The analysis focused on 57 evaluation studies identified through a computer search of three major databases covering the years 1966-93. All consisted of a separate curriculum and were housed outside a conventional school. The studies assessed at least one type of outcome: student attitudes toward school, school performance, self-esteem, and juvenile delinquency. Results revealed that alternative education programs have a small overall effect on school performance, attitudes toward school, and self-esteem, but no effect on juvenile delinquency. In addition, alternative education programs that target a specific population of at-risk delinquents or low school achievers produce larger effects than programs with open admissions. Tables and 55 references (Author abstract modified)