ILC, known as the “Independent Learning Center” is a specialized resource available to students who benefit from a more focused, smaller group environment to succeed academically.
Recently, the Anaheim Union High School District (AUHSD) has been making efforts to expand the scope of these learning centers, making them an inclusion to more and more schools within the District community. For example, students of Magnolia High School can choose to opt out of their current classes in favor of the ILC, choosing the alternative learning system while remaining on their home campus.
But what do these learning centers hope to achieve? They strive to provide students with academic, social-emotional, and career support. In this program, students are encouraged to be self advocates who are motivated and cultivated to be compassionate members of society. The purpose of education is focused on becoming a therapeutic environment, which can be helpful to those who are struggling.
In the average ILC, students are given the option to participate in social-emotional group activities, as well as career exploration opportunities, making the ILC a more mental health focused center.
Why would students choose this option?
A recent study by the JED Foundation (December 2025) states 12.5 million people between the ages of 18 and 25 experienced a mental, behavioral, or emotional health issue in the past year. With 40% of high school students reporting consistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Suicide is the leading cause of death among young adults and teens (CDC, 2023).
ILCs are located in many schools within the AUHSD, with the numbers seemingly increasing as time progresses. Schools that offer the ILC alternative include Western, Magnolia, Savanna, and Anaheim High School.
As a student having experienced the ILC, I have come to learn that it is only helpful for the few students who really need it. For example, those who have jobs, or specific needs. It is not for everyone. It lacks community, and doesn’t feel alive.
I spoke with Mr. Laningham about the ILC and asked him how he thinks it compares with other alternative ed. programs. He explained the ILCs as, “…unnecessary, as we have continuation high schools, still allowing students to participate in the full spectrum of education instead of having to resort to an adjunct program that is over-paced and bereft of community.”
Click here to view JED Foundation Research Data
I personally have been through ILC, and from my experience I can say that is useful to the few that need it. In most cases students were in ILC due to their jobs that made it difficult to attend school, In this case I do believe it is useful. Generally, I believe that ILC can be very isolating. It’s not something I could recommend to a student long-term. Whether ILC is for you or not, is ultimately your decision.
