Outreach schools are developed to support students who cannot or do not wish to attend mainstream schools. These schools are often integral components of a jurisdiction's high school completion strategy. The programs in outreach schools respond to to students' particular circumstances and are flexible so that they can adapt to students' diverse requirements. Outreach schools operate outside of traditional school environments.
Outreach schools are staffed by small cadres of dedicated teachers who teach a range of students. Students complete their work independently or in small groups with the support of certificated teachers using a variety of resources to meet students' needs.
The foundation of outreach education is the personal relationships that students develop with the school staff. Because students typically work with teachers one-on-one or in small groups, a trusting working relationship often forms. This relationship ensures that students who have often not experienced success in school are able to develop a sense of security and connection that will help them achieve success.