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By Jessica Cabeen

Principal of Alternative Programming

At Austin Public Schools (APS), we believe every student deserves a chance to learn in a way that works best for them. That’s why we offer two great programs to support students who need a different path to reach their goals: Austin Area Learning Center (AALC) and Austin Online Academy (AOA).

Austin Area Learning Center: A Different Way to Learn

The ALC helps students who need a new way to finish high school. It is open to students ages 16-21 and offers flexible class times, smaller class sizes, and extra help when needed. This year, ALC students have worked hard and earned back over 424 courses to stay on track. To provide even more support, APS will be introducing Flex Days at ALC. These days give students time to catch up on missing work, get extra help from teachers, explore career and college opportunities, and collaborate on group projects. By building in this extra time, students can stay focused, receive the help they need, and continue making progress toward their goals.

Austin Online Academy: Where

you can learn from wherever you are

The AOA is a fully online school for Minnesota students in grades 9-12. Students can take their classes at home and learn at their own pace. The AOA is growing, with students from 33 different school districts across the state! This year, we even added our first college-level class, where students earn both high school and college credit at the same time. In addition to core courses, AOA offers Advanced Placement (AP), Honors, and NCAA-eligible courses, giving students more opportunities to challenge themselves and prepare for college or athletics at the next level.

Getting Ready

for the Future

At ALC and AOA, students can take college classes while still in high school through Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) and our new opportunity: Early Middle College. This means they can save time and money by earning college credit early. We are also launching a Work-Based Learning program, where students can work with local businesses to gain real-world skills and explore future careers.

To learn more about Austin ALC or AOA, visit our website or contact Principal Jessica Cabeen at jessica.cabeen@austin.k12.mn.us