School History / FAQs

South Providence School is an alternative school for students who have difficulty in the traditional school environment. We serve students in grades 6 through 12 who need a more individualized educational setting and a smaller school environment. SPS utilizes PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) to reinforce positive behavior and instill expectations of Respect, Integrity, Safety, and Excellence for all students.

UCPS School Board Policy 5-17 determines how students are placed at South Providence School. Students can be administratively assigned to South Providence or choose to attend south Providence as an alternative to long term suspension. 

The length of time in the program is determined by the placement letter and placement type. Please refer to the placement letter for information about when the student may return to the regular program or when the placement will be reviewed. 

Yes, students are provided bus transportation to South Providence. A bus will be requested and assigned as part of the enrollment process. 

The academic program at South Providence follows the North Carolina Standard Course of Study and utilizes UCPS-approved curriculum and resources.  Modifications may be made based on the need of the students but the goals and standards to reach are the same goals as standards as any other school in North Carolina.

In order to exit the program, you must meet the following requirements: 

• Pass 75% of your classes
• Have 85% attendance
• Earn 90% of your daily points
• Have no office referrals in the last 3 weeks you are at South Providence
• No OSS in the last 6 weeks you are at South Providence
• For long term suspended students only: meet the date requirement in the placement letter

Yes, teachers meet the licensure and certification requirements set forth by the state of North Carolina. 

You must be enrolled with Union County Public Schools in North Carolina in order to be eligible to attend. Placement in our program is determined by the Office of Student Support. 

Students graduating from South Providence will receive a diploma based on one of the standard diploma tracks established by the state of North Carolina. Please refer to the UCPS program of studies for more information. 

Some examples of safety measures include a locked campus, surveillance cameras, limited searches, School Resource Officers, behavior plans, and monitored movement throughout the building.  Safety practices are regularly reviewed and modified.