A Needs Assessment Survey
Each year, local education agencies across Mississippi complete a Needs Assessment Survey, and your input matters. The Mississippi Department of Education Office of Compulsory School Attendance Enforcement (OCSAE): Alternative Education is responsible for distributing this vital survey at the end of the school year. It serves as your district’s official documentation for its alternative education program, helping to guide meaningful improvements for both students and staff. Your voice helps us grow stronger. Let’s build a better future together.
Email data to alteredhsepms@mdek12.org
High School Equivalency Education Program
A Second Chance to Succeed—Right in Mississippi Schools!
Mississippi schools have a powerful opportunity to offer students a High School Equivalency Program, an essential pathway to graduation and beyond. This program, part of the Alternative Education framework, helps students stay on track, reach their goals, and open doors to brighter futures. School districts planning to operate a High School Equivalency Program must submit an annual application. The MDE OCSAE: Alternative Education publishes the application, which can be found below.
HSEP Application Packet 2025.2026.pdf
All Mississippi public schools must complete the Intent Form. The Intent Form is a notification of the district’s decision to have an HSEP. If the district chooses not to have a program, this link is for the Intent Form only. Intent Form.pdf
Email HSEP Intent Form or Application to alteredhsepms@mdek12.org
Call to join the Alternative Education Team:
Currently, the Office of Alternative Education is gathering individuals who are interested in collaborating with the MDE on updating the Alternative Education Support Manual. If you are interested in sharing your expertise and collaborating with others to update the current Support Manual, please submit your contact information through the following link.
Join the Movement to Improve Alternative Education
MDE Office of Compulsory School Attendance Enforcement & Dropout Prevention
Alternative Education Contact:
Terissa Williams, Education Program Manager
662-404-0445 State Cell