Targeted Opportunities for Personal Success (TOPS)

“TOPS” (Targeted Opportunities for Personal Success) was the acronym given to North St.Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale Targeted Services programming.

Targeted Services is part of the state ALC (Alternative Learning Center) funding designed for early intervention & prevention programming for students K-8 who are at risk of potentially needing ALC services during their 9-12 years or at risk of dropping out of school. (Minn. Stat. 124D.68)

The at-risk indicators determined by the MN Statute are:

• Is below one or more grade level(s) based on standardized tests
• Is behind peers in satisfactorily completing coursework
• Is pregnant or is a parent
• Has been assessed as chemically dependent
• Has been excluded or expelled
• Has been referred by a school district for being isolated, demonstrating low motivation, aggression or behavioral problems, has family issues, or for other reasons that put a child at risk of dropping out of school
• Is a victim of physical or sexual abuse
• Has experienced mental health problems
• Has experienced homelessness in the past 6 months
• Speaks English as a second language or has limited English proficiency (LEP) (Documentation of second language must in student's cumulative file)
• Has withdrawn from school or has a higher-than-average level of absenteeism
• Is a sibling of or is being treated in a hospital for a life-threatening disease

Enrollment for non-qualifying students depends on availability in the class. Priority is always given to students who qualify, otherwise, the class cannot be funded.

In most instances, your child can still participate. Certain classes have required participation for various projects, and it is best to check with the teacher teaching the course. Obviously, we would encourage your child to try to make every scheduled class, but we realize that things do come up.

Your child was recommended by a classroom teacher, administrator, or member of our guidance department based upon current academic performance or due to your child meeting one of the other qualifying factors.

Students can ride the activity bus.

No, TOPS courses are optional learning opportunities for students.