News / Press

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.

ACES Chase Academy to Host Two STEAM-Focused Expos Celebrating Student Innovation

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

ACES Chase Academy to Host Two STEAM-Focused Expos Celebrating Student Innovation

(Hamden, CT –January 21, 2026) - ACES Chase Academy in Waterbury is excited to welcome families, educators, community partners, and supporters to two engaging, STEAM-focused expos that will showcase the innovative work of students across multiple grade levels. As part of the school’s commitment to project-based learning, these events taking place in January and February highlight students' creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills as they tackle real-world challenges through science, engineering, and invention.

On Monday, January 26, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m., the Grade 7 & High School Science and Engineering Expo will take place at the ACES Chase Academy Theater (snow date: Friday, January 30). Seventh-grade students, along with select high school participants, will present original science and engineering projects developed in alignment with the Connecticut Science & Engineering Fair (CSEF). CSEF is a statewide competition that encourages students in grades 7–12 to pursue independent research and STEM exploration. Students will present projects at various stages from early question development to initial experimental design and may be considered for submission to the statewide competition later this spring. Their work will also be featured during ACES Chase Academy’s annual STEAM Night on April 23rd.

Then, on Tuesday, February 24, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. (snow date Friday, February 27), the Grade 6 Connecticut Invention Convention Expo will offer a platform for sixth-grade students to present their original inventions. As part of their year-long STEAM Expeditions coursework, students have been developing solutions to real-world problems through the Connecticut Invention Convention (CIC). This internationally recognized program fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in youth. Projects range from early-stage concepts to fully developed prototypes, with select inventions eligible for statewide recognition in the spring and inclusion in the April STEAM Night.

“These expos are more than just a showcase of student work; they are celebrations of creativity, perseverance, and the problem-solving mindset that we nurture every day at Chase,” said Dr. Frank LaBanca, Principal of ACES Chase Academy. “When students identify challenges that matter to them and use STEAM skills to develop solutions, they gain the confidence and capability to be tomorrow’s innovators.”

Dr. Thomas M. Danehy, Executive Director of ACES, added, “Events like these embody the mission of ACES, empowering students to think critically, solve complex problems, and take ownership of their learning. We are proud to support Chase Academy’s commitment to cultivating innovation and student voice through experiential education.”

Visitors are encouraged to stop by at any point during the event windows, engage with students, ask questions about their process and ideas, and see firsthand how ACES Chase Academy is cultivating the next generation of thinkers, makers, and leaders. All are welcome to attend, and no RSVP is required.

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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 Chase Academy Principal Featured in National STEM Publication

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

ACES Chase Academy Principal Featured in National STEM Publication

(Hamden, CT – December 8, 2025) — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is proud to announce that Dr. Frank LaBanca, Principal of ACES Chase Academy and a resident of Sandy Hook, Connecticut, is a contributing author in the newly released book STEM Century: It Takes a Village to Raise a 21st Century Graduate, AESA Edition. Published in collaboration with 21stCentury Ed and the Association of Educational Service Agencies (AESA), the book features voices from educational leaders across the country who are innovating STEM learning at the regional level.

STEM Century: It Takes a Village to Raise a 21st-Century Graduate, AESA Edition is available now for download on Amazon. To purchase, scan the QR code below or search the title on Amazon. The collection features insights from educational leaders nationwide including Dr. LaBanca and offers a national blueprint for advancing sustainable, equitable STEM education.

In his chapter titled "Creating Systems and Coherence to Support Project-Based Learning in STEAM," Dr. LaBanca offers a grounded and practical look at the critical infrastructures needed to support authentic project-based learning (PBL) experiences in real-world school settings. Drawing on his extensive background in STEAM education and leadership, Dr. LaBanca details how success in PBL is not the result of adopting a trend or framework alone, but of building strong systems, aligning visions, and fostering a culture of coherence throughout schools.

“When 21stCenturyEd invited me to contribute, I immediately knew I wanted to write about systems and coherence, the often unseen but essential structures that make high-quality project-based learning sustainable,” said Dr. LaBanca. “PBL doesn’t thrive because someone uses a new tool. It thrives when leaders align their vision, teachers collaborate meaningfully, and students are supported with structures that allow them to explore, create, and innovate with purpose.”

The book serves as a blueprint for educators, school and district leaders, ESAs, and community partners nationwide, providing guidance on expanding equitable access to high-quality STEM education, strengthening community and industry partnerships, and aligning workforce development with K–12 innovation.

