Alternative Education is a concept dear to the hearts of many in our community.
In the past thirty-five years, AYA established schools from Florence to Brookings. Dedicated, highly qualified teachers plus a close-knit staff and volunteer network keep the spirit of alternative education alive and thriving. AYA excels in individualized instruction, with an average teacher/student ratio of 1:15. AYA is known for successes in credit recovery. Eighty-percent of our students attend for a term or two and return to their original school. Blended-learning, computerized lessons in a brick and morter location providing tech support, teacher and tutoring, expands the offered electives. Cooperative Learning brings multifarious scientific concepts within the reach of at-risk students. Mushroom Culture, Wooden Boat Workshop, 21st Century Literacy and local environmental internships are becoming more available. Considering the non-economy of the Coastal environs... transitions from the right-of-passage stage known as high school graduation is a subject never far from the center of the table. The complexities of The Oregon Diploma requirements can be navigated at AYA. For at-risk students, accruing college credits prior to high school graduation can mean qualifying for Pell Grants. Americorp regularly presents to our student population. AH, travel, community service, credits--surely there will be a few takers. There is a wave of interest in welding among female and male students--thanks to Southwestern Oregon Community College's investment in the mobile welding lab. Apprenticeship opportunities are a solid solution for many of our graduates. Increasing involvement with ORCO ARTS tends to make the student believe that all things are possible. The AYA crew sports strong advocates for every student daring to record their dream into the goal box. There is no place like the Oregon Coast to emphasize "Spirit of Place" through water quality and environmental stewardship. High Tech...High Touch. Just for clarification, blue hair, piercings, tattoos --in spite of appearances--are not requirements for admission!