Cape Girardeau's alternative education center has defied the stereotype.

The alternative education center's mission is to educate those who don't fit into a traditional educational setting. The Cape Girardeau School District's center is one of the quietest you'll find. In some cases, the students have had behavioral problems in the past, yet the students who walk the halls at the center abide by strict rules that allow no foul language, bullying or inappropriate clothing.

Often the alternative education center's students have fallen behind academically or have issues such as pregnancy. Teachers and administrators there have obviously worked hard to make sure they keep these nontraditional students in school. More than 100 students are served from fifth grade through high school.

By all accounts, the school district is doing good work at the alternative education center.