And that's not a failure, it's just…a fact. Some kids need more flexibility. Some need intensive support. Some learn better at home, online, or in smaller settings. And surprisingly, LAUSD actually has options for that.

Yep, you read that right. LAUSD, the district we all love to gripe about, has a whole "Continuum of Educational Choices" designed specifically for students who need something different. Whether your kid is recovering credits, dealing with health issues, or simply learns better outside a traditional schedule, there's probably a program that could work.

So let's break it down, program by program, without the edu-jargon. Think of this as your friendly neighborhood guide to LAUSD's alternative schools, what they are, who they're for, and how to actually get your kid enrolled.

First, let's acknowledge the elephant in the room: the phrase "alternative school" can sound scary. Like your kid is being shipped off somewhere because they "couldn't handle" regular school. Delete that narrative right now.

Alternative schools exist because every human learns differently. Some kids need credit recovery after a tough year. Some need smaller class sizes or social-emotional support. Some have medical conditions that make traditional attendance impossible. And some just…vibe better with independent study or online learning.

LAUSD's alternative programs aren't punishment, they're options. And in a district this massive (we're talking 600,000+ students), having options is actually kind of beautiful.

What it is: Continuation high schools are designed for students ages 16-18 who are behind on credits and need a different path to graduation. These schools typically have smaller class sizes, flexible schedules, and a focus on getting students across the finish line with their diploma.

Who it's for: Teens who've fallen behind academically, need to work part-time, are parenting, or just need a less traditional environment to succeed.

The vibe: More personalized attention, often with career technical education (CTE) options built in. Think welding, cosmetology, or digital media alongside core academics.

How to enroll: This usually starts with a conversation with your student's high school counselor. They'll assess credit status and recommend whether continuation school makes sense. It's typically a referral-based process, not something you can just sign up for online.

What it is: Opportunity Schools serve high school students who need both academic support and social-emotional intervention. These schools are smaller, more structured, and often work with students who've struggled in traditional settings due to behavioral issues, trauma, or other challenges.

Who it's for: Students in grades 9-12 who need intensive support to stay on track academically and emotionally. This might include kids with attendance issues, those re-entering school after a gap, or students working through significant life challenges.

The vibe: Think therapeutic environment meets academic rigor. Smaller class sizes, counseling support, and a focus on the whole student, not just test scores.

How to enroll: This is also a referral-based program. Your student's school counselor or an administrator will initiate the process, often through a Student Success Team (SST) meeting or IEP if applicable.

What it is: Community Day Schools provide intensive, short-term support for students in grades K-12 who've been referred due to serious behavioral or academic concerns. These placements are typically ordered by a School Attendance Review Board (SARB) or through the juvenile justice system.

Who it's for: Students who need more intensive intervention than a traditional school can provide. This might include kids transitioning back from juvenile probation, students with significant behavioral challenges, or those at risk of dropping out.

The vibe: Highly structured, small class sizes (often 12-15 students per teacher), with wraparound services like counseling, mentoring, and family support.

How to enroll: You don't typically "choose" Community Day School, it's a referral-based placement made through SARB, probation, or district administration. But if you think your child needs this level of support, start by talking to your school's counselor or principal.

What it is: LAUSD's Virtual Academy offers full-time online learning for students in Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade. Kids learn remotely using district-provided curriculum, with live virtual classes and teacher support.

Who it's for: Families who prefer or need online learning, whether due to health concerns, travel schedules, geographic flexibility, or just a preference for remote education. Also great for self-directed learners who thrive with independence. And for some families, Virtual Academy has also become a vital option for a safer-feeling learning environment amid real-world safety concerns (including worries about potential ICE raids). If you want more context on why some LAUSD families are making this choice, here’s a helpful read: LA Public Press: “LAUSD families switching to online school scared of ICE raids”.

The vibe: Structured online learning with real LAUSD teachers, but from your living room (or kitchen table, or coffee shop…you get it). Students still follow the district calendar and curriculum, just digitally.

How to enroll: Parents can apply directly through LAUSD's enrollment process. Check with the Virtual Academy office for application windows and requirements. You'll need internet access and a device (the district can provide support if needed).

Pro tip: Virtual Academy is not the same as independent study. It's daily, synchronous online classes, so your kid will still need to log in during school hours.

What it is: This program provides in-home or hospital-based instruction for students who can't attend school due to medical conditions. A credentialed teacher comes to your home (or hospital) to deliver lessons and keep your child on track academically.

Who it's for: Students with temporary or ongoing medical conditions that prevent them from attending school in person. This could be anything from a serious injury to chronic illness to recovery from surgery.

The vibe: Personalized, compassionate, one-on-one instruction that meets your child where they are, literally. Teachers work around medical appointments and your family's schedule.

How to enroll: You'll need a physician's recommendation stating your child can't attend school for medical reasons. Then contact your school's counselor or administrator, who'll initiate the Carlson referral process.

Important note: This is typically a short-term solution while your child recovers or manages their condition. The goal is usually to transition back to traditional school when medically appropriate.

What it is: City of Angels is LAUSD's independent study program, serving students K-12 who need flexibility in when and where they complete their schoolwork. Students work through curriculum at their own pace, checking in regularly with a credentialed teacher.

Who it's for: Families who need scheduling flexibility, think student athletes with intense training schedules, performers, students who travel frequently, or kids who just learn better with independent pacing. Also great for students who need to work or have family obligations.

The vibe: Self-directed learning with teacher support. You're not flying solo, there are regular check-ins, assessments, and resources, but your child has more autonomy over their daily schedule.

How to enroll: Parents can apply directly through City of Angels Independent Study. There's typically an enrollment process that includes an orientation, meeting with teachers, and setting up a learning plan. Start by reaching out to the school directly or asking your current school counselor.

Reality check: Independent study requires serious self-motivation and parent involvement (especially for younger kids). It's amazing for the right student, but it's not "easier" than traditional school, just different.

Okay, so you've read through the options and one (or more) sounds like it could be a fit for your kid. Now what?

Step 1: Talk to your current school counselor. Most alternative placements start with a conversation at your child's current school. Counselors know the referral processes and can guide you through next steps.

Step 2: Attend that webinar (or watch the recording). LAUSD hosted a Family Academy webinar on January 29, 2026, all about these programs. Even if you missed the live event, the resources and recording are likely available at bit.ly/FACC_January2026. It's worth checking out for specific enrollment details and Q&A.

Step 3: Gather documentation. Depending on the program, you might need medical records (Carlson), credit transcripts (Continuation), or behavioral documentation (Opportunity/Community Day). Get organized early.

Step 4: Advocate clearly. Be honest about what your child needs and why you think an alternative program is the right fit. Bring examples, data, and if possible, your child's input. Remember: you're the expert on your kid.

Step 5: Stay involved. Alternative programs work best when families stay engaged. Check in regularly with teachers, attend meetings, and keep communication open.

If you're exploring alternative schools, chances are you've had some tough moments. Maybe your kid is struggling. Maybe you're exhausted. Maybe you're scared that choosing a different path means they're "falling behind."

These programs exist precisely because traditional school doesn't work for everyone: and that's okay. Some of the most successful, creative, brilliant humans took non-traditional paths. Your job isn't to force your child into a one-size-fits-all box. It's to find the learning environment where they can actually thrive.

And here in Venice? We get it. We're a community that values creativity, individuality, and thinking outside the box (literally and figuratively). If your kid needs a different kind of classroom, that doesn't make them less capable: it makes them human.

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