CONNECT ACADEMY EAST INFORMATION

​Office Hours*:

8:00am-4:00pm | Monday through Friday
*Administrative hours of operation

Program Hours:

School Year:
9:00am-2:30pm |Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 
​9:00am-2:00pm | Wednesday
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Summer Program:
8:30AM-2:00PM | Mon. - Thurs. 

GRADES

​Connect Academy East serves grades kindergarten through second. 

ADDRESS

1464 S. Main Street, Door 7
​Lombard, IL 60148

PHONE

(630) 822-8085 Ext. 2

EMAIL

​​Peggy McDermott
Site Administrator

CONNECT ACADEMY EAST OVERVIEW

Connect Academy East provides individualized therapeutic day programs for students in kindergarten through second grade. By addressing each child’s academic, social, and emotional needs, we create a nurturing and inclusive environment that helps young learners build a strong foundation for future success.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Connect Academy East serves students in kindergarten through second grade, offering a comprehensive therapeutic day program tailored to meet the unique needs of young learners with varying disabilities. The program focuses on providing a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters both academic and social/emotional development, ensuring that each student receives individualized attention and care.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The academic curriculum at Connect Academy East is designed to align with the Illinois Common Core Standards, utilizing research-based core programs in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math. Small class sizes, with no more than 10 students per class. There is a teacher’s aide (paraprofessional) assigned to each classroom, along with additional paraprofessional support for individual students, if this need is identified in an IEP.  This structure allows teachers to adapt lessons to meet the specific needs and learning styles of each student, promoting a strong foundation in essential academic and social/emotional skills.

SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Connect Academy East integrates a daily Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum called AIM (Accept Identify Move). This research-based program combines Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help young children develop crucial social and emotional skills. The SEL program is designed to teach students techniques for emotional regulation, social interaction, and coping strategies, laying the groundwork for their future academic and personal success.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

To support the holistic development of its students, Connect Academy East incorporates various therapeutic approaches into its daily schedule. Art Therapy, Music Therapy, and Physical Education are integral components of the program, providing students with creative and physical outlets to express themselves and manage their emotions. These therapies complement the academic and SEL programs, enhancing the overall educational experience for each student.

SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

The highly trained staff at Connect Academy East are dedicated to maximizing the strengths of each student while minimizing the impact of their disabilities. By creating a safe and supportive environment, the staff ensures that students feel empowered and engaged in their learning and personal growth. This approach helps students build strong relationships and develop the skills necessary to become successful members of their communities.

COMMUNITY & COLLABORATION

Connect Academy East values the importance of community and collaboration. The school works closely with families and external experts to provide comprehensive support for each student. The advisory board, comprised of special education experts, offers valuable insights and guidance that enhance the student experience and contribute to their overall success.

At Connect Academy, we focus on building strong relationships with our students and their families. We meet each student where they are at to help them reach goals both emotionally and academically.
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- Peggy M.,    Site Administrator Connect Academy East

LEADERSHIP TEAM​

Our team at Connect Academy East is comprised of dedicated and experienced professionals who are passionate about supporting the unique needs of our students. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment.

Peggy McDermott
​Site Administrator

Peggy McDermott graduated from University of St. Francis, Joliet, with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a middle school endorsement, and earned a Masters Degree in Administration from Governor State University. She taught for 13 years as a first grade teacher along with 1 year teaching 3rd grade and 6th grade and serving as Interim Assistant Principal in New Lenox School District. Peggy also served as a Preschool Director for 6 years at Nazarene Preschool in Lemont; and owned her own tutoring business, Engaged Learners. In this position, she assisted students ranging from preschool to collegiate level to meet their goals, understand new skills, and their organizational skills. She has also worked as a dedicated parent/child advocate for 504/Individualized Education Plan (IEP) initial and annual meetings.
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CONNECT ACADEMY EAST CALENDAR

Stay informed with the latest events and important dates at Connect Academy East by regularly checking our calendar. It includes academic schedules, special events, and essential announcements to keep you updated and engaged.