Evaluation of an “Alternative” School in South Georgia: Does It Improve Grades, Behavior, and Attendance?

Abstract

Using both quantitative and qualitative analyses, an evaluation of Westside Performance Learning Center (PLC) was completed. The central research question was, “Do students enrolled in the PLC experience a positive change in grades, behavior, and attendance?” T-tests comparing the conventional school and the PLC indicated that there was a statistically significant improvement in grades and behavior. Additionally, a focus group conducted with a sample of students at the PLC indicated that program structure, students’ relationships with faculty/staff, and general school environment had a positive impact on grades, behavior, and attendance. We also considered the effects of mentoring and incentives on the students. Recommendations for program improvement were also discussed.

Keywords

• South Georgia
• Alternative school
• Grades
• Behavior
• Attendance