The ALC is the alternative high school portion of the AEC . . .

Students enter our school for a variety of reasons--many wanting the smaller school atmosphere we so gladly offer. Here, students have the chance to turn life around academically and behaviorally as we endeavor to foster their abilities and maximize their potential. Our mission is to graduate amazing able bodied students through the McDowell County School system. We long to see our students suceed through wise choices and forward thinking!

The Pheonix Academy is the alternative junior high portion of the AEC. . .

Providing small class sizes and caring hearts, we seek to guide students through tthe ashes of life's difficulties and watch as they soar above circumstances. Students come here with a variety of backgrounds and all with the same shared goal, "To make wise life decisions and attain a quality education complete with meeting their fullest academic potential." Our students are treated like people that matter and as future adult citizens of our society.

The LEAP Academy is the accelerated pathway for moving students from below grade level to at grade level. . .

Students enter LEAP as 9th graders via an application and interview process. High emphasis is placed on the students' committment to catch up academically and enter a high school environment. After a successful year in the LEAP Academy students will be promoted to the 10th grade. LEAP students are held to high attendance and behavior standards. The staff of LEAP focus their insturction on meeting the requirements for high school graduation and the transition into a high school environment.