Overview

The PACE (Positive Alternative for Continuing Education) program in the Mat-Su Borough School District supports middle and high school students on long-term suspension by providing a platform to continue their education, develop coping skills, and make positive life choices. Following the ABLE (Academy of Blended Learning Education) model, PACE offers a personalized learning experience that emphasizes credit recovery and includes mentorship from teachers who provide guidance, tutoring, and skill-building classes. The program collaborates with Onward and Upward for dynamic physical education and partners with the Cook Inlet Tribal Council to explore Alaska Native traditions and culture.

Operating at two locations—PACE West behind Burchell High School at 1734 Nicola Avenue and PACE East at Valley Pathways School—PACE is committed to helping students stay on track for graduation and encourages parents to support their children's progress as the new school year begins.

There are several components to PACE: 

• ABLE (Academics) and APEX Cyber Center
• Onward and Upward (Physical Education & One Health)
• Cook Inlet Tribal Council (Health and Cultural Awareness)
• Community Work Service

Students who attend PACE will go through an application process to ensure it is an appropriate placement.  It is the priority of PACE to maximize educational advancement, as well as the completion of a portfolio to help them with work, training, and school options after high school.