Organization Description

Mt. Scott Learning Centers (MSLC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that offers an accredited, alternative education program to meet the special needs of our community’s at-risk youth. The majority of MSLC students come from low-income backgrounds and often struggle both socially and academically. Many of our students have learning disabilities and all have environmental distractions that make it essential that each student receive the individualized attention afforded by our small class sizes.

Founded in 1994 as a summer program serving two-dozen children, Mt. Scott Learning Centers now operates an accredited program serving 130 students from sixth grade through high school diploma completion. MSLC fosters a safe, stable, environment with small classes and certified teachers who provide the individual attention our students need. MSLC not only supports our students’ academic success, but also helps each child recognize his/her ability to make positive life choices. MSLC believes all children deserve a chance to learn and explore, and to develop the skills they need to pursue their dreams.

Mt. Scott Learning Centers is part of the Coalition of Metro Area Community Schools (CMACS), a network of approximately 20 education agencies or organizations in the Portland area that serve students who have dropped out or are at risk of dropping out of school. MSLC is diploma-based (accredited) and primarily serves SE Portland; other programs are GED-based, employment-based, or may serve specific populations such as homeless or pregnant and parenting teens. The coordinators/directors of the CMACS programs meet monthly and collaborate closely with Portland Public Schools’ Education Options Department.