(401) 941-8353

ALP Grades 6-12

The Alternative Learning Program Upper School for Middle & High School Students

West Bay Collaborative ALP Upper School is an alternative learning program that serves students with academic, social/emotional, and behavioral needs from grades 6 through 12. The Upper School allows students to engage in personalized learning in a responsive and supportive environment that celebrates student successes. The program supports both short and long-term academic placements.

Our small school campus allows us to provide intensive support to all students in a small, structured classroom environment. Students also receive specialized instruction that is provided by a certified special education teacher consisting of small group and 1:1 sessions as needed. School-based social/emotional and behavioral supports are provided to all students, lead by our School Social Worker and supported by our behavior specialists. Students meet in small groups with the school social worker to address SEL needs.  Our blended learning approach enables students to engage in direct instruction as well as online learning experiences aligned to the Rhode Island Common Core State Standards.

Students work toward their high school diploma, which derives from their home school. Students work with their English teacher/mentor to outline graduation project requirements.  Once completed, students invite their home district and parents to present to a team for a grade.

Students are provided opportunities to:

  • Receive marketable certifications based on individual interests
  • Engage in pre-employment services with a career specialist
  • Obtain part-time employment while in high school
  • Explore vocational training programs
  • Tour local businesses/colleges/universities
  • Take dual enrollment courses at local universities
  • Engage in community initiatives

West Bay ALP Upper School is tailored to meet the specific individual needs of every student.  Each staff member attends weekly professional development sessions with experts in their field.

Academics

  • Students are grouped homogeneously to the extent possible taking into account grade level, abilities and challenges.
  • Classes are small; students receive 1:1 instruction based on individual needs.
  • Curriculum reflects the RI Common Core State Standards, and parallels districts’ requirements for graduation.
  • Students graduate with a district diploma.
  • Students who have completed most of their graduation requirements may enroll at CCRI and begin college level work while still at West Bay.
  • Instruction is inter-disciplinary, with teachers across the subject areas teaching to a common theme, and utilizing hands-on and active learning methods.
  • Students have access to state-of-the-art technology, including 1:1 Chromebooks as well as ClearTouch screens in all classrooms.

WBC Upper School Staff

The staff at the West Bay Collaborative consists of the following:

  • Program Administrator
  • Administrative Assistant/Director of Special Education
  • School Social Worker
  • Career and Employment Specialist
  • Chief Behavior Specialist
  • Behavior Specialists/Teacher Assistants
  • RI Department of Education Certified Teachers in:
    • English Language Arts
    • Science
    • Math
    • History
    • Special Education/ESL
    • Physical Education/Health Education

In collaboration with state agencies, community partners and local post-secondary programs, students in our school participate in individually focused and coordinated activities regarding: 

  • Post-secondary education
  • Vocational education
  • Employment
  • Community engagement
  • Independent living

Students participate in:

  • Career exploration
  • Development of employment skills
  • Development of independent living skills
  • Community-based learning experiences

Testimonials

I’d like to say how wonderful all the staff is and how much you helped my son grow and believe in himself. You all go above and beyond for my son.

Parent of Upper School Student

Testimonials

I was a student at West Bay for 3.5 years.  The first few months I was on the honor roll and then I decided to become lazy. That’s when the staff and teachers really put hard work in and wanted me to succeed. Some kids go to West Bay because they misbehave but some also go for the smaller group setting. Some kids have social anxiety as do I. The teachers there are very attentive to student’s needs and will help them succeed but the student does have to pitch in a bit.

Upper School Student

Testimonials

West Bay Collaborative is a place that adapts to the way you learn – there’s always someone to back you at every step.  It’s like a second family.

Upper School Student

Testimonials

The school is pretty cool.  I changed myself, but the staff gave me a lot of information and helped me.

Upper School Student

Upper School Contact Information

 

April Seppala
Director of Special Education & Program Administrator for the Upper School
Phone: (401) 734-3442
Cell: (401) 261-2340
Email me

Brian Johnson
Chief Behavior Specialist

Cell: (401) 559-9701
Email me

Welcome to West Bay Collaborative Upper School

Here, you’ll find news for students, parents, and community members about the Upper School and its innovative programming.

Main Office
Transition & Vocational Services
Professional Development

144 Bignall Street
Warwick, RI 02888

Phone: (401) 941-8353
Fax: (401) 941-8535

Hours: Monday - Friday
9:00am - 4:30pm

Alternative Learning Program
Grades K-6

1196 Park Avenue
Cranston, RI 02910

Phone: (401) 270-8588
Fax: (401) 270-8429

Hours: Monday-Friday
9:00am - 3:00pm;
Wednesdays
9:00am - 12:45pm 

Alternative Learning Program
Grades 6-12

51 Draper Avenue
Warwick, RI 02889

Phone: (401) 734-3440
Fax: (401) 734-3443

Hours: Monday-Friday
8:00am - 2:00pm;
Wednesdays
8:00am - 12:00pm