The Lighthouse Voc-Ed Center

Ocean Avenue LEARNing Academy is a specialized school in New London for students from PreK through high school who need more support than their home district can offer. We are run by LEARN, the regional educational service center for southeastern Connecticut, and we serve students placed by 24 school districts across 25 towns. We run two main tracks. Students with autism and other developmental disabilities receive intensive, individualized programming built on Applied Behavior Analysis, with goals in communication, independence, generalizing skills across settings and reducing interfering behavior. Students with social-emotional and behavioral disabilities work on self-regulation, executive functioning, repairing relationships and self-advocacy. Both programs use a transdisciplinary model with behavioral and mental health supports. Young adults who have met graduation requirements can continue in the LEARN Transition Academy, which offers internships and community access. Enrollment comes through a district referral.

ACES Educational Center for the Arts, at 55 Audubon Street in New Haven's Audubon Arts District, is a public, half-time magnet high school run by Area Cooperative Educational Services. We serve students from the 25 school districts in south central Connecticut and beyond. Our students study music, dance, theatre, creative writing, or visual arts alongside practicing artists, and our arts program includes multicultural and global citizenship education.

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is dedicated to enhancing and transforming the lives of students with special needs through innovative educational and therapeutic programs. Serving a diverse population, ACES focuses on providing tailored support for children with various disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, language-based learning disabilities, and emotional challenges. Key offerings at ACES include specialized educational programs such as the Center for Autism Spectrum and Developmental Disorders, which utilizes evidence-based practices like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI). Additional services encompass speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups designed to foster communication and interpersonal skills. The educational framework is enriched by the integration of technology and individualized learning plans that cater to each student's unique needs. What sets ACES apart is its commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized attention and support for every child. The campus environment is designed to be inclusive and nurturing, promoting a sense of community and belonging. ACES also offers vocational training programs and summer enrichment activities, providing students with opportunities for real-world learning and community integration, which are essential for their growth and development.