News / Press

ACES Appoints Lisa Seales as Assistant Principal of ACES Perry Hill NEST Program

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 04:00:00 +0000

For Immediate Release October 10, 2026

HAMDEN, Conn. — October 10, 2026 — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Seales as Assistant Principal of the ACES Perry Hill NEST Program, located at Perry Hill School in Shelton, Connecticut. Seales will officially begin her new role on October 26, 2026.

Seales brings more than 20 years of experience in education, including instructional leadership, curriculum development, early childhood education, and professional learning. Since 2021, she has served as a Professional Learning Specialist in the ACES Professional Development and School Improvement Unit, working collaboratively with school districts and educators to strengthen instructional practices, implement student support systems, and improve educational outcomes.

In her new role, Seales will work alongside Principal Cynthia Ratchelous, who also serves as ACES Director of Collaborative Student Support Services, to provide instructional leadership, oversee daily operations, and support the continued growth of the ACES Perry Hill NEST Program. Together, they will focus on strengthening educational programming, supporting staff, and fostering meaningful partnerships with families and participating school districts to ensure positive outcomes for students.

Now in its second year, the ACES Perry Hill NEST Program reflects an ongoing collaboration between ACES and Shelton Public Schools to provide specialized early childhood educational services. Located at Perry Hill School in Shelton, the program serves young children with autism and related developmental disabilities through individualized instruction grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). As the program continues to grow, Seales will work closely with Ratchelous and the Shelton school community to build upon the foundation established during its first year and support the program's continued development.

“As we enter our second year of the ACES Perry Hill NEST Program, we are excited to welcome Lisa to our leadership team,” said Cynthia Ratchelous, ACES Director of Collaborative Student Support Services and Principal of the ACES Perry Hill NEST Program. “Her extensive experience in early childhood education, instructional leadership, and professional development will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our collaboration with Shelton Public Schools. I look forward to working alongside Lisa to build on the program's success and create meaningful learning opportunities for our students.”

The ACES Perry Hill NEST (Nurturing Early Support & Transitions) Program currently serves students in preschool through first grade, with plans for continued expansion. The program emphasizes communication, social interaction, adaptive behavior, school readiness, and early academic development through individualized instruction in a language-rich, supportive learning environment.

Throughout her career, Seales has demonstrated a commitment to strengthening educational programs and supporting student achievement. In her current position at ACES, she has worked with early childhood programs to align instructional practices with National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards and has supported educators in implementing developmentally appropriate, play-based learning. Her leadership in implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) at a K–8 school contributed to a 20% reduction in students requiring Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions within two years.

Prior to her current role, Seales served as an Acting Administrator and Grade 4 Team Leader at Brown Intermediate School in Madison, Connecticut, where she supported school operations, staff development, instructional planning, and school climate initiatives. Her professional background also includes serving as an instructor in the CREC Teacher Residency Program, an ESOL Lead Teacher for the ACES World English Language Learners program from 2014 to 2015, and a kindergarten teacher at Barnard Environmental Magnet School in New Haven.

Seales holds a Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Reading and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management, both from Sacred Heart University. She also completed educational leadership preparation at Sacred Heart University and comprehensive special education preparation through CREC. Her credentials include Connecticut Educational Leadership (092) and Comprehensive Special Education (165).

“Lisa's extensive experience in instructional leadership, early childhood education, and professional development will be a tremendous asset to the ACES Perry Hill NEST Program,” said Dr. William A. Rice, Executive Director of ACES. “Her knowledge of our agency, collaborative approach, and commitment to supporting educators and students position her well to help guide the program's continued growth and success.”

As Assistant Principal, Seales will help advance the program's mission of providing high-quality, individualized educational opportunities for young learners while strengthening the partnership between ACES and Shelton Public Schools.

ACES Appoints Aaliyah Thomas as Assistant Principal of ACES Chase Academy

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 04:00:00 +0000

For Immediate Release October 10, 2026

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is pleased to announce the appointment of Aaliyah Thomas, M.Ed., M.A., as Assistant Principal of ACES Chase Academy, effective August 14, 2026. Thomas brings more than 15 years of experience in education to her new role, with a strong background in instructional leadership, teacher development, curriculum design, and data-informed school improvement.

Thomas most recently served as an Assistant Principal with the School District of Philadelphia, where she led school-wide instructional initiatives through classroom observations, teacher coaching, professional learning communities, and data-informed interventions. She also managed Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and School Improvement Planning, using data trends to implement targeted interventions and support student achievement.

“We are excited to welcome Aaliyah to the ACES Chase Academy leadership team,” said Dr. Frank LaBanca, Principal of ACES Chase Academy. “Her experience in instructional leadership, teacher development, and data-informed decision-making aligns well with the work taking place at ACES Chase Academy. Her ability to support educators while keeping student achievement at the center of the work will be a tremendous asset to our students, staff, and families as our school continues to grow.”

