The Light House

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.

ACES Whitney Academy EXPLORE & CREATE in Hamden is a therapeutic special education school for students ages 14 to 22 with cognitive, physical, behavioral, language and medical challenges. We are one of seven special education schools run by ACES, the regional educational service center for south central Connecticut, and students come to us from more than 40 participating districts. Our average class has nine students with one teacher, one or two teacher assistants and one-to-one aides as needed, and every student is assigned a mental health staff member. Services include occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, music therapy, aqua therapy, assistive technology, nursing care and behavioral support from on-site Board Certified Behavior Analysts. The program pairs a functional curriculum and high school credits with transition training in employment, independent living and community participation. Students work at paid job sites, a job center and a student-run business. ACES CREATE extends that preparation for 18 to 22 year olds. School life includes therapy and sensory rooms, a fitness center, swimming, bowling, Eagles sports teams, music and art, student council, field trips, a yearbook and prom.