Paradigm Alternative Centers, Inc (dba Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum)(PAC) was founded by Ronald E. and Nancy S. Johnson in 1994 in an abandoned Mexican Restaurant with two bullet holes in the front window. PAC was among the first contract schools authorized by the Texas Legislature in 1993.The original focus was dropout prevention and recovery of fatherless teenagers. The mission expanded to serve students in home school, private academies, contract providers, and charter schools. See the “Founder/CEO” tab for more information.
PAC entered a contract with the Dublin Independent School District to provide educational services to at-risk teenagers. The unique PAC concept of virtue-based, accelerated, individualized learning began to attract father-challenged teenagers who recruited their peers. In 1996, PAC was recognized in USA Today newspaper among the nation’s 58 most effective programs for recovering at-risk teens.
Dr. Gene Hood of Indianapolis, Indiana learned about PAC and became a significant financial supporter, enabling Dr. Johnson to begin publishing textbooks specifically designed for teenagers who prefer an alternative to regular text books. Parents and curriculum distributors have subsequently learned about Paradigm, and have enthusiastically recommended Paradigm products for use in homes, voucher, contract, and charter schools. Today, PAC is assisting educational reformers and entrepreneurs from Maine to California with curriculum, training and a Campus Operations Manual. The unique PACS one room high school concept can be implemented in homes, churches, or public schools.
