ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION CENTER

Alternative Education Center is a public high school that is part of the Decatur SD 61 school district, located in Decatur, IL with about 23 students offering grade levels from 6th Grade to 12th Grade. With about 4 teachers, Alternative Education Center has a student/teacher ratio of about 5:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

The Alternative Education Center (AEC), located at 300 E Eldorado St in Decatur, Illinois, serves as a specialized facility within the Decatur Public Schools district designed to support students who may not thrive in a traditional classroom setting. The center focuses on providing a structured, supportive environment for students who require unique academic paths, credit recovery opportunities, or behavioral interventions. By offering smaller class sizes and more personalized instruction, the AEC aims to re-engage students and help them progress toward high school graduation.

Beyond core academics, the Alternative Education Center emphasizes the development of social-emotional skills and character building. The staff works closely with students to identify individual barriers to success, providing tailored support systems that help foster accountability and academic growth. Ultimately, the center functions as a vital resource for the community, ensuring that students who face challenges in conventional school environments still have access to the educational tools and guidance necessary to achieve their long-term goals and transition successfully into post-secondary life.

For more information, contact Alternative Education Center at (217) 424-3123 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.