Orchard and Monroe Virtual students tell board how alternative programs helped them graduate on new pathways

Superintendent Shaw introduced a group of students and staff from Orchard Center High School and Monroe Virtual High School who told the board how alternative-program flexibility and community partnerships have helped them stay on track to graduate.

James Drew, an Orchard staff member who led the presentation, described the schools' purpose: "Our mission is to provide alternative routes or routes to education for the students of Monroe by creating meaningful learning experiences and helping them develop into productive citizens with a solid post secondary plan." Staff said the combined program aims to preserve opportunity and expand access to CTE, dual enrollment and athletics for students not thriving in a traditional high school.

Ashley Julius, the district's "positive school climate liaison / post secondary planner," said staff have organized local experiences to connect students with the broader community: "We've seen different historical sites like the Woodland Cemetery where General George Custer is buried. We went to the water treatment plant... and we are just trying to make connections." Julius also described PBIS incentives and volunteer programs that she said have improved school culture.

Students gave first-person accounts of how the programs helped them persist. Madison Falls said she moved to the virtual program after a difficult start at a traditional high school and is now working toward a pharmacy-technical credential while pursuing an early graduation plan. Deshira Overstreet said Orchard offered classes that sparked interest in architecture and real-estate studies and helped her refocus on graduation. Josiah Mincey, who began online school in middle school to balance family responsibilities, told the board he appreciated the flexibility and the chance to join on-site programs and field experiences.

Board members praised the presentation and highlighted growing opportunities: one member noted reduced expulsions this semester and members encouraged the public to attend the Orchard graduation. The district said the presentation reflected ongoing efforts to increase equity and provide pathways for students across the county.