IU1 Educational Campus Recognized as Model Program in PA

The Alternative Education Program at the Intermediate Unit 1 Educational Campus at Colonial was recognized as a model program in the state of Pennsylvania at the annual Alternative Education Conference in April 2004. IU1's program, along with nine other alternative education programs were recognized for exemplary components that made these schools model programs.

Ms. Nancy Avolese presented the certificate of best practices in alternative education on behalf of Vicki Phillips, Secretary of Education, to Ms. Linda Chernitsky, Principal. The alternative education program was recognized for its creativity and ingenuity in helping students achieve success. A strong counseling component program offered by three social workers is a unique feature of the program.

Approximately five years ago, Intermediate Unit 1 and the six Fayette County School Districts formed a consortium to meet the need for an alternative education program in Fayette County. The Alternative Education Program services regular education and special needs students in grades 7 - 12 from the following districts: Albert Gallatin, Brownsville, Connellsville, Frazier, Laurel Highlands, and Uniontown.