ALE Program

STATE-FUNDED SUPPORT FOR HOME LEARNING

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ALE stands for “Alternative Learning Experience.”

ALE is an optional program for K-8 students. It allows Village Learning to access state funding on your behalf to directly support your child’s education, while you remain the primary educator at home.

Participation requires very little change for families and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Added Benefits

  • State funding for:

    • Learning classes and supplies

    • Instrument rental, materials, and music

    • Curriculum requests to be added to our library, which can then be borrowed by parents (religious curriculum plus most online programs and accredited courses are not covered)

    • Field trips and parties

    • Outdoor equipment

    • Location maintenance

    • Paid teaching & staff positions

  • Priority class selection

  • Optional access to yearly comparative testing

  • Reduced PreK program fees for younger siblings

  • Home learning support and basic mentoring

The ALE program is managed through OSPI. It is subject to certain state and federal laws, as well as any changes made by the participating district. Village Learning works to keep the program as flexible and parent-directed as possible and will communicate clearly about any changes that may occur.

Enrollment Process

  • 1. Student Registration

    With help from our administration team, your student is registered through a local school district. Village Learning remains your main contact for all educational needs. The school district will rarely, if ever, contact you directly.

  • 2. Develop a Learning Plan

    A parent meets with our ALE/Curriculum Specialist to develop a simple yearly learning plan. This plan is based on home learning and Village participation. It provides a starting framework and can be adjusted throughout the year.

  • 3. Curriculum Guidance

    During this meeting, you can get advice on curriculum and see what materials are available to borrow or request. We can guide you and suggest options if you’re unsure what to try. Curriculum can be changed as needed.

  • 4. Weekly Progress Updates

    Each week, you send Village a few sentences from your student(s) describing what they learned.

  • 5. Monthly Progress Check

    Each month, you sign a simple form confirming that, as a home learning parent, you feel your student has made adequate progress.

  • 6. Ongoing Mentoring

    Mentoring and guidance are available anytime if you need support with home learning. Adjustments can be made to fit your child’s needs.

  • 7. Leaving the Program

    You may leave the ALE program at any time. If it’s not meeting your needs, or if we find our program is not the best fit for you, we can help you explore other options to finish out the year.

  • 8. Summer Review & Re-Enrollment

    Over the summer, our administration team reviews our student roster and decides who will be accepted into the ALE program for the next year. Spots are not guaranteed, although we always hope there will be room for all families who are supportive and active members of our Village community.

Contact Our Team

FAQs

  • Our program requires each student to commit to at least 2 learning classes, with parent participation.

    The ALE program requires weekly contact to meet state truancy laws.

  • Dual enrollment is not permitted. Students enrolled in an accredited program or currently receiving IEP or 504 services may not be eligible. Families in either situation are encouraged to speak with administration to discuss possible options.