ISHPEMING — The Ishpeming-Negaunee-NICE Community Education Division will offer an alternative high school completion program for students who, for whatever reason, need an option other than the traditional high school.

Under the direction of Director William Hartman and Principal Jason Houle, INN serves students aged 13-22 in the Marquette County area, allowing them to earn their high school diploma.

State-certified teachers offer classes in math, English, science, social studies, computer technology and physical education from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 some Fridays at St. John’s School, 325 S. Pine St., Ishpeming.

The program, following the Michigan Merit curriculum, provides low student/teacher ratios and has a relaxed, flexible, responsive atmosphere. Emphasis is placed on career/vocational opportunities community service, and transitional support to enable post-secondary education. The program offers a multi-disciplinary approach to learning where students can complete online-based classes at their own pace.

Students must earn 20 credit hours to receive their diplomas once their original class has graduated. If a student’s original class is still in school, he/she must successfully complete eight semesters, attaining the same number of credits required by their original school district.

Available to students are the Michigan Merit diploma, small class sizes of 10 to 15 students per class, credit recovery options, a chance to earn eight credits a year and limited Friday school days of 13 per school year. Career training is available as is volunteering in community service programs.

To register or for further information, call the community schools division at 906-475-4173 or 906-315-1490.