Frequently Asked Questions
What is alternative education? Circumstances sometimes prevent some students from doing well in a traditional school structure. The alternative school recognizes this fact and provides instruction in ways that are matched to the student’s way of learning. Small classes and flexible scheduling guarantee students will not be lost in the crowd.
What is ACE? The staff of the ACE program are dedicated to the academic and personal enrichment of each individual in a positive and supportive learning environment. The PACE Center believes that all children can learn when they are provided the appropriate instruction that meets their educational, emotional, and social needs. ACE's mission is to provide a non-traditional program that gives students who are unsuccessful on a traditional school campus the opportunity to overcome their academic deficits, develop effective social and life skills, achieve success, and earn a high school diploma.
How does ACE differ from the traditional school setting? ACE offers the opportunity for dropouts, students at risk of dropping out, or students in need of a smaller learning environment to complete required course work needed for high school graduation. Individual, small group and computer aided instruction, social-emotional focus, flexible scheduling, and a quality, caring staff are the keynotes to this approach.
How much time will I have to spend in school? Each student is required to attend school on a daily basis. Student hours and schedules will be determined during a parent and student conference with their ACE counselor.
Is class work the same as at my regular high school? Yes and No. ACE offers classes in the same academic areas as any other high school. There is also a limited selection of elective classes from which to choose. Course work is provided to students in a variety of instructional ways, including but not limited to: small group guided instruction, direct instruction, and credit recovery classes through an online program.
Can I work and go to ACE? Yes, flexible scheduling allows the student to balance the needs of a job, family, and school.
How soon can I graduate? How soon a student graduates will depend upon how many credits the student has upon entering the program, STAAR test completion, and how hard he or she is willing to work to complete all graduation requirements.
Will I receive a “real” high school diploma? Yes. ACE students must complete the state and local required credits for graduation and pass all state mandated assessments . Your diploma will be from Pearland High School, Dawson High School or Turner High School.
Students who meet graduation requirements have the opportunity to walk with their home campus at graduation as well as PACE's graduation.
Who qualifies for admissions to ACE? All current high school Pearland ISD students are eligible to apply. Students are required to fill out a student application, attend an orientation and be willing to follow the student enrollment contract if they wish to be considered. The student’s application, attendance, discipline and educational needs are reviewed by the PACE Center staff. Students who are eligible will have an interview scheduled with the campus principal (or designee) and their parent(s)/guardian(s). ACE is not an assigned disciplinary program.
How do I apply? ACE Application Complete the application and return it to your home campus counselor.
Enrollment to ACE is a privilege. The enrollment will be tailored to the maximum number of students a teacher can effectively teach.
So, what’s the catch? It can’t really be this easy, can it? Learning is not necessarily easy; however, it can be a positive and enjoyable experience. But there is a “catch.” If enrolled at ACE, you must want to earn your high school diploma. All students enrolled at ACE are expected to attend school every day and to make progress towards graduation requirements.
It is important that the student and the parent/guardian know that attending ACE is a privilege. If an ACE student fails to live up to his/her end of the deal, or is not ready for the responsibility that is required to perform at his/her capabilities, the student may be withdrawn from the program. The student will return to enroll at their home campus.