Dr. Thomas M. Danehy, Executive Director of ACES, also commented on Dr. LaBanca’s achievement, stating, “Dr. LaBanca’s contribution reflects the heart of our mission at ACES. To lead with innovation and to create systemic supports that help all students succeed,” he said. “We are proud to see his thought leadership featured on a national platform.”

STEM Century: It Takes a Village to Raise a 21st Century Graduate, AESA Edition is now available through 21stCenturyEd and AESA. Educators, district leaders, and community partners interested in sustainable STEM and STEAM learning models are encouraged to explore this timely and inspiring collection of essays.

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About ACES:

ACES Welcomes Heidi, a Highly Trained Facility Dog, to Advance Wellness and School Safety

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000

ACES Welcomes Heidi, a Highly Trained Facility Dog, to Advance Wellness and School Safety

(Hamden, CT – December 4, 2025) — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is excited to welcome Heidi, a fully trained facility dog, to the ACES Security Team. Partnering with her handler, School Safety Officer Rich Simons, Heidi brings a powerful presence rooted in comfort, connection, and emotional support to ACES schools and programs across south-central Connecticut.

Trained by Puppies Behind Bars, a nationally recognized nonprofit based in New York, Heidi completed more than 10,000 hours of intensive instruction to prepare for her role as a facility dog. Her advanced training equips her to support a wide range of individuals in school, community, and therapeutic settings.

From 2020 through late 2025, Heidi served at a major Ivy League university in Connecticut, where she played a vital role in promoting student and staff wellness. She became a trusted and beloved presence, offering a consistent source of calm and connection. In addition to her university work, she supported students and educators in neighboring schools and community organizations, helping foster safer and more emotionally supportive environments.

As of December 1, 2025, Heidi officially joined ACES, where she is already making a positive impact across multiple programs and learning environments. She supports students in regulating emotions, assists during transitions and crisis moments, and contributes to outreach initiatives and professional development focused on wellness and trauma-informed care.

“Heidi brings calm, connection, and compassion into every room she enters,” said Dr. Thomas M. Danehy, Executive Director of ACES. “Her impact goes far beyond comfort, she helps students and staff feel safe, seen, and supported. We are proud to have her as a member of our wellness team.”

“Heidi exemplifies our commitment to holistic wellness,” added Rich Simons, her handler and School Safety Officer. “Whether she's supporting a student in crisis or simply offering a quiet moment of connection, Heidi makes a difference every day.”

When off duty, Heidi enjoys hiking, swimming in local ponds and the ocean, and playing fetch in the yard with her little sister, Libby, a certified therapy dog.

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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.

ECA Visual Arts Department Presents: Soft Systems Student Exhibition at City Gallery

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000

ECA Visual Arts Department Presents: Soft Systems Student Exhibition at City Gallery

(North Haven, CT – November 24, 2025) Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is proud to announce that the ACES Educational Center for the Arts (ECA) will host Soft Systems, an evocative student exhibition presented by the Visual Arts Department. This curated collection of sculptural works will be on view from December 5, 2025, through January 2, 2026, at City Gallery in New Haven, with an Opening Reception scheduled for Sunday, December 7, from 1–3 PM.

Soft Systems feature the innovative and thought-provoking creations of ECA high school visual arts students who have explored the expressive and structural properties of fiber and nontraditional materials. Employing techniques from traditional textile construction to experimental material manipulation, the students’ works invite viewers to reimagine softness as both a tactile and conceptual tool.

The pieces reflect systems of organization found in the natural world, cellular growth, bodily forms, tension grids, and stretch into the abstract, where materials fold, stretch, and hold space in unexpected ways.

“Soft Systems is a beautiful representation of our students' courage to experiment, question, and create from a place of deep inquiry. This exhibition exemplifies the ECA philosophy, where young artists work shoulder to shoulder with professional artists, shaping not just artwork, but ideas. It’s a celebration of transformation, texture, and thought,” said Stefanie Savo, Principal of ECA.

The ECA Visual Arts Department, grounded in material exploration and professional mentorship, offers over thirty-six foundation and special topics courses annually. These span media such as sculpture, printmaking, video, photography, interdisciplinary media, 4D digital fabrication, and more.

The Soft Systems exhibition is free and open to the public.
Location:
City Gallery
994 State Street, New Haven, CT 06511
Gallery Hours: Friday–Sunday, 12 PM–4 PM, or by appointment

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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.