Each either dropped out, or was told by school administrators they were academic failures. Those evaluations were correct. Those schools were failing those students.

“One size fits all” is sometimes humorous, sometimes critical – because we know the opposite is true. We’re all different – especially as learners. It’s true for many of our children besides the Albert Einsteins.

Those with good homes and no homes. Children of over-privilege and children of poverty. In fact, the experts tell us no high school should have more than 650 students, whether traditional or alternative.

Our high schools are perhaps the best traditional high schools in the state of Iowa. So it’s no criticism to say they don’t work for every student. No conventional high school could.

Americans know their communities benefit when every student gets a quality education. That’s why “alternative high schools” are being built.

Smaller schools with smaller classes; where every student feels a sense of belonging and respect; where cliques don’t happen and learning does.

That’s why our creative school board, administration, teachers, parents and community leaders are supporting the school bond proposal for an expanded alternative high school program.

Not all alternative high school students grow up to become Albert Einstein. But imagine what he could have become with proper schooling!

The letter writer expressing “Coralville pride” is misinformed about alternative education.

I taught at Metro High School, an alternative school in Cedar Rapids, for 24 years. It was a great teaching experience. Why? The students.

The students chose to be there for many reasons. Some did have discipline problems – at their previous schools. But it was difficult to say which students because, once they got to Metro, they usually felt little need to “act out.”

There are few fights at Metro; sometimes none during an entire term or two. There is no graffiti on the walls. There’s an atmosphere of respect and acceptance of all.

The school and its students are welcomed by the neighborhood and community. Why?

Students and staff have helped clean the yards of neighbors and the elderly. They have registered voters and got out the vote.

They have lobbied the legislature and delivered meals on wheels.

The clown troupe has entertained in hospitals and parades.

The theater group works cooperatively with a local gallery and theater space.
 

Its students also handle all the recycling for the Cedar Rapids school district.

I could go on, but I hope this is enough to make the point. An alternative school is truly a part of “Cedar Rapids pride,” could have been for Coralville, and will be for the Iowa City Community School District.