A major expansion for the Valparaiso Community Schools (VCS) alternative high school, known as the Valparaiso Alternative Learning Experience (VALE) has begun. The project involves renovating existing buildings on the VALE campus near U.S. 30, updating the exterior by removing a 1950s-era canopy, and enhancing educational spaces.
The alternative school will be different than many other high schools in the region. This program offers smaller class sizes and more one-on-one assistance to support student learning. Students will have opportunities to participate in field trips, community service, and Challenge Education courses, with a strong focus on social and emotional development as well as life and job skills. Online classes will also be available.
The school will be smaller and located at a different site from VHS, creating a more personalized learning environment. Students can still participate in sports and attend events at VHS. Each day, students will spend half of their time attending VHS, a vocational program, or working at a job to earn credits.
Students will have the opportunity to earn credits at their own pace in a supportive environment that addresses academic, social, and emotional concerns. The program is designed to support students experiencing motivational challenges or issues related to trauma, while also providing assistance with employment. It offers guidance for students with special education needs and helps families navigate challenges that may impact a student’s success. Through this support, students can work toward obtaining a VHS diploma.
VALE students must first be enrolled at VHS before entering the program. Students and parents are required to meet with their school counselor and complete an application. They must also attend a conference with the VALE principal and/or a school counselor prior to acceptance. Busing is provided to and from VHS for students participating in the program.
The project, referred to as the “Vale Renovation & Addition,” involves significant improvements to the 653 Hayes Leonard Rd. facility, including a new addition. Online learning is taking place now.
There are four other Alternative Education Schools in Northwest Indiana:
Options New Vistas High School (Portage): A public charter school (grades 6-12) offering a student-first environment for residents, part of the Options Schools network.
Eagle Park School (Crown Point): Part of the Northwest Indiana Special Education Cooperative (NISEC), specializing in supporting students with emotional/developmental needs.
New Horizons Alternative Program (East Porter County): Provides an alternative, flexible curriculum, according to East Porter County School Corporation.
Selah Academy (Regional): Offers blended online/classroom instruction and GED preparation in Lake and LaPorte counties, notes selahacademyinc.com
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