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Students describe peer support and career-pathway experiences at Edwardsburg Alternative Learning Center
Summary
Students and staff from the Alternative Learning Center told the board about a new student advisory team, career-pathway trips (including welding and automotive exposure), Spirit Mix and attendance incentives, and peer-support structures that students say help them re-engage academically and socially.
Students from the Edwardsburg Alternative Learning Center (ALC) and ALC staff presented a summary of this year's activities, highlighting student-led supports and career-readiness experiences.
One student described initial anxiety on arrival at the ALC and said the program helped her "get back on track and be able to graduate on time." Students explained the student advisory team's role in peer support, helping new or struggling students navigate the schedule and communicate concerns to staff. The advisory team also plans community and culture-building events and helps with leadership opportunities that can go on college resumes.
Students described recent field experiences: a visit to an SNC/SMC campus that introduced automotive, welding and CAD experiences (including a welding simulator) and other hands-on sessions; a career expo at the Michiana Event Center; and plans to attend Michigan Career Quest and a junior day at SMC later in the spring. Staff noted a new emphasis on connecting ALC students to career pathways and building bridges with the primary and high school communities.
ALC staff also described incentives (Spirit Mix, class parties and dodgeball Fridays) used to improve attendance and engagement. The board acknowledged the student presentations and thanked the presenters for sharing their experiences.
