History

In 1994, ACES co-founders Rajiv R. Shah, M.D. and Rhoda Au, Ph.D. designed the ACES program based on 14 educational and psychological principles. Both realized the importance of having a proven rationale for ACES’ methods of educational enhancement. This year, ACES is celebrating its fifteenth anniversary by sharpening its focus and realigning its strategic plan with the academic challenges of today: helping fourth- through eighth-grade students in lower-income, lower-achieving schools overcome the fourth-grade slump.

Over the past few years, ACES has been recognized as a model after-school program for Minneapolis Public Schools, as an Outstanding Mentoring Programs by Mentoring Partnership of Minnesota, and as an Outstanding Community Partner by the University of Minnesota. In addition, ACES achieved Order of the North Star volunteer recognition by Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie.