CHANCE Program

by Anne Chappell

CHANCE Program Overview:

CHANCE Program is an Alternative Program which the Fairbury Public School District has set up to educate students who have not been successful in the regular schools. The purpose of the program is to help students develop the skills and behaviors necessary to succeed in school and in life.

All the policies and rules that run the other district schools will apply to those students who attend CHANCE. There are also some policies/rules that only apply to those attending CHANCE. These policies/rules can be modified based on a student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Accommodation Plan.

Philosophy:

All students have a right to a free appropriate education and when offered the appropriate setting, can experience educational success. The traditional educational model does not provide the right environment for some students. The curriculum in the CHANCE Program will be individualized for the students, as well as, meet State and District standards. All educational planning will be facilitated with the support and cooperation of the student, family, community, and educational staff.

Referral Process:

Placement at the CHANCE Program is determined by the administrators, general education teachers, CHANCE staff, the student, parents, and/or IEP team members.

Before a student may enter the CHANCE Program, the appropriate referral process must be completed. The referral process includes:

1) a referral from an administrator, teacher, or guidance counselor;

2) the student must complete an informational packet and self-assessment;

3) the student will go through an interview with their principal, Student Services director, and the staff of the CHANCE Program;

4) and a parent questionnaire will need to be completed.

After this process has been completed, the student’s IEP team will decide if CHANCE is the most appropriate placement for the student.

What are the expected outcomes?

*Increased proficiency in basic skills

*Career/Vocational exploration

*Conflict resolution

*Appropriate career choices

*Increased self-confidence