Open Doors is a dropout re-engagement system that provides education and services to older youth, ages 16 to 21, who have dropped out of school or are not expected to graduate from high school by the age of 21. The Heights Campus Open Doors program uses the same online platforms as VLA students.

  • Students must be 16 or older
  • Credit-deficient or at risk of not graduating
  • Students work toward high school diplomas
  • Receive credit through online classes and credit-recovery programs

FAQ

The mission of Open Doors is to support disengaged students by developing positive relationships that foster education, empowerment, and a plan for employment.

Typically, Open Doors students are juniors or seniors who have completed fewer than 12 credits.   Teachers are also encouraged to recommend students to Open Doors that they feel would benefit from re-engagement services.

There are many reasons students might be behind in credits, including health issues, anxiety, depression, homelessness, family struggles, having to work to support the family, etc.

Students come to school for a minimum of two hours each week, and are invited to attend additional hours as possible. Students choose a specific session to attend on a regular basis, but can reschedule if needed. The lab is open Monday through Thursday, from 9:am to 3:pm, and we are open through lunch.

In addition to the online classes, students can access mental health services, drug and alcohol counseling, and the Family Community Resource Center. The FCRC provides students with food, school supplies, hygiene products, and clothing as needed.

We do our best to help students find a path that works for them, whether that be a high school diploma, or transition to work. Most students start out taking an elective class called the Open Doors Project. This class allows students to learn more about the skills they will need to have to be a successful adult, including finances, job skills, and independent living skills.