High School / Welcome

Ms. Sharon Bean, Grades 9 & 10

The High School Alternative Education Program

All students enrolled in Loudoun County Public High Schools are eligible to attend the Douglass School’s AEP program. An application process is required and applications can be picked up from the student’s home school guidance counselor. Students take three classes at a time for nine weeks which is a modified block scheduling arrangement. At the end of nine weeks, they have completed a semester’s worth of work in those three courses. The classes run on this schedule for the entire year and at the end of a year at Douglass, students will have earned six credits towards a diploma. The block scheduling format plus smaller class sizes of approximately 12 to 15 students per class offers an alternative way to succeed in school. This voluntary program currently serves over 120 students who come from all areas of Loudoun County. The instructional program follows the Loudoun County Public Schools course content and requirements and students earn a regular high school diploma. They must earn 22 standard credits by passing 22 credit bearing classes. Six of these classes must be courses where verified credits can be earned by passing SOL exams. Elective classes are offered at Douglass in the business area and in Art. Additional electives are also available in the core content areas such as Psychology and Drama. The high school counselor’s role is to assist the students in program planning, social and emotional counseling, and career and college guidance. Assistance with study skills, time management, and decision making is also offered. Small groups are available for students that may desire assistance in particular areas.