It’s a familiar story for many parents—watching their child struggle in school, knowing they are capable but somehow unable to thrive in a traditional classroom. For a group of dedicated parents in 2003, this concern turned into action. They envisioned a school where children who didn’t fit the standard mold could still succeed, not just academically but socially and emotionally. That vision became AEF Schools, a place designed for students who needed something different—a structured, supportive environment where learning goes beyond textbooks and tests.
Today, AEF Schools is a fully accredited K-12 coeducational day school that provides a nurturing learning space for students who find traditional public or private schools challenging. With small class sizes, individualized instruction, and a focus on executive functioning, social-emotional growth, and life skills, AEF offers a unique educational experience tailored to each student’s needs.
Operating three campuses in the Davie area, AEF Schools cater to a diverse student population through two Preparatory Programs and one Academy Program. The Preparatory Programs support students who thrive in a structured setting without the added stress of homework or standardized testing. Many of these students are bright but face challenges like executive functioning deficits, anxiety, or previous negative school experiences. The Academy Program, on the other hand, serves students who benefit from a highly customized curriculum with a strong emphasis on life skills, vocational training, and independent living.
What sets AEF apart is its understanding that success isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some students go on to college, while others find their path in technical fields or independent living. By eliminating high-stakes testing and embracing a no-homework policy, AEF ensures that students focus on real learning—building skills, confidence, and resilience. Frequent movement breaks and structured social interactions further support cognitive and emotional development, creating an environment where students feel safe, understood, and empowered to grow. AEF Schools is also accredited by COGNIA, a globally recognized accrediting body, affirming its commitment to maintaining high standards in educational quality, continuous improvement, and student performance.
With an 8:1 student-to-staff ratio and a commitment to individualized learning, AEF Schools stand as a beacon of hope for students who might otherwise slip through the cracks. Here, education is not just about grades—it’s about preparing students for life, helping them unlock their potential, and giving them the tools to succeed on their own terms.
Learning That Works for Every Student
Imagine a student who is bright, curious, and eager to learn but constantly struggles in a traditional classroom. Maybe they forget to turn in assignments, have trouble organizing their thoughts, or feel overwhelmed by fast-paced lessons. At AEF Schools, these students aren’t overlooked—they’re understood.
AEF takes a different approach to education, one that meets students where they are and gives them the tools to succeed. Instead of relying on rigid teaching methods, AEF Schools tailor their curriculum to each student, ensuring academic progress while strengthening executive functioning, social skills, and real-world problem-solving abilities.
A key component of AEF’s success is its COGMOTICS Program—a unique model that blends cognitive skill development, executive functioning training, and social-emotional learning. Through structured exercises, students improve their ability to plan, organize, regulate emotions, and tackle challenges with confidence. This program helps students turn frustration into achievement by teaching them how to manage tasks effectively and approach learning with a problem-solving mindset.
For those needing additional academic support, AEF’s Pathway to Progress Program offers targeted intervention. This initiative helps students strengthen their academic foundations, develop better study habits, and build resilience. Whether a student struggles with organization, time management, or test anxiety, this program provides the structured guidance necessary to close learning gaps and boost confidence.
At the heart of AEF’s teaching methods is the belief that learning should be engaging and accessible. Small class sizes ensure that every student receives the individual attention they need. Teachers use direct, explicit instruction—breaking down complex concepts into manageable steps—so students can grasp new ideas without feeling lost or overwhelmed. Multi-sensory learning techniques, such as hands-on activities, visual aids, and interactive discussions, further enhance understanding and retention.
Personalized Learning Without Pressure
Traditional schools often rely on standardized testing to measure progress, but AEF Schools take a different path. Instead of pressuring students with high-stakes exams, AEF focuses on mastery-based learning. Students advance when they’re truly ready, ensuring they build a solid foundation in each subject before moving forward. This approach reduces stress, fosters confidence, and promotes long-term academic success.
Small class sizes and flexible pacing allow students to progress at their own speed while still receiving the challenges they need to stay engaged. Without the rigid expectations of standardized benchmarks, students can focus on real learning—not just memorizing facts for a test.
