Blending in alternative schooling options for Mat-Su students

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District is introducing a customized learning program this year called Blended Academy.

"Kids learn a lot of different ways and we need to meet them where they are at. I think the old model was kids need to fit kids in the box we need to change the box to fit kids." Dan Micheal, Sherrod Elementary School Principal said.

Students will attend school for half the day and then focus on project based learning at home.

The program is a mix between home schooling and traditional brick and mortar schooling, he said.

But, this type of customized learning does not stop at the elementary level.

High School juniors and seniors can enroll in Middle College. Middle College allows students take classes through the University of Alaska while still in high school.

The school district is paying for the college credits so if you came out of this program with 60 credits that is 60 less credits you have to pay for." Talis Colberg, Director of Mat-Su College said.