By Sondra Barr
Photos by Kim Carrillo
In today’s educational landscape, the Accelerated Learning Center (ALC) is making waves by offering a unique and effective alternative for students who have struggled in traditional school settings. Operated by brothers James and Chris Meehan, ALC is driven by their shared commitment to helping at-risk youth find success through education. Their innovative approach is changing lives, and they’re determined to reach even more students in need.
From Business to Education
James Meehan’s journey began in the supply chain and logistics industry, where he built and sold a successful business in Phoenix by the age of 38. After exiting that business, he pondered his next steps and found himself drawn to a longstanding passion: serving at-risk teens through education. Realizing the power of education to change lives, he envisioned creating a network of charter schools tailored to these students’ unique needs.
Chris Meehan, living in Chicago at the time as an executive in the energy industry, didn’t hesitate when James proposed the idea. He moved to Arizona, and together, they acquired Eastpointe High School in Tucson. Their success there set the stage for their acquisition of ALC last July, expanding their reach and impact.
Tailored Education for Unique Needs
The Meehan brothers have designed ALC’s educational model to be highly flexible and personalized. Traditional large public schools often fail to meet the needs of at-risk students, so ALC offers an environment that takes each student’s circumstances into account. Each student at ALC has an individualized learning plan, developed with a mentor who guides them through their academic journey.
“We’re not just pushing students through a system,” James explains. “We offer a customized solution for each student.” This includes flexible scheduling options for those who need to work to support their families and a self-paced curriculum for students who need to catch up on credits.
Kim Carrillo, a parent who recently enrolled her 17-year-old son Ian at ALC, shares her perspective on the program’s benefits. “We love that there is a smaller number of students, as opposed to the traditional high school he was attending. The students that currently attend are going through some of the same challenges as my son, such as ADD and social anxiety. We also love that he can choose to do online at home or go into the classroom, as well as there being a mentor there helping him when he needs it,” Kim explains. She first learned about ALC while taking photos for this story and was impressed by James Meehan’s attitude towards his students and the empathy he has for them.
Mentors and Teachers Making a Difference
Central to ALC’s success is its mentoring program, ensuring that each student has a positive adult relationship in their life. “It’s more than just a teacher-student relationship,” Chris emphasizes. “Every student gets a mentor who helps build a positive connection, which leads to academic success.”
The teachers at ALC come from diverse backgrounds, bringing real-world experience and empathy to the classroom. This includes professionals teaching science and business experts who have chosen to dedicate their efforts to education. This mix of experiences helps create an environment where students feel understood and supported.
Driven by Impact
James and Chris Meehan aren’t bound by traditional educational methods, and this fresh perspective drives their innovative approach. “By not coming from an education background, we’re not limited by how things have always been done,” Chris says. This allows them to challenge the status quo and continuously adapt their methods to better serve their students.
The impact of ALC is evident in the lives of over 1,000 students who have found success through their programs. The brothers are motivated by the statistic that over a million adults in Arizona lack a high school diploma. “It doesn’t have to be that way,” James asserts. “There are options for students who aren’t finding success in traditional systems, and we provide those options.”
ALC’s Commitment to Excellence
Rated A by the Arizona Department of Education, ALC offers small class sizes, certified teachers, and half-day sessions to accommodate the diverse needs of their students. Located at 4105 E. Shea Blvd. in Phoenix, ALC provides a safe and supportive environment where students can thrive.
ALC’s mission is to offer an alternative high school setting for students facing academic, behavioral, and personal challenges. Their vision is for students to earn academic credits that fulfill graduation requirements while becoming lifelong learners. This mission is supported by three specific goals: accepting students who need individualized academic programs, providing effective and research-based instruction, and continually monitoring and adjusting each student’s course of study.
Join the ALC Community
For parents of students who need an alternative to the traditional high school, Accelerated Learning Center offers a valuable opportunity. The personalized and empathetic approach of the Meehans ensures that every student has the chance to succeed. If your child is struggling in a traditional school setting, consider the unique and supportive environment at ALC.
To learn more or to enroll your student, contact the Accelerated Learning Center at 602-485-0309 or visit their campus in Phoenix. Join the Meehan brothers in their mission to transform education and provide brighter futures for Arizona’s youth. Learn more at acceleratedlearningcenteraz.com.
This content is sponsored by Accelerated Learning Center.
