AOEC, the Alternative Optional Education Center, coordinates the various programs and services that have been established by the Waukegan School Board, to improve the educational outcomes of District 60’s at-risk students. Our mission is to identify the social, emotional and academic needs of those students who are experiencing difficulties in the traditional school setting and provide the appropriate placement to ensure their success as students and citizens of our community.

The menu of in-district programs consists of AOEC Middle School, AOEC High School, AOEC Extended Day, Freshman Credit Recovery and Twilight School. The goals of the programs are to increase student attendance while also increasing student achievement and developing post-graduation training. To achieve these goals, a comprehensive individual educational plan, which identifies short and long-term objectives, is tailored for each student through an IOEP team.

Using a non-traditional, self-directed approach adapted to the needs of each student, the various programs combine direct and computer-based instruction aligned to the Illinois Learning Standards. These programs encompass all local and state requirements for graduation. Elective courses are available that promote post-graduation success and enhance student work-force marketability.

Additional services offered through AOEC include Homebound/Hospital tutoring, the Laptop program and the Pickus Child Care Center.

Ombudsman in Waukegan, ROE (Regional Office of Education Safe School Project) in Zion and Alternatives Unlimited (Lake County Learning Center) in North Chicago offer additional options for students whose circumstances dictate a change of placement or in lieu of expulsion.