DYS School District 210
The Alabama Department of Youth Services School District 210 serves students in all Department of Youth Services (DYS) institutional facilities. All instruction in DYS is individualized either through an Educational Service Plan (ESP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Individual plans are written in behavioral terms and based on a variety of factors: age, academic achievement, grade placement, related needs, and transitional goals. Along with their academic instruction, eligible students may participate in business and industry certified career and technical education programs that provide opportunities for students to earn workplace credentials.
For long term students in grades nine and above who are functioning academically at or near grade level, counselors verify coursework needed to ensure that appropriate Carnegie units are earned toward graduation. Although DYS schools may graduate students who meet the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) requirements, the local school is encouraged to award the high school diploma. For students who are 17 years or older with adequate basic skills and do not plan to return to high school, the General Education Development (GED) is an option. Students who complete their formal education within DYS are encouraged to continue their education at a postsecondary institution and/or be appropriately prepared to enter the workforce with business and industry credentials upon release.
Our Mission/Vision
The mission of the DYS School District is entrenched in the belief that all student instruction should be individualized to meet the unique needs of each student. Moreover, each student will be equipped with knowledge, skills, and abilities that will prepare them to function and make positive contributions in an ever-changing society.
The vision of the DYS School District is for every student to experience a safe, structured, technologically enhanced learning environment whereby teachers are invested and committed to promoting good character, citizenship, and lifelong learning. Our vision is predicated on the idea that these experiences and beliefs contribute to a seamless transition into society and a better quality of life.
Values & Beliefs Statments
- Education is a shared responsibility among students, teachers, guardians, community members, and other stakeholders.
- All students deserve a safe, secure, and orderly environment that is conducive to learning.
- Teacher attitudes and behaviors greatly influence the learning environment for all students.
- Effective teaching acknowledges different learning styles, provides academic rigor, and appropriately meets the needs of all students.
- Every child should be equipped with essential skills to become lifelong learners and productive members of an ever-changing society.
- All students should develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills that foster authentic and lifelong learning.
- Every child deserves a nurturing environment that promotes social-emotional learning and development.