Educational Alternative Services (EAS)

The ALPHA Center program is a voluntary prevention program for 4.5 students located on the Blanton Elementary School campus and operated by Operation PAR (Parental Awareness and Responsibility) in partnership with the Pinellas County School Board. Program direction and consultation, for staff, are provided by the ALPHA Steering Committee, which includes representatives from the Pinellas County School Board, Operation PAR, Inc., the Juvenile Welfare Board, and the Department of Children and Families. The program supports students who are struggling academically and would benefit from short-term but intensive counseling, reduced class sizes, and a focus on small-group and individualized instruction. Each student is paired with an Operation PAR Prevention Specialist and eligible students attend the program five days a week for one school year. Active parent involvement is essential, and ten evening workshops focused on parenting skills are offered throughout the year. 

The Graduation Enhancement Program (GEP) is an EAS program offered at most traditional high schools, allowing students to complete their required coursework for graduation via computer-based or blended Edmentum courses. Enrollment in the program is limited due to the one-on-one support provided to each student's individual academic needs. The student's school-based teacher provides daily support, communicates with families, and connects students with certified GEP content-area teachers, who assist with Edmentum coursework throughout enrollment. Student schedules include four to seven GEP periods dedicated to completing Edmentum courses; any remaining periods are assigned based on individual needs. Co-enrollment in the program is prioritized for at-risk seniors, students whose transfer status effects on-time graduation, students needing to get back on track before senior year, and others identified by school administration. 

GEP Parent Notification & Consent Form Parent or Guardian (only), please complete the electronic form providing your consent for enrollment in the Graduation Enhancement Program. If you have additional questions, please contact the GEP school counselor for your students' school listed below.

25-26 EAS Virtual Parent Interest, Notification, & Consent Form Parent or Guardian (only), please complete the electronic form expressing your interest & providing consent for need-based enrollment in the EAS Virtual Program. Please contact Jackie Allison If you have additional questions.

GEP School Counselor Contact Information

Jackie Allison 

Phone - 727-588-6327 | Email - allisonjac@pcsb.org

High Schools Supported: Dunedin | East Lake | Hollins | Lakewood | Largo | Palm Harbor University | Seminole | St. Petersburg | EAS Virtual Program

Kelly Lindhardt

Phone - 727-588-5041 | Email - lindhardtk@pcsb.org

High Schools Supported: Boca Ciega | Clearwater | Countryside | Gibbs | Northeast | Pinellas Park | Tarpon Springs

EAS Director & Program Administrator - Michelle Topping

Phone - 727-588-6069 | Email - toppingl@pcsb.org

Pace Center for Girls is a non-residential, gender-specific program that provides a safe and supportive environment for girls in grades 6–12, ages 11–17, throughout Pinellas County. The program helps girls build healthy relationships, plan for their future, and overcome histories of trauma by providing year-round academic support, counseling, and mental health services. Pace envisions a world where all girls and young women are safe, have economic security and an opportunity to use their voice in shaping their future. All girls, regardless of their background, deserve an opportunity to become strong, compassionate and successful women. When properly supported, all girls have the power to achieve their vision of success, which leads to positive outcomes for themselves, their families and communities. For more information about PACE Center for Girls visit their website at PACE, Center for Girls in Pinellas County

Referrals for enrollment can be made by parents or guardians, the girl's zoned school, community partners, Department of Juvenile Justice, or themselves. To refer a girl to Pace complete the Pace Center for Girls online interest form by visiting their website at Pace Center for Girls Online Interest Form

The Pinellas County Schools Teen Parent Program supports pregnant and parenting students in achieving academic success and preparing for college, career, and life. The program’s objectives are to help students remain in school and graduate, reduce the likelihood of a subsequent teenage pregnancy, strengthen parent–child relationships, and ensure access to high-quality childcare and parenting education. The Teen Parent Program provides comprehensive services, including parent education, licensed childcare, health and social services, and transportation where available. Services are offered in all high schools, middle schools, Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) programs, and Educational Alternative Services (EAS) programs. Full-time students are eligible for teen parent services if they can meet the Florida high school graduation requirements by age 20, or by age 22 for ESE students.

Participation is voluntary; however, regular school attendance is expected. Pregnancy or parenting responsibility related absences are excused, but students are responsible for completing all missed coursework. The Teen Parent Coordinator will review service options for students not currently enrolled and will notify the social worker assigned to the appropriate school. Transportation is not provided when a school or agency does not have existing bus service. Daycare services may be discontinued for reasons such as poor attendance, misuse of services, lack of academic progress, or withdrawal from school.