AEF also integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance personalized learning. Digital tools such as Khan Academy, IXL Learning, Desmos, Rosetta Stone, and Percipio provide interactive lessons tailored to each student’s needs. These platforms allow students to practice skills at their own pace while giving teachers real-time insights into their progress. Whether it’s reinforcing math concepts, improving reading comprehension, or learning a new language, these resources make learning more engaging and effective.
Beyond academics, AEF’s approach to personalized learning extends to life skills and social development. Small group instruction ensures that students receive individualized feedback, while structured classroom settings create a supportive atmosphere where they can develop confidence and independence.
Empowering Students Through Personalized Support
At AEF Schools, students thrive in an environment designed to foster academic success, personal growth, and emotional well-being. With a deep commitment to understanding the unique needs of each student, AEF creates a structured yet flexible learning experience that removes traditional barriers to success.
Many students who join AEF have struggled in conventional academic settings, where rigid expectations and standardized testing overshadow individualized support. At AEF, learning is tailored to each student’s strengths and challenges. Instead of a one-size-fits-all assessment model, AEF prioritizes progress-based learning, ensuring that students move forward at a pace that builds confidence and competence.
A key component of this approach is the Pathway to Progress Program, which offers academic and executive functioning support for students who need additional guidance. To reduce stress and promote a healthier school-life balance, AEF has also implemented a no-homework policy, reinforcing the philosophy that learning should be engaging and effective within school hours.
Beyond academics, AEF recognizes that executive functioning and life skills play a crucial role in student success. Many students face challenges not due to a lack of intelligence but because they struggle with organization, time management, and emotional regulation. To address this, AEF integrates executive functioning coaching into daily instruction. Students receive direct support in organization and prioritization, engage in goal-setting exercises to build independence, and develop emotional regulation techniques to navigate stress and frustration. Structured opportunities for self-reflection and self-advocacy further empower students to take ownership of their learning and personal growth.
The school’s innovative COGMOTICS Program strengthens these skills by blending cognitive skill-building, social-emotional development, and problem-solving strategies into academic lessons. This holistic approach ensures that students not only master the curriculum but also develop essential life skills for the future.
Creating an empowering learning environment starts with a school culture built on structure, consistency, and emotional support. AEF maintains a predictable and secure setting with clear expectations and routines, helping to reduce anxiety and foster a sense of stability. Multiple recesses and movement breaks throughout the day keep students engaged, while a proactive behavioral support system focuses on learning from experiences rather than enforcing rigid consequences.
Building Emotional Resilience and Social Confidence
AEF Schools understand that academic success is just one part of a student’s overall development. To help students thrive, the school integrates structured programs that foster social, emotional, and cognitive growth alongside traditional academics.
For many students, developing social awareness, confidence, and communication skills requires structured support. AEF incorporates social skills training into the curriculum, teaching students how to navigate peer interactions, resolve conflicts, and collaborate effectively. Through guided peer interactions and role-playing exercises, students practice initiating conversations, maintaining friendships, and developing emotional intelligence. Supervised group projects, clubs, and school-wide activities further reinforce these skills in real-world settings. Additionally, community-based experiences, such as visits to Davie PAL, provide opportunities to apply social skills in structured environments beyond the classroom.
Emotional regulation and self-awareness are also critical components of student development. AEF integrates problem-solving, cognitive flexibility, and emotional resilience into daily instruction through the COGMOTICS Program. Self-regulation techniques, including breathing exercises, mindfulness strategies, and structured movement breaks, help students manage stress and emotions effectively. Teacher-led emotional coaching guides students in recognizing their feelings, responding appropriately to challenges, and advocating for their needs in a supportive setting.
AEF takes a proactive approach to emotional support through its Get A Grip (GAG) program. The GAG room is a structured space designed to help students experiencing heightened emotions regain control and self-regulate in a productive manner. This initiative is not a punishment but a strategic intervention that allows students to process emotions and return to learning without escalating behaviors. Before utilizing the GAG room, students are encouraged to try self-regulation techniques such as deep breathing or movement breaks. Once inside, they engage in a structured reflection process, identifying emotions, recognizing triggers, and developing coping strategies. Trained staff members guide students through this process, ensuring that each experience is a learning opportunity.
