Troubled students returning to campus

WESTFALL — At least 20 expelled Delaware Valley High School students will be given the opportunity to attend an alternative education program this school year, Superintendent Dr. Candis Finan said at the Aug. 21 board meeting. The program, which will take place on weekdays after school from 4-7 p.m., will replace home-bound instruction for those who can attend. Instead of receiving five hours of schooling per week from a home-bound tutor, these students will receive 15 hours per week in five areas of study: science, math, English, social studies and health. Certified teachers will each teach their course one day per week, and administrator Mark McElroy and a special education teacher will both be present. The courses will be entirely computer-based and taught through Florida Virtual School Resources, an online program. Home-bound instruction will still be offered to students who are unable to attend. Currently, says Finan, the district pays about $7,000 per student in the regular education program. Expelled students who participate in the alternative education program cost approximately $2,000, more than 50% less. The latter is also less expensive than home-bound teacher instruction. Nonetheless, students must provide their own transportation to the Delaware Valley Middle School for classes, something 2005 graduate Alex Lotorto considered unjust. “The cost per student in the district is over $7,000 and for expelled students it’s less than $3,000, so there’s a gap,” he explained. “There’s a gap and enough money to be spent [on transportation.] The board recognizes that home-bound does not work as well as this alternative ed program, so if we’re already providing something that they recognize as an unequal education, they should at least make it free.” Yet, board solicitor Michael Weinstein said taxpayers continue to pay the transportation cost for expelled students, and Lortorto’s suggestion would mean paying twice. “The seat on the bus is still being paid for even after the student is expelled,” Weinstein said. While some students may not find the necessary transportation, both Finan and director of technology Gina Vives said they’re confident the alternative ed program will be successful and valuable. The program is currently ready to be piloted. In other business before the board In the wake of the earlier announcement about the increased rates of pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases among students, the health curriculum in grades K-12 district-wide has been revamped. Elementary schoolers will now study age-appropriate material about preventing diseases, maintaining a healthy immune system and proper hygiene, and resisting negative peer pressure. Middle school health students also will learn about healthy adolescent choices, the reproductive system and STDs. In the high school, every grade level will study a unit on sexually transmitted diseases, adolescent brain development and CPR. In addition, an elective course will be available this school year to DVHS students. The class, called Aspire, provides material on self-control and resisting peer pressure.