At my old school, the teacher had to deal with all the other kids. But here, they spend time with me.

Alternative Learning
Ombudsman provides students with an approach and an environment that are different from a traditional classroom setting. Students receive computer-assisted personalized instruction, individualized attention with a low student-to-instructor ratio and the freedom to work at their own pace.

Computer-Assisted Instruction
Ombudsman students receive computer-assisted instruction that allows them to work at their own speed and skill level.  At-risk middle and high school students are tested to determine their current skill level in each subject and work at exactly that skill level. Subjects and grade levels are customized for each student so that students can progress through each grade level based on their skills. Individualized computer-assisted instruction allows students to keep their progress private. They don’t worry about what their peers are doing or how they compare to others. While in the program, they can focus their attention on academic credit recovery, improved attendance and graduation.

Ombudsman provides computer-assisted instruction to middle and high school English language learners, as well. Programs are available for students who speak English as a second language (ESL).

Personalized Attention
Middle and high school students who have dropped out or are on the verge of dropping out of school often benefit from the one-on-one attention from Ombudsman. Instructors work with each at-risk student individually to determine his or her abilities, challenges and personal needs. Ombudsman instructors help students identify and overcome academic obstacles as well as family, personal and emotional issues that impact their success. At Ombudsman’s alternative program for at-risk students, each student is an individual who has the potential to graduate and succeed in life.

Ombudsman provides individualized plans to students with IEPs, as determined by their referring school district.

Areas of Instruction
Ombudsman provides accredited instruction in seven specific areas:

• Essential skills, such as reading, writing and math
• Science, including biology, chemistry and physics
• Social studies and citizenship
• Personal finance, consumer education and social skills development
• Health and recreation, including first aid and nutrition
• Aesthetics, which includes art appreciation and personal responsibility
• College and career preparation, including career opportunities and job skills

Success Defined
Ombudsman students have big plans for their futures. While 100 percent of Ombudsman students are considered at-risk before entering the program, 85 percent achieve success in the program. After graduating, they make plans to continue their education, join the workforce or the military, or care for a family.

For information about programs in your state, please click on your state on the Locations page.