Barker became an alternative school in 1982 with 3 high school classes. From that point on the program added classes and has existed with 6 classes, grades K-12, for the past 20 years. Beginning with the school year 2004-2005, Barker has added 3 additional classes that were previously housed in the regular buildings.

Students have to qualify through special education to attend Barker and have annual IEPs written. Classes use behavior modification programs in the classrooms to improve student success in school.