Who We Are

Second Chance High offers students an alternative to the traditional classroom setting as they work towards gaining a high school diploma.  Second Chance features a smaller setting and utilizes primarily one-on-one interaction between the teachers and students. Courses are personalized and adapted for each student. The staff at Second Chance works together as a team sharing ideas and concerns regarding academics, social aspects, law, medical and/or family dynamics while also making decisions on matters involving individual students and program policies.

Online Program

Edgenuity is the online curriculum utilized by Second Chance High. Edgenuity enables students to take classes online while receiving one-on-one attention from highly certified instructors. Second Chance also uses the online ALEKS math program to develop and foster math skills in our students.

Student’s Academic Plan

Each student has his/her own plan of study that addresses the courses she/he needs for graduation. Teachers are curriculum-coaches who assist students one-on-one, and they help set the pace that best suits the goals of each student. Second Chance students can accelerate their progress if they are capable, and they are able to receive additional assistance from teachers if needed. Students at Second Chance also have the opportunity to take CTE (career and technical education) courses and traditional high school courses. Students can take courses they have an interest in such as welding, culinary, automotive, construction, music, art, drama, etc.

Student Expectations

Responsibility is expected of the students at Second Chance High. Students must maintain their grades and their attendance while enrolled in the alternative school program. Students must ensure that they are working to their potential and completing assignments in a timely manner, while also maintaining a respectful and positive attitude.

Services Offered

In addition to academic assistance and guidance, students receive assistance with personal/life issues and post-secondary planning. Students are directed to counseling and other service agencies to address any personal needs they have. In addition, students have access to job-search assistance through the SD Department of Labor. Finally, students receive assistance with explorations of post-secondary options, scheduling of college/technical school visits, ACT and entrance testing, and applications for financial aid and scholarship opportunities. 

Dual Credit Courses

When students reach their junior and senior year at Second Chance, they have the opportunity to take dual credit courses, which count towards both their high school credits and post-secondary credits. Students can take general education courses such as English and math at the post-secondary level while still in class with Second Chance teachers who can provide assistance and guidance.

Interact Club

Another component of Second Chance High is that we provide community service opportunities through our Interact Club, which is sponsored by the local Rotary Club. Our students seek out projects that benefit others individually or for the community overall.  Volunteering at the food pantry, participating in Trunk-or-Treat, assisting with the Pheasants Forever Banquet, creating Christmas goodie trays for local businesses, donating Thanksgiving meals to families during the holidays, volunteering at the elementary schools, and creating connections with local nursing homes are a few of the projects Second Chance students have devoted their time and energy towards. Community service expands our student’s learning opportunities beyond the walls of the classroom and makes them active members of their community.  

Second Chance High is a unique educational setting that provides options for individuals wanting to earn a high school diploma. Academic and technical oriented education programs are provided through an individualized, student‐ centered approach. Participants will learn through online instructional classrooms, small groups, community-based outreach programs, and employment opportunities. Content areas will stress individualized education, career development, and persona growth in a positive and caring environment.

Second Chance High staff will work with each student to assess academic, career, and personal needs to develop an individualized learning plan. Emphasis will be placed on helping students develop self‐discipline and responsibility like what would be expected of them in a work setting. Staff will maintain and model an orderly learning atmosphere through fair and respectful treatments of students.

A fundamental belief of the school is that all students are of value and that they need guidance to find and develop the positive qualities they possess. We understand that many of them come to us with life circumstances that present barriers to their success. We strive to be non‐judgmental and to provide a structured and supportive environment. We understand they have histories of failures in the “traditional” educational system. We will strive to find creative approaches to their learning. This will enable them to experience success and create satisfying futures.