masthead
Harbor Alternative
harbor mural
2011-12 Quick Facts
Principal Joel Schutte
Students TBA
Staff TBA
1301 1st Ave. N
Altoona, IA 50009
Phone: 515-957-8811
Fax: 515-957-8823
Staff Contact Information
Pay School Fees
Time Schedule
Doors Open 7:30
School Starts 8:00
Open Lunch 11:40 - 12:20
Dismissal 2:45
Photo Galleries
Harbor Visits Mitchellville Elementary
Open House
Links
elschools.org
Expeditionary Learning
FERPA pdf
Google Apps for Students
Outward Bound
Schedule by Class Period
Harbor Alternative is an Expeditionary Learning Outward Bound program serving students from Southeast Polk School District. Our program emphasizes academics, service learning and building a positive community atmosphere. Students earn credit by successfully completing regular courses, correspondence courses and learning expeditions. Learning expeditions are courses of study that include fieldwork and service in the community. Student empowerment is a strong focus. Students at the Harbor write our mission statement, belief statements and community code. Students are expected to take leadership roles, perform service in the community and be accountable for their actions. Our educational philosophy is:

You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself
Any direction you choose.

from Dr. Seuss's Oh, The Places You'll Go!

Students work with local business and civic groups and are involved with service at Animal Rescue League, Habitat for Humanity, Thomas Mitchell Park and elementary special education and art programs. Alternative students come in all types and temperaments. Some are athletes, dancers, artists, scholars, musicians and outdoor lovers. Some score above grade level and some below. Some have never been in trouble at school or in the community; some are working hard to make amends for past choices. Some have life circumstances so difficult that school success was put on hold. All desire to earn a high school diploma and have enrolled in alternative school to take advantage of another opportunity to succeed. Our staff works hard to provide learning experiences which will challenge and support students.

Harbor staff members are expected to be outstanding role models for young people. We stress healthy relationships and choices. The small alternative setting provides for close, caring relationships between students and staff, and also allows staff to be vigilant in maintaining high expectations for each student. Students and staff are involved in crew time each day. Crews focus on community-building, conflict resolution, and designing group projects. This helps maintain a positive, respectful school environment. Families, businesses, agencies, and community members are regular, active participants in learning expeditions as well as audiences for performances and projects created through expeditions. Regular contact and collaboration is an integral part of Harbor. Students and staff share a vision and work hard to achieve it.