What is the EDCO Youth Alternative?

• A program offering a supportive environment for students who are Boston residents.
• An education program devoted to working individually with students to help them grow and meet their education and post-graduation goals.
• A program that re-enrolls students in the Boston Public Schools.
• A program that provides small, competency-based, accredited classes in high school subjects [English, math, history, science, computer graphics (art), computer literacy, health] leading to a Boston Public School diploma.
• A program that provides students with supportive personal, school, and work counseling.

Students are scheduled into 5 daily classes (8:25-12:30) to meet their outstanding graduation requirements. Period 6 (12:45-1:30) is designed for tutoring and preparation for the MCAS. Our website offers a comprehensive view of various aspects of the program: http://www.edcoyouthalternative.com.

Counselors from Wediko Children's Services provide conflict resolution and crisis management services to help students focus on their schoolwork. The Higher Education Information Center offers college counseling including financial aid information to seniors and juniors, and the Boston PIC supplies job/career counseling.

The program is funded by the City of Boston, the Boston Public Schools, the Massachusetts Department of Social Services, and other sponsoring agencies.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
In order to attend EDCO, student must be eligible for one of the following four funding sources:

• WIA (Workforce Investment Act): Family income must meet federal poverty guidelines.
• The Alternative Education Initiative: No rigid income guidelines.
• Boston Juvenile Court: Students must have an open Child in Need of Services (CHINS) petition.

The comprehensive application process starts by calling the School Coordinator at 617-262-9562.