The purpose of the Area Learning Center is to provide services to students who were experiencing obstacles to their academic success in the regular school setting by offering an alternative curriculum that is academically challenging and meaningful, in an environment that addresses the students' individual academic and social/emotional needs.

The ALC serves students from a number of different school districts. Students have a choice of working toward a diploma from their home district or from Dassel-Cokato High School. A learning plan is developed for each student to ensure that credits are completed according to the requirements of their district.

In order to enroll, a student must have verification from their home school district that he/she qualifies in at least one of the areas required by the Minnesota Department of Education.

ALC Programs

The work experience program provides an ideal way for students to earn elective credit. Students who are enrolled in either day or nights are eligible to participate. In order to receive credit for the work program, students must also complete "Work Seminar," which is offered during the day program and on an independent study basis for night school students.

Any combination of the options listed above allows a student, parents and ALC staff to develop a program that best meets the needs of each individual student.