To further support students, AEF utilizes the BIC System (Behavior, Intervention, and Communication), a digital tracking tool that monitors behavior, executive functioning progress, and social-emotional development. Teachers and staff log student challenges, behaviors, and accomplishments daily, enabling real-time intervention and personalized support. The system is not solely focused on discipline—it serves as a tool for reinforcing positive behaviors, recognizing progress, and fostering accountability.
Effective communication is a key aspect of the BIC System. By providing real-time updates, the platform ensures that families remain informed about student development and can reinforce key skills at home. The collected data also allows educators to identify behavioral trends and implement proactive strategies that support self-awareness and executive functioning growth.
A Partnership for Student Success
At AEF Schools, education is more than just academics—it’s a collaborative journey between students, teachers, and parents. The school firmly believes that when families and educators work together, students receive the academic, social, and emotional support they need to thrive. That’s why AEF has created a system of open communication, personalized intervention strategies, and shared goals to keep everyone on the same page.
Communication is at the heart of this partnership. AEF uses multiple platforms to ensure parents stay informed about their child’s daily activities, progress, and well-being. Every student maintains a daily agenda where teachers jot down assignments, reminders, and important updates. Parents are encouraged to check these regularly, helping them stay engaged in their child’s learning journey.
Beyond the agenda, AEF leverages Class Dojo, a digital communication tool that keeps parents connected in real time. Through instant notifications, teachers can share student achievements, track behavior, and even send snapshots of class activities, making parents feel like they’re part of the classroom experience.
But communication isn’t just about updates—it’s about meaningful conversations. That’s why AEF schedules quarterly conferences where teachers, staff, and parents sit down to discuss student progress, strengths, and areas that need extra attention. These meetings are a space for collaboration, where parents can share their insights, ask questions, and work with educators to create a tailored approach to support their child’s growth.
For students who need additional support, AEF goes a step further with individualized intervention plans. Whether addressing academic struggles, social challenges, or executive functioning skills, the school works closely with families to develop targeted strategies that ensure student success. The Pathway to Progress Program provides personalized academic interventions, and behavioral or executive functioning plans help students develop self-management skills that extend beyond the classroom.
AEF also recognizes the vital role parents play in reinforcing key life skills at home. That’s why the school offers training workshops focused on executive functioning, emotional regulation, and social skills development. These sessions equip parents with practical tools to support their child’s growth in everyday life.
Educators Who Make a Difference
At AEF Schools, the quality of education begins with the people who deliver it. The school holds its educators to high standards, ensuring that every teacher and staff member is not just highly qualified but also deeply committed to supporting students who may struggle in traditional school settings.
AEF’s educators come from diverse academic backgrounds, including Education, Special Education, Psychology, and Behavioral Science. Many have extensive experience working with students facing executive functioning challenges, social difficulties, or learning differences. But more than their qualifications, AEF’s teachers bring patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of how to engage students in meaningful learning experiences.
The school’s approach to professional development is rigorous and ongoing. Educators participate in continuous training programs designed to equip them with cutting-edge strategies that support students academically, socially, and emotionally. A core part of this training includes COGMOTICS, AEF’s proprietary curriculum.
Beyond curriculum training, teachers receive specialized instruction in executive functioning coaching, differentiated instruction, and behavior management. The goal? To ensure that every lesson is adapted to meet individual student needs while maintaining high academic expectations. Additionally, training in the BIC (Behavior, Intervention, and Communication) System allows staff to monitor student progress and intervene proactively when challenges arise.
AEF educators also undergo training in emotional regulation strategies, conflict resolution, and crisis prevention. The school’s GAG (Get A Grip) Room protocols teach educators how to guide students through self-reflection and coping techniques, ensuring that behavioral interventions are supportive rather than punitive.
But learning doesn’t stop with formal training. AEF fosters a culture of mentorship, pairing new teachers with experienced educators who provide guidance and support. Professional Development Action Groups allow teachers to collaborate, share best practices, and refine instructional techniques. These peer-led initiatives create an environment where educators continuously learn from one another, keeping teaching methods fresh and effective.
AEF also brings in experts from various fields to provide specialized training. Mental health professionals offer guidance on supporting students with emotional challenges, while executive functioning coaches equip teachers with strategies to enhance student organization and independence. Technology specialists ensure educators can integrate digital tools effectively, enhancing personalized learning experiences.
