Discover Our Story

To lead, promote, and support innovative learning experiences for all Minnesota students.

The Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs (MAAP) was organized by a small group of educators in the early 1980’s to help meet the needs of students, parents, teachers, administrators and the general public through a professional organization dedicated to the improvement of alternative education options. Alternative education has grown significantly in the past 40+ years. Over the past 40 years enrollment in Minnesota alternative programs grew from 4,000 students to over 135,000 students. Currently MAAP supports members in over 540 Alternative Learning Centers, Alternative Learning Programs, and Contracted Alternative Programs in Minnesota, surrounding states, and Canada. 

MAAP continues to provide Professional Development for teachers and administrators new to alternative education through MAAP 101.  MAAP also sponsors an annual  professional development conference for teachers and administrators to exchange best practice idea in alternative education.  Through out the year MAAP membership  provides avenues of support for members needing assistance.  In addition MAAP STARS is noted as one of the nations best student organizations dedicated to the positive development for students in alternative education.