Dakota County Area Learning School (DCALS) is a Minnesota State-Approved Alternative Program designed to meet the needs of students who may not have found success in traditional school environments. While many of our students come from our nine member school districts, enrollment at DCALS is open to any student in Minnesota in 11th-12th grade. We offer two DCALS sites - one in West St. Paul and one in Rosemount.
As an ALC, DCALS offers smaller class sizes than most high schools, uses hands-on/experiential approaches to learning, and focuses on relationship-building in a positive, safe, and supportive learning environment. We offer alternative learning beyond the traditional classroom setting and Career and Technical Education opportunities to provide students an innovative with diverse pathways through equitable practices with highly trained staff. We want to ensure that your student will have the support necessary to successfully complete their pathway and reach their goals. DCALS offers seat-based, in-person programming as well as credit recovery options. By partnering together we can create a purposeful and personalized learning environment for all students.