Based on the assertion that punitive programs for at-risk students are ineffective, this book describes in detail how to start an effective alternative program to redirect the lives of at-risk youth. Following the preface, chapter 1 presents a historical background and an overview of alternative education. The second chapter describes strategies for dealing with political opposition. Chapters 3 and 4 present 10 key characteristics of effective alternative programs and 10 alternative-education models. The fifth chapter explains the steps involved in setting up an alternative program--planning, judging the composition of the population to be served, selecting students, garnering district support and resources, locating a site, choosing staff, and developing a curriculum. A framework for curriculum development is outlined in chapter 6, which explores the role of technology and curriculum options such as crisis intervention, substance-abuse prevention programs, internships, and peer mediation. The seventh chapter describes the administration and organization of alternative schools, with a focus on programs located on college campuses, in shopping malls, and schools without walls. Chapters 8-10 offer strategies for empowering teachers, involving students, and evaluating the program. An index, list of written resources, and three tables are included. (Contains 54 references.) (LMI)