Prior to becoming an Assistant Principal, Thomas served as a school-based teacher leader, curriculum and content writer, instructional coach, and literacy teacher. She has also served as an adjunct professor at the Community College of Philadelphia since 2018. Her experience includes developing standards-aligned curricula and performance-based assessments, leading professional learning, analyzing student data, and coaching educators to strengthen classroom instruction.

“Aaliyah brings valuable experience as both an educator and instructional leader, along with a clear commitment to helping students and educators succeed,” said Dr. William A. Rice, Executive Director of ACES. “Her collaborative approach and focus on continuous improvement will serve ACES Chase Academy well as the school enters this next chapter of growth. We are pleased to welcome Aaliyah to ACES and look forward to the contributions she will make to the school community.”

Thomas holds a Certificate in Educational Leadership and Policy from Temple University, a Master of Education in Secondary English from Arcadia University, a Master of Arts in Writing Studies from St. Joseph’s University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English Liberal Arts from Lincoln University. She also holds a Connecticut Initial Educator Certificate in Intermediate Administration and Supervision (092) and a Connecticut Professional Educator Certificate in English, Grades 4–12 (015).

In her role as Assistant Principal, Thomas works alongside Dr. LaBanca and the ACES Chase Academy leadership team to support instructional excellence, professional learning, student achievement, and a positive school climate. She helps lead data-informed school improvement efforts, supports student and staff success, and fosters strong relationships with students, families, and educators. Thomas also plays an important role as ACES Chase Academy continues its growth, with the addition of grade 12 planned for the 2027–28 school year.

ACES Chase Academy, located in Waterbury, Connecticut, is a nationally recognized interdistrict magnet school with a strong STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) mission. Now serving students in grades 6–11, ACES Chase Academy will expand to include grade 12 for the 2027–28 school year. The school provides a student-centered learning environment focused on meaningful learning experiences, academic growth, and preparing students for continued success.

ACES congratulates Aaliyah Thomas on her appointment and welcomes her to the ACES Chase Academy community.

ACES Welcomes Hana, Its Third Highly Trained Facility Dog, to Support Students and Staff

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 04:00:00 +0000

For Immediate Release October 10, 2026

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is proud to welcome Hana, a highly trained facility dog donated by the nonprofit organization Puppies Behind Bars. Hana will be based at ACES Whitney High School North, becoming the third facility dog to join ACES and further expanding the agency’s commitment to student wellness, emotional support, positive connections, and safe and supportive learning environments.

Hana will work alongside her handler, ACES School Psychologist Susan Barnshaw, providing comfort, connection, and encouragement to students and staff throughout the school day. As part of the Whitney North community, Hana’s calm and reassuring presence can help students reduce stress, regulate emotions, build confidence, and feel more comfortable engaging with school professionals and participating in learning.

Before beginning their work together, Ms. Barnshaw and Hana completed an intensive 14-day team-training program through Puppies Behind Bars, graduating on August 3, 2026. The training prepared Ms. Barnshaw and Hana to work together as a team and to respond appropriately to the individual emotional and educational needs of the students they serve.

Hana completed approximately 10,000 hours of professional training and socialization through Puppies Behind Bars, a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that trains service and facility dogs through a unique program pairing incarcerated individuals with professional dog trainers. Through this extensive preparation, facility dogs like Hana develop the skills and temperament needed to provide meaningful support in schools and other community settings.

Hana joins Heidi and Lily, ACES’ first two facility dogs from Puppies Behind Bars, extending a program that has continued to grow across the agency. Heidi joined ACES in December 2025 and works alongside ACES School Safety Officer Rich Simons through the ACES Center for School Safety & Wellness. Her role combines wellness and school safety, helping build positive relationships among students, staff, school professionals, and members of the communities ACES serves.

Lily later became ACES’ second Puppies Behind Bars facility dog and works alongside ACES school social worker Kim Roche at Bassett Road School. Lily provides another avenue for students to connect, communicate, and receive emotional support within the school environment.

With Hana now joining the ACES family, the three facility-dog teams broaden the ways ACES can support students and staff. While each dog and handler has a primary role and setting, together Hana, Heidi, and Lily represent a shared approach centered on building trust, strengthening relationships, reducing anxiety, and creating environments where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

Hana’s primary assignment will be serving students and staff at ACES Whitney North. When appropriate, she may also join Heidi and Lily at selected ACES programs, agency events, and community activities, extending the benefits of the facility-dog program beyond an individual school.

The addition of Hana marks another important step in the continued development of the ACES facility-dog program. Through their presence in classrooms, counseling spaces, school activities, and community programs, Hana, Heidi, and Lily can create meaningful opportunities for connection while bringing comfort and joy to the students and staff they serve.

