Thats how many students have earned diplomas through the program run by Alternatives Unlimited Inc., which received $4.8 million from the state during that time. The Drop Back In Academies got $4,500 for each of the more than 1,000 students enrolled.
About 700 students quit outright, prompting some board members to question whether that money could be better spent on another program.
He said he planned to make the recommendation at Thursday boards meeting.
Nichols, and some on the board, said there is not enough time between now and the beginning of the school year in August to get another companys program running.
Carla McNeal, director of the Drop Back In Academies, said she doesnt know of any other companies that run similar programs.
I think we should be given an opportunity to make good on the services we have promised to provide to the county, she said.
Drop Back In program targets high school dropouts
The academies, in locations scattered throughout the county, then enroll the dropouts in a program that provides access to certified teachers and computer labs, allowing the students to earn credits online.
Nichols pointed out that thats less money than the more than $8,000 that Mobile County spends per student, when federal and local funds are added in. And these dropouts are tough students to keep in any sort of program.
Board member Judy Stout said numerous students have benefited from the program, and that determining its value is more complicated than simply dividing the number of dollars by the number of diplomas.
He and others said that even if the position is advertised, Alternatives Unlimited could still reapply.
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