Comments by Sam229 - Las Vegas Sun

Comments by user: Sam229

lfricke outlines a thoughtful process for students in the "Discipline / Alternative "sector of K-12 public education. "Alternative" programs, to be effective, require that students get taining from trained professionals not just time out from the regular schools.$$$$ Labels must be more than the names of programs or locations. In Nevada there are legal provisions for comprehensive K-12 education, alternative education programs and under the 2000 18 TO 24 year old (individuals who have no secondary credential; high school diploma or GED) initiative, adult education( also provided in corrections) Seems that if we use provisions appropriatley students and the community will be better served. Funding is always diffcult.

(Suggest removal) 4/16/08 at 9:29 a.m.

Posted on: Expelled, but not out

The article raises some very serious issues. There is a fudamental right for every student under 18 (AB 212 2007 and SB 312 2007--- 22 if entitled to special education services )to a public education. There is a reasonable expectation for a safe environment for all students and staff on school campuses.
Students who do not follow rules, cause disruptions or may harm themselves or other students are not best served within the traditional school setting. A time out does not seem to be the solution. What is now provided by Behavior/ Continuation Schools is a time out. Then what ? Alternative placement/ alternative programs should be on the table as part of the discussion. Smaller class size and professionals working with the students in addtition to teachers involve more money.( Charter School format?) The cost factor should be balanced with the alternative of paying later-- more crowded prisons and / or many poorly educated adults in our community. The students in the article are not adults so adult programs are not appropriate until they are at least 18. There must be intervention for the students after time out to prevent loosing them altogether or allowing a tragic event that could have been prevented from happening. Providing an effective educational program as a place to go after the time out- alternative to what we are now providing could make the difference.

(Suggest removal) 4/15/08 at 9:13 p.m.