Well if the focus is on punishment as you say (I've not seen this) then things have changed a great deal. Punishment was not the focus. There were reasonable consequences for breaking rules - but they were in fact very reasonable; and by typical industry standards, quit lenient. As I've pointed out, I don't know anything about what may or may not have changed.
I really don't want to come across as the apologist for ALA on Fornits. I am far to out of touch with current events to attempt any such thing.
However, speaking generally about Christian programs, I will make some comments.
As for taking issue with the apparent intolerance - that is not an unusual complaint. However - I would hope that the families who make use of the school would be of like mind.
There is of corse the potential for some teens to find themselves in such a program b/c it is what their parents believe - not what they believe. This has the potential for being most uncomfortable for some. I grant you this is a concern.
I would hope, that altho many attitudes, beliefs and behaviors would not be acceptable (acceptable defined as "not a problem") in a Christian program - the people holding such views would be treated with respect and consideration - even as they are disagreed with.
However, I would disagree with your comment: "the blanket slogan "Christ is the answer" is an irresponsible thing to teach kids who live in a diverse and multicultural society . . ."
If one believes the only real and lasting solution to the problem of sin (and all life's problems are the result of sin) is a relationship with Jesus the Messiah, then it would be irresponsible to not be clear on that point.
However - it is not a point to be forced - and that is an important thing to remember.
You ask: "Shouldnt a school with Christian values place the emphasis on tolerance for diversity & social justice. "
As to tolerance, I don't think so. There is a great deal that should not be tolerated in the Christian church. If it is, then what you have is something other than a Christian church. But this doesn't mean those who disagree should be guilt tripped or shamed. That is where to many Christian programs cross the line. I wish there were more effort to remember we are all sinners in need of grace and salvation; and that none of us has any business shaming others - for how are we any better? When it comes to being sinners in need of salvation, students and staff are on equal footing. Neither should be held up to public ridicule. And this business of public confession is something that needs to be halted absolutely - no matter what kind of program it is. Confession and repentance is between the person and God, an is no one else's business at all.
As to social justice - I am tempted to say, yes of corse this is always needed - but maybe we need to clarify what you mean by social justice. If you mean people treated fairly and equally despite their differences, then yes, of corse I agree.
Diversity is always good - but if your talking diversity of faiths - then you aren't talking a Christian program. It may be operated by a church - but if their is no focus on faith, then it is secular in its focus. Not a problem - but this isn't what we're talking about here. Of corse it is a Big problem, if the program is claiming to be non faith based - and then the students are required to attend Mass, or read the book of Mormon, or bow to Allah, or have new age beliefs forced upon them in LGAT seminars.
As for the Christian programs with questioning or disbelieving students, It is possible to debate the various issues and not attack one another. I consider it vitally important for the Christian program to remember you can not force repentance on people. That is between them and the Holy Sprit.
You can present the gospel message, and explain why we are to live one way, and not another - but weather or not this is accepted as truth by another is a deeply personal thing - between them and God.
Pounding anyone with guilt and shame will be far more likely to harden their heart, and drive them further into the darkness, than if you present the message with patience and kindness, and maybe even a little humor - and pray for them - and leave the convicting up to the Holy Sprit. Anything else is pointless and counter productive.
But please note - none of this means the gospel message, or the lessons in the scripture, should be watered down to suit another's personal taste. I'm just saying you can't force it. No matter how refreshing the water - if you force it down another persons throat, they will chock on it. They must drink willingly, b/c they want it, for it to do anygood.
You say "If a school has theology or divinity classes & regular church services it is one thing but the "Jesus wants your sinning kid to be punished" mentality that the website promoted was disturbing. "
If that's the message then your right, it is disturbing. I would be surprised. Punishment was not ever the focus - repentance and redemption - but not punishment. As I explained, repentance/redemption can not be forced. I know many "Christian" programs ignore this fact - but I hope ALA will never be one of them.
As to your final paragraph - As we all know, many kids end up in all kinds of programs, who don't need or "deserve" to be there. I would hope that these kids would be treated with the kindness and compassion - just like the kids who are more in need of intervention. Of corse, tragically, kindness and compassion are seriously lacking in this industry as a whole.
As for working with the parents to improve communication - Hopefully, there are always such efforts made - As you know - the Parents are often the problem.
