CONNECT ACADEMY MAIN INFORMATION

​School Hours*:

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

Student Hours:

9:00am-2:30pm |Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 
​9:00am-2:00pm | Wednesday

GRADES

​Connect Academy Main serves grades third through eighth. 

ADDRESS

​1514 S. Main Street, Lombard, IL 60148

PHONE

​630-822-8085

EMAIL

​Mary Vicich
Administrative Assistant

CONNECT ACADEMY MAIN OVERVIEW

Connect Academy Main is committed to providing a comprehensive and nurturing educational environment that addresses the academic, social, and emotional needs of its students, helping them unlock their full potential and thrive as active members of their communities.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Connect Academy Main serves students in grades third through eighth, offering a state-of-the-art therapeutic day program designed to meet the diverse needs of students with varying disabilities. The program is structured to provide a high-quality education in both academic and social/emotional realms, ensuring that each student receives individualized support and instruction.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The academic curriculum at Connect Academy Main is based on research-based core English Language Arts (ELA) and Math programs aligned with the Illinois Common Core Standards. The small class sizes, with a maximum of 10 students per class and a staffing ratio of 1.5 teachers and 1.5 paraprofessionals, allow for personalized attention and tailored instruction. This ensures that students can engage with the material at their own pace and level, promoting better understanding and retention.

SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING

A core component of the Connect Academy Main program is its comprehensive SEL curriculum, AIM (Accept, Identify, Move). This research-based program combines Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach students crucial social and emotional skills. The SEL program is implemented daily, helping students develop techniques for emotional regulation, social interaction, and personal growth.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Connect Academy Main integrates various therapeutic approaches to support students' overall well-being. Art Therapy, Music Therapy, and Physical Education are regular components of the program, providing students with creative and physical outlets to express themselves and manage their emotions. These therapies are designed to complement the academic and SEL programs, fostering a holistic educational experience.

SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

The staff at Connect Academy Main are highly trained professionals dedicated to maximizing students' strengths and minimizing the impact of their disabilities. The supportive environment created by the staff encourages students to feel empowered and engaged in their learning and behavioral growth. By focusing on both academic and therapeutic goals, Connect Academy Main helps students build strong relationships and become highly functioning members of their communities.

COMMUNITY & COLLABORATION

Connect Academy Main emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration. The school works closely with families and external experts to ensure that each student receives the best possible support. The advisory board, comprised of experts in special education, provides invaluable guidance that enhances the student experience and contributes to their success.

The 'C' in 'Connect' in my eyes stands for two things... 'Collaboration' and 'Community'. Never have I worked at a place, where I feel so valued, appreciated and respected, by colleagues and admin. I feel these pieces are why this school thrives so much. In addition to that, in the time I've been here I've gotten to know some exceptional students. The potential and hunger for success these scholars have is absolutely superb. With a combination of high expectations, hands on learning, and unconditional compassion, and understanding, our students will continue to SOAR!
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- Brandon A., Classroom Teacher

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Our team at Connect Academy Main is comprised of highly skilled and dedicated professionals committed to providing exceptional support and education to students with special needs. Each member brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for fostering the academic, social, and emotional growth of every student.

Mollie Marshall
Site Administrator 

Mollie Marshall is the Site Administrator for Connect Academy Main. She spent eight years as a self-contained special education teacher in Frankfort, Illinois before joining Connect Academy in 2022, where she played a key role in its establishment as the K-2 teacher. Last year, Mollie served as the assistant principal at Connect Academy, and she now leads as the Site Administrator. Mollie graduated from Illinois State University with an undergraduate degree in special education and holds two master's degrees from the American College of Education, one in special education and the other in educational leadership. With a deep commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments, Mollie is dedicated to ensuring that every student at Connect Academy receives the highest quality education and support. Her passion for education and unwavering dedication to her students and staff inspire a nurturing and empowering atmosphere where everyone can thrive.  

Peggy McDermott
​Assistant Principal

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 MAIN CALENDAR

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