The Missouri Options Program 2011-2012
What is the Missouri Option Program?
The Missouri Option Program is designed to target students who have the capabilities to complete Missouri High School Graduation Requirements, but for a variety of reasons lack the credits needed to graduate with their class and are at risk of leaving school without a high school diploma. The program specifically, targets those students who are seniors, 17 years of age or older and are at least one year behind their cohort group (6+ credits) or for other significant reasons identified in the local Missouri Option Program plan.
Note: For the Missouri Option Program, cohort is defined as when a student started kindergarten, not high school.
How does the Missouri Option Program benefit a student?
Students in the Missouri Option Program will be provided guidance and counseling services consistent with the high school program. Ongoing academic/career advisement will be provided by the Missouri Option Program instructor(s), with supplemental guidance and counseling provided, as needed. Students will have access to all educational programs and services available in the school district, have the opportunity to stay in school, receive valuable academic and life-skills instruction, earn a High School diploma, and have the option of taking part in a seperate commencement ceremony.
Missouri Options is a voluntary program. Students who meet the criteria must apply for the program through their guidance counslor. If the student is not enrolled in the district, the student must enroll in the LPS district and be assigned a home high school and counslor. The counslor will then have a conversation about the students desire and eligibilty to be part of this program. The counslor will then submit a referral to the Missouri Options Coordinator if the student meets all criteria.
The following are the requirements and criteria for the program-
• completion of American Government
• completion of both the Missouri Constitution and US Constitution Tests
• completion of Personal Finance
• completion of Health
• completion of ALL required End of Course Exams (EOC) Algebra 1. Biology, American Government, and English 10
• Must maintain Full-Time Status (30 hours per week) by being in class for GED instruction for no less than 15 hours per week for at least 8 weeks or until the program is completed. Provide documentation of employment or community service/ non-profit volunteer work 15 hours per week every week or two weeks.
• Pass all subject areas of the GED Tests
• Complete a senior portfolio, a senior presentation and career /college enrichment activities
What are some common misconceptions about the Missouri Option Program?
The Missouri Option Program is NOT an "early out" program or "easy out" alternative. Schools that attempt to use it for these purposes will be disqualified. It is specifically intended to meet the needs of students who are credit-deficient (for whatever reasons), but who otherwise could be expected to meet regular graduation requirements. This program is NOT just intended to prepare students for the GED Test; it must provide substantive academic content aligned with the school's regular curriculum and expectations. Students must attend school regularly and have access to the kind of counseling and support services that are available to all students.
If you would like more information about this program please contact:
Michelle Howren- Missouri Options Coordinator/Lead Instructor
816-736-5322
mhowren@liberty.k12.mo.us
