The Alternative Education Department provides educational programs for students who have been unsuccessful in other educational settings for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to: social, emotional, economic, and legal issues. The Alternative Education Department serves at-risk and incarcerated youth in two types of settings: (1) Juvenile Probation Department facilities – Juvenile Hall, Ranch facilities, and (2) Community Schools serving students released from their home districts. AED emphasizes improving students' literacy, numeracy and social skills. AED also provides opportunities for preparation for future employment through job development, Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses and the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET). All students participate in the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP). Our Course of Studies in the core subject areas address the California Academic Content Standards, and students actively earn credits toward graduation.

We believe that all our students can be successful. The mission of AED is to treat the needs of the whole youth, ensuring that they grow in our programs with access to an enhanced academic and social skills set, a belief in their ability to succeed, and the knowledge that they have a team to support them.

Santa Clara County Office of Education Alternative Education Department is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is committed to providing an educational environment that promotes the development of literacy, 21st century skills, resiliency and appropriate social skills that will help our students to have a successful life.