About the NAEA

Empowering alternative educators through advocacy, collaboration, and innovative educational practices since 2002.

Teachers celebrating at the NAEA annual conference
About Us

Supporting Alternative Education for over 20 Years

Dive into our subpages to learn about our vision and mission, meet our board and leadership, and explore state regions and awards. Each section is designed to provide insights into our commitment to alternative education.

Mission & Vision

Learn how we advocate for alternative education and empower educators to make a difference.

Mission & Vision

Meet Our Leadership

Get to know the dedicated individuals leading our organization and their commitment to education.

Leadership
Map of the NAEA Regions

State Regions

Explore the various regions and state chapters that we support and how we connect with local educators.

Regions

Contact

Get in touch with the NAEA team.

Contact
Supporting Educators

What is Alternative Education?

Alternative education serves students who require or thrive in an environment other than a traditional educational setting. This population of learners may face challenges in school, home, and/or community. Their ability to receive services in a traditional academic setting may increase vulnerability to school failure. Alternative education strives to deliver equitable access to innovative approaches to teaching and learning which provide students the opportunity to meet graduation requirements, prepare for post-secondary experiences and participate as productive members of their communities.

Supporting Alternative Education across the country

Arizona Alternative Education Consortium
Arkansas Association of Alternative Educators
Georgia Association for Alternative Education
Illinois Coalition for Educating At-Risk Youth (ICEARY)
Iowa Association of Alternative Education
Michigan Alternative Education Association
Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs
Missouri Alternative Education Network
New Jersey Alternative Education Association
NC Association of Alternative Educators
Texas Association for Alternative Education
Utah Alternative Education Association (UAEA)
Rachel Tamborina
Wyoming Association of Secondary School Principals