Alternative High School Diploma Program Pueblo Community College (PCC), in collaboration with the Archuleta School District 50 JT (School District) and with the Archuleta County Education Center (ACEC), signed an agreement in June 2011 to establish an free alternative high school program that will continue to reduce the dropout rate for Archuleta School District 50 JT. It will increase the number of students who enter programs in higher education, or who successfully enter employment upon completion of their high school diploma. Through this collaboration, students who successfully complete all requirements will, for the first time, receive their diploma from Archuleta School District 50 JT. They will be able to participate in Pagosa Springs High School athletics and activities, and, if they choose,  participate in the Pagosa Springs High School GraduationCeremony, or a graduation ceremony hosted by PCC . While ACEC has offered an alternative high school program under an agreement with the School District since 1998, the program differs in a number of important ways. • First, the program will now be offered by PCC staff with all of the resources and experience the college has gained operating comparable programs in such communities as Pueblo and Canon City. • Second, the high school will add to an individualized approach, which has traditionally helped students with problems achieving academic success the advantage of the availability of college offerings and resources that will challenge those with the ability to take advanced work, including college- credit offerings. • Third, the more intensive collaboration with the School District will allow students to move easily between the two educational settings in accordance with their needs, and to receive their diploma from the School District. Parents who believe this environment might be the most effective one for their son or daughter, or independent students over the age of 17 but under the age of 21 who have not completed their high school diploma, should contact either the School District or  ACEC. For more information or to register, email jill.carithers@pueblocc.edu or sheri.figgs@pueblocc.edu   Copyright 2010 Archuleta County Education Center - All Rights Reserved “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.” Making a Difference            Call 970-264-2835 to get started today! Archuleta County Ed Center