Building Leaders, Teams, and Connections
AEF Schools foster an environment where education extends beyond the classroom, shaping students into confident, socially aware individuals. Through a variety of extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and engage in meaningful social interactions. These programs are designed to build self-esteem, encourage teamwork, and provide real-world problem-solving experiences in a structured yet enjoyable setting.
Leadership and community service play a central role in student development. Key Club, an internationally recognized student-led service organization, allows students to engage in impactful projects that promote responsibility and teamwork. By organizing events, leading fundraisers, and contributing to their communities, students not only earn service hours required for graduation but also cultivate a sense of purpose and social responsibility. The Student Government program provides another platform for leadership, where students take an active role in shaping school initiatives, advocating for their peers, and managing school-wide events that promote engagement and school spirit. These experiences equip them with valuable skills in public speaking, problem-solving, and decision-making, all of which prepare them for success beyond school.
Athletics form an essential part of student life at AEF Schools, with varsity and junior varsity teams competing against other private schools. The sports program focuses on teamwork, perseverance, and discipline, helping students enhance their physical fitness while learning valuable lessons in sportsmanship and goal-setting. Cheerleading adds another dynamic to student engagement, promoting confidence, coordination, and school spirit through structured performances and collaborative teamwork.
Creativity is nurtured through performance-based clubs such as Drama Club and Music Club. These programs offer students a platform for artistic expression, whether through acting, scriptwriting, or musical collaboration. Public performances, group showcases, and school productions help students develop confidence, discipline, and teamwork while refining their creative talents. For those drawn to intellectual challenges, the Chess Club provides an opportunity to develop critical thinking and strategic planning in a competitive yet supportive environment.
Beyond academics, these extracurricular opportunities ensure that students build essential life skills, from leadership and organization to collaboration and self-discipline. Whether through service initiatives, athletics, creative arts, or intellectual pursuits, students at AEF Schools gain experiences that shape them into well-rounded individuals prepared for future success.
Making AEF Feel Like Home
Transitioning to a new school environment is a significant step for any student, and AEF Schools are committed to making that process smooth and supportive. The admissions process is designed to understand each student’s unique needs, strengths, and challenges through personalized interviews, comprehensive academic reviews, and structured assessments. Shadow days offer prospective students a firsthand experience of the school’s environment, allowing them to interact with teachers and peers before officially enrolling. A trial period further ensures that the school’s structured approach aligns with the student’s learning and social needs.
Once accepted, students receive a personalized transition plan tailored to provide the necessary academic, social, and executive functioning support. Orientation sessions introduce them to the school’s expectations, routines, and culture, helping them acclimate before the academic year begins. A peer mentorship program pairs new students with experienced classmates who guide them through their first few weeks, fostering social connections and easing the adjustment process.
Teachers and staff play an active role in ensuring a successful transition, conducting regular check-ins and offering additional support as needed. Communication between the school and parents remains a priority, with real-time updates provided through platforms like Class Dojo. This transparency keeps families engaged in their child’s progress and fosters collaboration between parents and educators. Quarterly parent conferences offer structured opportunities to discuss student development and address any concerns that arise.
Recognizing that many students come from educational backgrounds where they may have faced challenges, AEF integrates structured emotional and executive functioning support into daily instruction. Programs like COGMOTICS help students develop self-regulation, emotional resilience, and problem-solving strategies, while the BIC System tracks behavior and progress to provide timely interventions. The GAG Room serves as a designated space where students can regain composure and practice self-regulation before returning to class, reinforcing the importance of emotional management in a structured environment.
A strong sense of community is central to AEF’s approach, with students encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster friendships, leadership, and personal growth. Clubs, sports, and social skills training provide structured opportunities for meaningful interactions, while frequent movement breaks create low-pressure moments for socialization. Through these initiatives, students not only adapt to their new school but thrive within it, developing the confidence and skills necessary for long-term success. AEF Schools ensure that every new student feels welcomed, supported, and fully integrated into a learning environment that prioritizes both academic achievement and personal development.
A Community That Shapes Success
AEF Schools thrives on the strength of its community. Local organizations, businesses, and service groups play a key role in shaping the student experience, offering real-world learning, leadership development, and social engagement. These partnerships help students build confidence, responsibility, and the skills needed for life beyond the classroom.