Together, ACES’ three facility-dog teams demonstrate the agency’s continued commitment to innovative approaches that strengthen school communities and place student wellness at the center of learning.

ACES Announces its Participation in the Community Eligibility Program (CEP)

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 04:00:00 +0000

For Immediate Release August 13, 2026

The Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) announces its participation in the Community Eligibility Program (CEP) for school year 2026-27. All students enrolled at the schools listed below may participate in the breakfast and lunch program at no charge. Household applications are not required to receive free meals, but alternate income forms may be distributed by the school to collect household income data for other programs that require this information. The CEP is part of the federally funded National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.

All students will be served breakfast and lunch at no charge at the following sites:

ACES the Bridge
ACES Bassett Road School
ACES Chase Academy
ACES Mill Road School
ACES Whitney Academy
ACES Whitney High School North
ACES Wintergreen Interdistrict Magnet School

Persons interested in receiving more information should contact:

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES)
370 James Street, Suite 303, New Haven, CT 06513
203-498-6800

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:

mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or
fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
email: program.intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) – Shaping the Future of Learning Through AI Literacy

Fri, 29 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is helping educators across Connecticut confidently introduce artificial intelligence into the classroom.

During the interview with Host Julia Gorman on CT BUZZ, Dr. Jessica White, Assistant Director of ACES Center for Artificial Intelligence, and Melissa Rosenthal, Professional Learning Specialist, discussed how the organization supports teachers through AI workshops, literacy training, and hands-on learning opportunities.

ACES International Preschool and Childcare Center prepares its children for Kindergarten and beyond

Thu, 28 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

WOODBURY, Conn. (WTNH) – At ACES International Preschool and Childcare Center in Woodbury, learning goes far beyond the classroom. Families recently gathered for the school’s Garden Party, where children planted flowers alongside parents and teachers in the school’s outdoor environmental classroom.

ACES Chase Academy Earns National Recognition with Principal and Teacher of the Year Honors

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

(Hamden, CT, April 21, 2026) — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) proudly announces that Dr. Frank LaBanca, Principal of ACES Chase Academy, has been named Magnet Schools of America (MSA) National Principal of the Year, and Marsha Perry, Grade 7 Language Teacher and Team Leader, has been named MSA National Teacher of the Year.

These prestigious national honors were presented at the Magnet Schools of America National Conference in San Diego, where educators and leaders from across the country gathered to celebrate excellence and innovation in magnet education.

Dr. LaBanca is recognized for his visionary leadership and forward-thinking approach to education. Under his guidance, ACES Chase Academy continues to evolve into a dynamic grades 6–12 STEAM magnet school, expanding opportunities for students to engage in innovative, real-world learning experiences.

Marsha Perry is celebrated for her unwavering dedication to students and her deeply student-centered approach to teaching. With nearly two decades of service at ACES, she has made a lasting impact by creating authentic, engaging learning environments and working to close opportunity gaps for all learners.

“To have both a national principal and national teacher recognized from the same school speaks volumes about the extraordinary work happening at ACES Chase Academy,” said Dr. Thomas Danehy, Executive Director of ACES. “Dr. LaBanca and Mrs. Perry exemplify the very best of our organization—innovative leadership, a deep commitment to students, and a relentless focus on excellence. Their achievements reflect not only their individual dedication, but the strength of the entire ACES community working together to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.”

Magnet Schools of America (MSA) is the national nonprofit professional association representing magnet and theme-based schools and their leaders across the country. Through leadership, professional development, and national recognition programs, MSA promotes high-quality, innovative public education that advances school choice, diversity, equity, and academic excellence for all students.

MSA’s national awards program honors educators who demonstrate outstanding leadership, instructional excellence, and a strong commitment to expanding opportunities for all learners, making these recognitions among the most respected in magnet education nationwide.

This dual recognition highlights ACES Chase Academy as a leading model for high-quality, student-centered STEAM programming and reflects the strength of its school community.

ACES Chase Academy is a nationally recognized public magnet school serving students from across the region, focused on preparing learners for success through science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).

ACES celebrates Dr. LaBanca and Mrs. Perry for their outstanding achievements and their continued dedication to students, families, and the broader school community.

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About ACES:

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex and Fairfield Counties. ACES serves school districts through innovative programs and services that meet the needs of a changing educational landscape. ACES operates magnet, special education, and alternative schools, as well as providing a wide range of educational services including professional development, transportation, translation, and adult vocational programs. Learn more at www.aces.org.

ACES Welcomes Lily, a Second Highly Trained Facility Dog, to Support Students and Staff

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

(Hamden, CT – March 13, 2026) — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is proud to welcome Lily, a highly trained facility dog donated by the nonprofit organization Puppies Behind Bars, to support students and staff at ACES Village School. Lily joins ACES’ beloved facility dog Heidi, expanding the agency’s commitment to student wellness, emotional support, and safe learning environments.

