More than 2,500 programs that call themselves "alternative" have been identified throughout the United States. Administrators of these programs admit that the vast majority of them are alternative in name only and serve instead to isolate, segregate, and warehouse youth who can be difficult. How to Establish an Alternative School provides a comprehensive plan for anyone interested in creating truly alternative programs and schools that can dramatically redirect the lives of at-risk youth. Kellmayer outlines the key characteristics of successful alternative programs, describes alternative models, and tells you how to set up and effectively manage an alternative program that fits your needs and the needs of your students. He also provides strategies to help you empower teachers, involve students in their own education, and evaluate alternative programs. Kellmayer also offers all the help you'll need in overcoming the pernicious Not in My Backyard (NIMBY) syndrome that has historically prevented alternative schools from locating in desirable locations such as college campuses and shopping malls. This book is sure to become the bible of program planning for at-risk youth.