An alternative to tradition education is growing in Big Rapids.

The Big Rapids Virtual School was started four years ago with the aim of providing a program of alternative education for students who are not able to attend classes at the high school.

Coordinator Tim Buckingham says it's surprising how many young people are caught in unfortunate situations.

“You would be amazed at the stories – just sad stories of these kids that have been in charge of their families since they were ten years old, homeless kids, and the battles they have fought to get to where they need to be.”

Buckingham says they had 23 students at the school's inception and this year they hope to graduate 103.

He notes BRVS is not adult education and covers grades 9 through 12.