The intent of this brief overview is to define and describe alternative education, specifically as it applies to youth workforce development professionals who must provide it under Workforce Investment Act (WIA) requirements. The Brief begins by describing the types of youth who may attend alternative programs, including students with behavioral or academic problems, dropouts or potential dropouts, and gifted and talented students. Alternative education may be offered in a different location, it might use a different delivery system or educational model, or it might have a specialized curriculum. Alternative programs often demonstrate characteristic approaches to teaching and learning, school environment, and student support which are designed to meet youth needs that are not being met in the traditional school setting. For the purpose of meeting WIA performance measures, alternative education must result in: measurable gains in literacy and math skills; completion of a high school diploma or its equivalent; and successful transition to employment or postsecondary education or training. (Contains 3 charts and 16 references.) [ Produced by Center on Education and Training for Employment, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio]