Our vision is to create a new prototype for public high schools in both New Mexico and the United States. Our school is located in the Old Town/Saw Mill/Museum District of Albuquerque in order to provide access to young people from across the city. The school and its programs, provide cutting-edge specific learning to students by highly skilled instructors. ACE Leadership was created on the premise that, given the appropriate design, we can significantly reduce the number of low income students who currently do not graduate in Albuquerque. This school will capture their imagination and prepare them for college and work.

The assessments that we create for students are based on ‘mastery’ of skills and knowledge. They will also be public, high stakes, and authentic to the needs of employers and post-secondary education. We are accountable for creating diplomas that have currency in the marketplace. We also engage in the non-profit and governmental sectors building a network of support for these young adults. The partnerships have been created to encompass the students’ comprehensive needs (social and emotional, academic, and health) which are critical for them to succeed in a challenging and intellectually stimulating school as well as in life.

Our commitment goes beyond graduation and through a successful transition to work and/or college as we help our graduates establish a professional network of support to advance their careers.

We envision an initiative that embraces three distinct and complementary missions:

High School

350 students in grades 9-12 who are matriculating directly from middle school

• A year-round calendar with six weeks of ongoing professional development, interim and summer school for students, and programs where students can be mentored and develop their academic skills,
• A dual enrollment and/or apprenticeship program for all graduates,
• A focus on ‘positive youth development’ through mentorship provided by faculty and through partnerships with community members and agencies working with young people,
• A robust alumni network that can create economic opportunities for its members

Dropout Re-engagement Program

Students ages 16-21 (grades 10-12) who have left high school and have not graduated:

• Credit evaluation to determine the clearest path to a diploma and academic skill evaluation to identify learning styles and the best instructional approaches,
• Access to social services to ensure comprehensive needs are met,
• Diplomas that certify job readiness in the construction industry,
• Placement in higher education or apprenticeship with follow through support by ACE Leadership staff when appropriate

Professional Development Center

Teachers and administrators will be Program Associates of the ACE Leadership Professional Development Center. The Center will provide an ongoing assessment of the school’s progress. Also, the Center will provide the opportunity for cutting edge professional development that will be available to educators from around the state and nation. Finally, the Center will be an incubator for new schools like ACE Leadership in other communities.

• Please contact Christina or Tori for information about the high school, enrollment, lottery process, lottery applications, employment, and any other information related to ACE Leadership