Through its collaboration with the Kiwanis Club of Davie & West Hollywood, AEF’s Key Club provides students with meaningful opportunities to contribute to the community. They take on leadership roles, organize service projects, and raise funds for local and international causes. Beyond service, this experience instills teamwork, organization, and social responsibility—essential traits for future success.
The connection with the Davie Police Athletic League (PAL) further strengthens students’ personal growth. Structured recreational programs promote teamwork, discipline, and self-confidence while fostering positive relationships with law enforcement. These interactions help students develop trust, mentorship connections, and a deeper sense of social awareness.
Guiding AEF’s mission is its Board of Directors, a team of professionals dedicated to advancing the school’s vision. With backgrounds in education, business, and community leadership, they ensure AEF remains a premier institution for students who thrive in a structured, supportive environment. Their leadership strengthens policies, expands opportunities, and builds relationships that enhance academic and vocational pathways. By continuously evolving AEF’s programs, the Board ensures that students receive the education, guidance, and encouragement they need to succeed.
Shaping the Future of Education
AEF Schools is always evolving, refining its programs to better serve students and families. Future initiatives focus on enhancing academics, expanding support services, and strengthening community partnerships.
Recognizing that traditional assessments don’t always reflect a student’s progress, AEF is introducing alternative evaluations like projects and skill-based assessments. The Pathway to Progress Program is expanding to provide more individualized academic support, ensuring that students advance based on skill mastery rather than grade levels.
Social-emotional learning remains a priority. The COGMOTICS Program is growing to include more hands-on activities and emotional intelligence training. Enhancements to the BIC System will provide real-time support for students needing guidance in executive functioning and emotional regulation. Structured peer mentorship programs are also being introduced to build confidence, communication skills, and self-advocacy.
Career readiness is another key focus. AEF is expanding partnerships with local businesses to offer more internships and job-shadowing experiences. Programs like the Percipio IT training initiative are being enhanced to equip students with practical digital skills. New pathways in mechanics, trades, and entrepreneurship will ensure students graduate with hands-on experience and career-ready skills.
Technology-driven learning is also advancing. Plans include upgrading classrooms with interactive projectors, adaptive learning platforms, and updated Chromebooks. Tools like Rosetta Stone are being integrated to support language acquisition, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education tailored to their needs.
Facility improvements are underway to create an engaging, student-friendly environment. Outdoor recreational spaces are being expanded, classrooms are being redesigned for flexible learning, and the GAG Room is being enhanced for emotional regulation support. These upgrades will further enrich the student experience, ensuring that learning remains dynamic and interactive.
Community engagement is deepening, with expanded collaborations with Davie PAL, Kiwanis Club, and local businesses. Parent involvement is also increasing through workshops and training sessions, while student-led initiatives are empowering learners to take an active role in their education. With these advancements, AEF is committed to shaping a future where students feel supported, confident, and prepared for life beyond school.
To support year-round development, AEF also offers a Blended Summer Program, which continues cognitive and academic instruction during the summer months. Mornings are focused on skill-building, while afternoons are dedicated to fun-filled camp activities and weekly field trips, reinforcing learning in an engaging, balanced environment.
The Right Fit for Every Learner
Not every student thrives in a traditional school setting, and AEF Schools was built on the belief that education should be tailored to individual needs. For students facing academic challenges, social difficulties, or struggles with executive functioning, AEF offers a structured, supportive environment designed to help them not just keep up—but excel.
Here, learning goes beyond grades and test scores. It’s about building confidence, independence, and real-world skills that prepare students for success in and beyond the classroom. With a focus on mastery-based learning, executive functioning development, and social-emotional growth, AEF ensures that each student progresses at their own pace with the support they need.
While AEF welcomes students with a wide range of learning differences, it is not equipped to serve students who exhibit aggressive behavior, pose a danger to themselves or others, or require physical assistance for mobility or daily care. The school is designed to support high-functioning students who benefit from structure, emotional support, and executive functioning development in a safe and consistent environment.
Choosing AEF means choosing a school that recognizes potential, nurtures strengths, and provides a learning experience that meets students where they are.
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