The alternative education program serves students with an individualized teaching style. Some students said projects such as the one involving the boat prompted them to consider certain careers. Kristen Cofferen, a junior, said the alternative education program’s more creative approach to learning kept Kristen Cofferen from quitting school. Leia Lowery, meanwhile, sees a connection between the boat’s journey and the students. ( The boat is) just like them in that they end up where they’re supposed to be and sometimes they just take a different route.