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Amherst Education Center

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Welcome to AEC

Welcome to AEC

At Amherst Education Center, we believe in second chances, long-term growth, and the quiet power of resilience. As an alternative school serving Amherst County Public Schools, we provide students with a supportive and structured environment that helps them thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

 

Founded in 2008, Amherst Education Center emerged from its previous identity as Monroe Alternative School. The new facility, built by Amherst County Public Schools, represents a renewed commitment to student success and a strong foundation for personalized learning.

‘You Must Have Long-Range Goals To Keep You From Being Frustrated By Short-Range Failures.’

A stylized phoenix with fiery orange and yellow feathers against a black background.

What Our Students Say...

“Being at AEC has shown me that I can become a better version of myself. I've learned to be more respectful — not just to teachers and staff, but also to my classmates. Sure, there are bumps along the way, but I’ve learned how to apologize, stay in control, and move forward. No one’s perfect, but we can all try our best to improve. AEC really opened my eyes this year, and I’ve enjoyed every moment of being here.”

A stylized phoenix with fiery orange and yellow feathers against a black background.

What Our Staff Say...

"Working at AEC is not my job—it’s my passion. Each day, our students challenge me to be my best self. Their perseverance is inspiring, and I consider it an honor to be part of something as meaningful as the Amherst Education Center."

AEC is built not just for learning, but for renewal and growth – true to our Phoenix spirit.

About Us

  • A Place That Feels Like Home
    Each year, our staff honors one of AEC’s most meaningful traditions - hosting a Thanksgiving meal for our students. Staff members prepare and serve the food themselves, creating a warm atmosphere of gratitude, community, and connection. It’s one of many ways AEC feels more like a family than a school.
  • Quiet Strength, Lasting Impact
    AEC is known for its calm and focused atmosphere, even during busy school hours. This quiet strength echoes our school mascot - the Phoenix - a powerful symbol of rebirth, growth, and transformation. One of our proudest features is the Phoenix mural in our hallway, painted by former student and talented artist
  • Learning Beyond the Classroom
    Our students take pride in their environment. From the flower beds blooming at the front entrance - designed and maintained by students - to the peaceful courtyard in the back used for outdoor learning, AEC blends beauty and functionality to create a space that reflects student ownership and pride.
  • Ongoing Excellence
    Our dedicated custodial team has kept the school in exceptional condition since day one. Their work helps ensure that AEC continues to be a welcoming, clean, and inspiring place to learn.