The program uses two boat crews to take the program to families at fish camps, as well as a bookmobile to reach town residents. The program serves 80 to 85 students each year. The dropout rate for district high school students declined from 13.3 percent in 1996 to 7.5 percent in 1999. Beginning in ninth grade, students spend two days a week with a mentor at a workplace. The student, mentor, and teacher collaborate to develop interdisciplinary projects that emphasize building and using knowledge.
Students also can take free college courses to gain certification in specific interest areas.
Met students improved math and reading skills two grade levels during one school year. Daily attendance averages 95 percent, compared with 72 percent in other Providence schools. This rigorous, five-year plan includes a goal for all students to read at grade level before entering the third grade, and includes daily reading and benchmarks with specific, statewide student performance objectives for each grade level. The program also combines the efforts of parents and the business community to encourage reading among youth. This collaborative effort aims to provide high school students with a second chance to successfully earn a diploma in a supportive alternative learning environment.