Our program begins the moment a public school student is identified for placement in an alternative school and referred to us. Students are eligible if their school has already attempted to overcome disciplinary challenges, if the school district liaison has processed and approved the placement, and if the referral package has been received. Students can be assigned to an alternative school from five weeks to a full school year.

The first step is when representatives from A Friend of the Family, Inc. meet with a school district liaison to assess the student's individual strengths, weaknesses, and developmental needs. We schedule an "intake meeting" with the student, family, and other involved parties to review student performance, explain the goals and expectations of the program, and develop the student's strategy for success. Each unique success strategy is developed jointly by the student, the referring school district, and AFOF.

Once the program is underway, the student starts taking classes as scheduled, attending group and individual counseling sessions, and participating in regular progress reviews. The total program may also involve family intervention and support, through work with local organizations that can provide insight into aspects of parenting and providing proper educational support.

How we choose our teachers:
Prospective staff must exhibit a willingness to address the development needs of students and to help involve students and fellow staff members in the school's guiding "esprit de corps" philosophy. They must also of course comply with all applicable state standards.

Using family intervention and support, working with local organizations to provide insight in the aspects of parenting, providing and supporting a proper education, and age appropriate behavioral and academic performance are qualities necessary for successful student, family, and staff involvement