(KNZA)--Hiawatha USD 415 is moving forward with plans for an alternative education program designed to support high school students who are at risk of not graduating due to credit deficiencies or behavioral issues.

During a special meeting Monday evening, the USD 415 Board of Education approved the hiring of Nick Brungardt as the alternative program teacher as well as assistant high school football coach for the 2025-26 school year.

High School Principal Rhonda Wright discussed plans for the program at the April 14th board meeting.

She said the program would be for students who have shown that they cannot be successful in the regular high school program.

Wright said she would like to begin the program next school year and hold it in the Annex building.

She said the program, which has received state approval, is expected to accommodate around 10 to 15 students.

The program staff will include a full-time teacher, part-time teacher and paraprofessional.

Wright said the Riverside School District has an alternative education program, which has been very successful.