Alternative Instructional Model
In the Williamsville Central School District we understand that one size does not fit all. Our Alternative Instructional Model (AIM) Program is available for students enrolled in grades 10-12, providing an alternative learning environment for students who have not experienced success in a conventional high school setting. For more than 30 years, AIM has provided students with a unique learning environment designed to facilitate the development of positive attitudes toward self, school, and community. With a small student to teacher ratio, targeted academic support, and a dedicated counselor, students enrolled in the AIM program are nurtured to thrive both socially and academically. Regents Classes and a small selection of elective classes are provided at at AIM, which is located on the Williamsville North High School campus.
The AIM culture is one that emphasizes participation, respect, caring, and trust, enhanced by the reduced teacher-to-student ratios.
Supports include:
- Increased student-teacher contact
- Increased student-counselor contact
- Flexibility in scheduling
- Participation in the courses at Williamsville North when applicable
- Varied instructional strategies
- Community experiences
Students at AIM must be able to work independently and demonstrate a solid commitment to completing the coursework leading to attainment of their high school Regents Diploma. Students in the AIM Program may return to their home school or continue at AIM to complete their high school education.
Students
Students from each of the District’s three high schools (North, South and East) attend AIM. However, since the AIM Building is located on the North High campus, AIM students and staff are more involved with the daily activities of the North High School community. For example, AIM students use the North cafeteria, library, and physical education facilities. Also, many AIM students take elective courses at North.
Students apply to AIM when the home school counselor and administration, and parents, as well as the student, agree that a more individualized program of study would benefit the student. Most students who apply to AIM are lacking one or more credits for their grade level and/or they currently have some failing grades. When students make the decision to attend AIM, they know that their parents, home school and the AIM staff support the decision. Since AIM is a program, not a school, students remain members of their home schools and they are eligible to participate in interscholastic athletics and extracurricular activities.
The AIM Program has a staff of four teachers, one counselor, one secretary, one teacher aide, and a part-time social worker.