Lily will work daily at ACES Village School alongside her handler, Village School social worker Kim Roche, providing comfort, connection, and encouragement to students and staff throughout the school day. Her calm presence helps students regulate emotions, reduce stress, and build confidence as they engage in learning.

Like Heidi, Lily completed approximately 10,000 hours of professional training and socialization through Puppies Behind Bars, a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that trains service dogs through a unique program pairing incarcerated individuals with professional trainers. This extensive preparation equips facility dogs to work in schools and other community settings to support emotional wellness and positive engagement.

ACES welcomed its first facility dog, Heidi, in December 2025. Partnered with ACES School Safety Officer Rich Simons, Heidi works through the ACES Center for SchoolSafety & Wellness, supporting students and staff across ACES schools, partner districts, and community initiatives throughout south-central Connecticut. Heidi previously served at a major Ivy League university in Connecticut, where she became a trusted presence promoting wellness and connection for students and staff.

The addition of Lily further strengthens ACES growing wellness initiative. While Lily’s primary role will be supporting the Village School community, she will also occasionally join Heidi in providing comfort and support at ACES programs, partner districts, and community events when needed.

“Facility dogs like Heidi and Lily play a powerful role in helping students feel calm, connected, and ready to learn,” said Dr. Thomas M. Danehy, Executive Director of ACES. “Their presence helps create environments where students feel safe and supported, which is essential for both learning and well-being. We are excited to welcome Lily to the Village School community and look forward to continuing to expand this type of support across our programs in the future.”

Through their presence in classrooms, counseling spaces, and school activities, these highly trained facility dogs help build trust, reduce anxiety, and bring moments of joy to students and staff alike. Together, Heidi and Lily represent ACES continued commitment to innovative supports that strengthen school communities and prioritize student wellness.

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About ACES:
Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex and Fairfield Counties. ACES serves school districts through innovative programs and services that meet the needs of a changing educational landscape. ACES operates magnet, special education, and alternative schools, as well as providing a wide range of educational services including professional development, transportation, translation, and adult vocational programs. Learn more at www.aces.org.

ACES ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF DR. WILLIAM A. RICE AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2026

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ACES Educational Center for the Arts to Host Connecticut Native and First-Ever “The Voice” Winner Javier Colón for Student Performance and Q&A

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000

ACES Educational Center for the Arts to Host Connecticut Native and First-Ever “The Voice” Winner Javier Colón for Student Performance and Q&A

(Hamden, CT – February 2, 2026) — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is excited to announce that ACES Educational Center for the Arts (ECA) will welcome Connecticut native and inaugural winner of NBC’s The Voice, Javier Colón, for a special on-campus visit on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. The event will take place in the Arts Hall at ECA, located at 55 Audubon Street, and will provide students and staff with an unforgettable afternoon of music, storytelling, and inspiration.

Javier Colon, best known as the inaugural winner of NBC’s The Voice, will perform a 90-minute solo acoustic set followed by an interactive Q&A session designed to engage students in meaningful conversation about creativity, perseverance, and the realities of a career in the arts. Colon’s visit aligns with ECA’s mission to provide authentic, real-world learning experiences that connect students directly with working professionals in creative fields.

“At ACES, we believe that transformative education happens when students are given access to authentic, real-world experiences,” said Dr. Thomas Danehy, Executive Director of ACES. “Welcoming an artist of Javier Colon’s caliber to ACES Educational Center for the Arts allows our students to see what is possible when passion, perseverance, and creativity come together. This visit exemplifies our commitment to nurturing talent and empowering students to pursue their dreams.”

The afternoon schedule will begin at 2:00 p.m. with remarks from the Bob Parker Foundation Fund from 2:00–2:20 p.m. Javier Colon’s performance and Q&A session will follow from 2:30–4:00 p.m.

“We are thrilled to welcome Javier Colon to ACES Educational Center for the Arts,” said Stefanie Savo, Principal of ACES Educational Center for the Arts. “Our students are deeply passionate about music and the arts, and having the opportunity to learn from an accomplished artist who has navigated both the creative process and the professional music industry is incredibly impactful. Experiences like this remind our students that their voices, stories, and talents truly matter.”

Born and raised in Connecticut, Colon has built a career rooted in authenticity and musical excellence. Beyond his national recognition, he is known for his commitment to mentorship, education, and inspiring the next generation of artists. His visit to ECA offers students a rare opportunity to connect with a successful artist who shares their regional roots and creative aspirations.

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About ACES:

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex and Fairfield Counties. ACES serves school districts through innovative programs and services that meet the needs of a changing educational landscape. ACES operates magnet, special education, and alternative schools, as well as providing a wide range of educational services including professional development, transportation, translation, and adult vocational programs. Learn more at www.aces.org.