COMPASS Alternative Center

COMPASS is a voluntary high school program designed to provide an alternative education for students in grades 11-12 in the Linn-Mar and Marion Independent School Districts, or referred by attending institution. Students attending COMPASS earn credit toward their resident high school diploma. COMPASS meets the unique needs of students by providing individualized graduation plans and relevant curricula. Our goal is to provide academic and social/emotional support so that every student will achieve academic and personal success.

Classes at COMPASS follow an 85-minute block schedule Monday through Thursday. While classes are different on Fridays, students are still required to attend. Classes at COMPASS are delivered in a teacher-led, electronic-based and independent study format. Attendance is very important as everything is completed during class time. A strict attendance/tardy policy is in place.

Successful COMPASS Students:

  • Request a transfer to COMPASS with support of parents/guardian
  • May have experienced a disruptive life event that interferes with his/her progress toward graduation
  • May need an altered school day schedule which cannot be accommodated at other schools
  • Have reliable transportation to and from school
  • Are comfortable in a small learning environment
  • Respond positively to supportive relationships with adults
  • Take responsibility for their education
  • Have the desire to graduate from high school
  • Are in good disciplinary standing at school

COMPASS Schedule

Monday-Thursday

Block 1     9:00-10:15
Block 2     10:18-11:25
Block 3     11:28-12:35
Block 4     1:10-2:20
Block 5     2:23-3:30
RTI            3:30-4:00

Friday

Block 1    9:00-10:07
Block 2    10:10-11:17
Block 3    11:20-12:20
Lunch      12:20-12:45
Block 4    12:45-1:45
Block 5    1:50-3:20
RTI           3:30-3:55

If you are interested in attending COMPASS, talk to your school counselor to start the intake process. Students are encouraged to start COMPASS at the beginning of an academic quarter. It may not be possible for a student starting mid-quarter to have a full schedule at COMPASS.

Contact COMPASS
Principal: Joseph Nietert  (319) 730-3621 / Email
Secretary: Brenda Saville (319) 730-3620 / Email
Counselor: Danielle Patterson (319) 447-3059 / Email
Address: 2999 N 10th Street, Marion, IA 52302
Fax: (319) 403-8068