This newsletter reports the growth of alternative schools from 1973 when 464 alternative public schools in 36 states were identified to 1975 when 1,250 such schools can be listed. Charts illustrate the growth distributed by states. The reasons for growth are presented as publications, professional recommendations, accreditation procedures, state…

Looks at the free school movement within and outside the realm of public education. Presents an historical perspective on the radical private free school movement evidence suggesting that the development of educational options within the public school system has come from within the system. (DN)

The Indiana University Alternative School Training Program is new, but it has already demonstrated that new procedures for teacher preparation can be derived that can relate to the growing demand for alternative school teachers. (Author)

Developments of alternative schools are reviwed, emphasizing differences in five types of public school options and the similarities of these types in respect to their social education programs. (Author/KM)

The Alternative Schools movement has succeeded in implementing many changes sought by social studies educators and are characterized by: (1) Decision Making, (2) Community Based Learning Experiences, (3) Social Activism, (4) Personal Growth, (5) Inter-Cultural Learning. (JB)

Makes a case for magnet schools, especially as part of desegregation efforts. Briefly describes magnet schools around the country and some of their problems. (JM)

Six alternative school programs are evaluated to provide additional insight into their effectiveness in (1) promoting cognitive achievement, (2) developing positive student attitudes and self-concepts, (3) developing positive behavior change, and (4) providing long-term benefits to the students. (MJB)

In the early 1970s, pessimism about public education in the United States was on the rise. To counter this outlook, researchers held a conference to identify public schools that were humane, caring, and effective, and from this conference arose a heightened awareness of alternative schools and their place in education. Subsequent years of…

A primer on alternative schools. Described are existing programs in different areas, philosophy of the alternative schools, funding, student behavior, community relations, accountability, State regulations, management, and the environment of the alternative school. A list of sources of additional information on alternative schools is included.…

Discusses the possibilities of meeting educational goals: the transition to adulthood; provisions for experiential learning; community involvement in education; providing alternatives to traditional schools; improvement of instructional materials; respect for students' rights and individual identities; and providing new approaches to teacher…

The Alternative School Teacher Education Program, cooperatively developed by participating public schools and Indiana University, is a field-based masters degree program designed for completion in one calendar year. Students spend two summers on campus pursuing graduate course work. During the academic year between these summers, students earn…

Reviews the contributions of alternative schools to public education over the past decade and predicts diversity and success for the movement in the 1980s. (WD)