CONNECT ACADEMY EARLY CHILDHOOD INFORMATION

​School Hours*:

7:30am-2:00pm | Monday through Friday

Student Hours:

8:00am-1:30pm | Monday through Friday

AGES

​Connect Academy Early Childhood serves children ages three through seven. 

ADDRESS

1519 Grace Street, Lombard, IL 60148

PHONE

630-822-8025 x3

EMAIL

Jessica Burkoth
Site Administrator

CONNECT ACADEMY EARLY CHILDHOOD OVERVIEW

Connect Academy Early Childhood is committed to providing a holistic and individualized educational program that addresses the developmental, social, and emotional needs of young children. By fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, the program helps children build a strong foundation for future academic and personal success.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Connect Academy Early Childhood, opening in Fall 2024, is designed to support children ages three to seven with varying disabilities through a comprehensive therapeutic day program. The program focuses on providing a nurturing and structured environment that caters to the unique developmental needs of young children, fostering both academic and social/emotional growth from an early age.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The academic curriculum at Connect Academy Early Childhood is Teaching Strategies Creative Curriculum for Preschool, tailored to align with the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards, utilizing developmentally appropriate and research-based instructional methods. Small class sizes, with no more than 10 students per class and a staffing ratio of 1.5 teachers and 1.5 paraprofessionals, ensure individualized attention. This structure allows educators to create personalized learning experiences that support the foundational development of cognitive and pre-academic skills in young learners.

SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Students will engage daily in a research-based, core Social-Emotional Learning program, Al’s Pals. This SEL preschool program provides children with the necessary skills to help cope with life’s challenges using interactive, puppet-led lessons that teach young children social and emotional skills and techniques for success. This curriculum focuses on teaching techniques for emotional regulation, social interaction, and early self-awareness, providing children with the tools they need for future success in school and life.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Connect Academy Early Childhood incorporates various therapeutic approaches to support the holistic development of its students. Art Therapy and Music Therapy are key components of the program, offering creative and musical outlets for young children to express themselves and manage their emotions. These therapies are designed to complement the academic and SEL programs, creating a well-rounded and engaging educational experience.

SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

The staff at Connect Academy Early Childhood are highly trained professionals dedicated to maximizing the strengths of each child while minimizing the impact of their disabilities. Connect Academy Early Childhood will utilize a BCBA to help support the younger student population acquire appropriate behavioral skills to maximize their learning. The program's supportive and nurturing environment ensures that children feel safe, empowered, and engaged in their learning and developmental growth. This approach helps children build strong relationships, develop early social skills, and become confident learners.

COMMUNITY & COLLABORATION

Connect Academy Early Childhood emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration. The program works closely with families and external experts to provide comprehensive support for each child. The advisory board, composed of special education experts, offers valuable guidance that enhances the program and contributes to the overall success of the students.

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Our dedicated administrative team at Connect Academy Early Childhood brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to nurturing young learners. Each member is devoted to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Jessica Burkoth
Site Administrator

Jessica Burkoth, the heart of our therapeutic preschool community, brings an abundance of experience and a dedication to nurturing young minds in a supportive environment. With 15 years as an educator specializing in early childhood development, Jessica ensures that every child at Connect Academy Early Childhood receives individualized care and educational enrichment. Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, and an Early Childhood and Special Education Endorsement. 
Jessica is dedicated to fostering a holistic environment at Connect Academy Early Childhood, where children feel safe to explore through play, learn and grow. Her approach combines evidence-based practices with a compassionate understanding of each child’s needs, promoting emotional resilience and social skills development. 
At Connect Academy Early Childhood, Jessica works closely with a team of certified educators and specialized therapists to create individualized learning plans that support each child’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral development. 
Jessica invites you to discover the transformative impact of therapeutic preschool education at Connect Academy Early Childhood. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to schedule a visit - we look forward to welcoming you into our community!

CONNECT ACADEMY EARLY CHILDHOOD CALENDAR

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