Through a collaborative effort with Darke County Education Service Center and Darke County schools, the Council on Rural Services offers an alternative education program for student’s grade 9 through 12 who are credit deficient or looking for an alternative learning environment. The program is designed with a philosophy that all students can learn and can succeed when the conditions are conducive to their personal and educational needs. The mission is to provide a structured and supportive environment for students that need a different educational choice in order for them to thrive. ACES provide a certified teacher, tutor aides and youth advocates that concentrate on an intense, long-term school program that moves students towards graduation. The coursework includes focused and specialized curriculum for the students. The program also incorporates activities and services that promote personal development, address prevention and intervention. We also provide workforce development to learn job readiness and life skills that enable them to become productive citizens. The referral process starts with the student’s home school administrator and permission of the student’s parents or guardian. At the conclusion of the student’s education with ACES, students receive a diploma from their home school.