The Teen Parent School Program at the Maine Children's Home is an alternative high school program for pregnant and parenting teens. Our school program has been in existence since 1974. At the time of its inception, it was the first school program of this type north of Boston. The program provides prenatal and parenting instruction along with academic and life skills courses. All students are registered as Waterville High School students and work toward earning a Waterville High School diploma. The Waterville Alternative Education program and the Teen Parent School Program are located in Lunder Hall at the Dorothy "Bibby" Alfond Campus and has four certified teachers on location, and other teachers from Waterville High School come to teach specific courses. Students are able to take classes offered by any of the four teachers. A full-time Clinician is available to assist students with individual and group counseling. This school program is open to all pregnant and parenting teens statewide.

Achieving financial and emotional independence is a tremendous feat in anyone's life. Early parenthood can make the journey more challenging, but not hopeless. Our aim is to remove as many deterrents as possible and then to build on the strengths of each young parent. Our aim is to help teen parents understand the concept of positive parenting, to support and assist them as they learn to deal with troublesome issues, and to provide a high quality and relevant education so they can acquire the knowledge and skills to move forward in a healthy life style.

How do I register?

Anyone who is interested in enrolling or obtaining more information about the program should call the director of the school program, Bodhi Simpson, at (207) 873-4253. If a teen feels that she is interested in enrolling, then an intake interview must be scheduled. During the interview, the potential student will receive an overview of the program and an intake form will be completed. There will also be an initial assessment of whether this program will meet the student's needs.

What courses are offered?

The following classes are offered: English, US History, World History, Health, Prenatal Instruction, Parenting, Independent Living, Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Biology, Physical Science, Government, Fine Arts, Career Exploration, PE, Creative Design, Business Math, Pre-algebra, and Work Experience.

All students also participate in a weekly support group session. This group time includes guest speakers, presentations on pertinent issues, and general discussions.

How much will it cost me to attend this school?

There is no cost. However, students are charged for textbooks and school materials that are not returned.

What is the size of the classes?

Our classes have between 5 and 20 students. Most classes have fewer than 15 students.

What do I do about daycare for my child while I'm in school?

There is an on-site childcare center for infants, toddlers, and pre-schoolers. The program director will assist students in finding childcare and applying for financial assistance for these services.

How will I get to school?

Students are expected have transportation to and from school.  Occasional transportation to and from school is available, on a limited basis, to students who live within a five-mile radius of the school AND who have no other means of transportation.

Will I receive any help with college plans?

Students receive help with college planning from the Waterville High Guidance Office and from the director of the teen parent school. Education plans are formulated and reviewed with each student. Field trips to local colleges are included each year.