As the only Boston Public Schools program that specifically targets students who have dropped out of high school, the Re-Engagement Center (REC) provides one central location in a caring environment for students to access the resources and counseling that they need to re-enroll in school and get back on track to graduation. One of the first programs of its kind nationwide, the REC has found that these students want to come back to school and can succeed when they’re given the right support. It is a partnership between the Boston Public Schools and the PIC.

The Re-Engagement Center (REC) re-enrolls students who have dropped out of school and those who remain enrolled, but no longer attend school regularly.

It all begins with a conversation, staff sharing their own story and listening to the young person. They help students determine what the best fit will be for them, whether it’s a high school in the district or an alternative program with a non-profit partner, and help them enroll. The REC re-enrolls more than 300 dropouts annually, connecting them with appropriate school placements, while providing the personal support that returnees need to succeed.

The REC maintains an open-door policy. Young people and families are welcome to call the REC at 617-635-2273 or drop in to visit the center, which is located at Madison Park Complex, Building 1, 55 Malcolm X Blvd. Roxbury, MA 02119.

REC Services:

• Outreach to students via mail, phone, and door knocking
• Review transcripts to give students a picture of what they need to complete school
• Referral to online credit recovery, night school, day and summer school classes
• Help students enroll in an appropriate BPS high school or alternative program
• GED program referral
• Follow-up with students after placement
• Connections to various support services within the community
• Life and career workshops

For more information, contact Emmanuel Allen, Re-Engagement Center Director, at [email protected] or 617-635-2273.