In reaction to the recent release of the 2013 Pan Canadian Assessment Program results, in which Manitoba's grade 8 students achieved the lowest results in Canada in reading, numeracy, and science, the author conducted a literature review of alternative education programs, seeking to identify successful alternatives to traditional school structures. Four themes were identified. Students demonstrated improved academic achievement and motivation when learning took place in flexible learning environments, when students had opportunities to participate in individualized learning, and when an emphasis was placed on developing relationships. With reference to the fourth theme, while sometimes touted as a solution, alternative education programs were found to be often segregated from the traditional school system, leading to isolation and marginalization for both students and staff members. Administrators are advised, rather, to reduce class sizes within the traditional school system in order to provide teachers with opportunities to emphasize the first three themes in an environment that includes all learners.