Educators for Quality Alternatives

Skip to main content

Our Approach

EQA Schools are the best kind of alternative schools-- our schools aren't here to punish or "fix" students; instead our schools are here to serve students.

At EQA Schools we believe that  if you haven't been successful in, or liked, school in the past, there isn't something wrong with you-- that school just wasn't a match for how you learn or what you need to thrive. 

EQA Schools incorporates the following components from nationally successful models in its design:

  • Small school and small classes
    • Each school is approximately 150 students; Class sizes average 5-15 students
  • Strong relationships with caring adults
    • Each EQA staff member is carefully chosen based on their experience and dedication to EQA students and mission
  • Restorative practices and a trauma-informed care community
  • Individual learning plans that address skill gaps
    • Every student at EQA has his or her own graduation plan which reflects goals, strengths, and growth areas.
  • High expectations for academic, behavior, and future success
    • At EQA we believe that even if you struggled in the past, you can be successful in school and beyond.
  • Authentically engaging, hands-on curricula
    • EQA classrooms use a variety of traditional, computer-based, and project-based instructional models. 
  • Multiple layers of social-emotional, behavioral, and academic support
    • EQA counselors, deans, and special education staff provide supports for all students.
  • Direct connection to students’ real-world futures
 
EQA Schools are affiliate schools of Big Picture Learning a national organization dedicated to putting students at the center.