Alternative Schools and Programs

We invest in students by recognizing their strengths and encouraging personal growth. Students may need educational and social-emotional opportunities outside a traditional school’s context and setting. We provide diverse offerings that allow students to learn within smaller environments that promote supportive relationships, positive social engagement, and positive academic skill building.

Board Policy 3470/4305: Alternative Learning Schools and Programs
Learn more about the purpose, transferring to alternative learning schools or programs, and transitioning from alternative learning schools or programs.

Contact Us
We welcome the opportunity to share information about alternative schools and programs. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us if you have questions.

• Phone: (919) 694-7664
• Email: AlternativeEducation@wcpss.net
• Address: 110 Corning Rd. Cary, NC 27512

Application Schools and Programs

Two middle schools, one high school, and one high school program serve students who wish to receive instruction in an environment that offers smaller settings, remediation, and supportive relationships with caring adults. All three schools support students in achieving credits for the next level and graduation.

• River Oaks Middle School
• Mount Vernon Middle School
• Mary Phillips High School
• SCORE - Program A

Application Process: Applications to Mt Vernon Middle School, River Oaks Middle School, and Mary Phillips High School are generated by staff (generally a counselor or intervention teacher) from a student’s base school. Parents interested in an alternative school application should contact their student’s counselor. 

Special Education Schools and Programs

One school and two programs serve students who have been identified or are in the process of identification for services provided through Special Education. Students seeking services in these programs must work through their IEP team at the base school. 

• Bridges Program
• Longview - combined middle and high school
• Selected Evening Programs

Application Process: Students access Longview and Bridges through a student’s IEP. Placement at Longview and Bridges may be one special education reevaluation process consideration. Parents who may have an interest in Longview or Bridges should contact their student's IEP case manager.

Alternative Learning Programs (ALP) for disciplinary reassignment

Middle or high school students may receive a disciplinary reassignment to an Alternative Learning Program (ALP) instead of a long-term suspension.

• SCORE - Program B
• Infinity High School Program
• Connections Academy Middle School

Application Process: The superintendent may impose a disciplinary reassignment for students who have engaged in violations of the WCPSS Code of Student Conduct and who have been recommended for long-term suspension. Parents may not directly seek placement at Connections Academy, Infinity, or SCORE Academy.