Students describe paths to graduation at Orchard and Monroe Virtual programs

Orchard Center High School and Monroe Virtual High School students and staff presented program highlights to the Monroe Public Schools Board of Education on Dec. 10, describing alternatives to the traditional high-school experience and pathways into careers and college.

Superintendent Shaw introduced the group and praised staff leadership. James Drew, who led the presentation, framed the schools’ mission as providing “alternative routes to education for the students of Monroe” and described efforts to build meaningful learning experiences and postsecondary plans. He told the board the schools are working to integrate virtual students into in-person activities and expand opportunities for co-op and dual-enrollment programs.

Students gave firsthand accounts of how the programs helped them. Madison said she is “currently a co-op student working at Hometown Pharmacy and I have started working towards my pharmacy technician license,” describing an explicit pathway from school placement to a vocational credential. Maisy said the smaller environment and staff support changed her outlook: “I finally feel like I'm part of one big family; I never thought I would graduate but now here I am.” The presentation also highlighted student participation in community service (a grocery giveaway and Christmas card deliveries to a local nursing home) and PBIS-based incentives to reinforce attendance and behavior.

Courtney, who oversees the virtual program, explained the district’s longstanding virtual offerings and efforts to bring students back into campus life for CTE and co-op opportunities. Board members welcomed the report, asked about expulsions and graduation outcomes, and noted that the district is pursuing a grant to expand transition supports into college and career pathways.