The Impact of Alternative Schools on Student Outcomes

Abstract

This thesis will evaluate the outcomes of students who attend behavioral alternative schools against those who attend traditional public schools within the United States. Behavioral alternative schools are schools that serve students who have been unsuccessful in traditional public school environments and may have a history of low academic achievement coupled with various behavioral challenges. This thesis will analyze graduation rates based on the type of school students attended by comparing two different demographic areas with different levels of behavioral alternative school participation rates and then tracking student outcomes in these two areas. This thesis will also discuss how school districts are more likely to refer certain demographic groups, specifically male students of color, to alternative schools and the potential negative impact this referral pattern may have on these groups. This analysis will seek to inform those interested in attending alternative schools on their impact on student outcomes and will also inform school administrators and lawmakers on whether they should promote or discourage alternative school attendance.