PATHWAYS ACADEMY INFORMATION

​Office Hours*:

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

Program Hours:

8:30am-3:15pm |Mon. - Fri. 
​8:30am-1:15pm | Once Per Month*
*Early release one day per month, see calendar for more information. ​

GRADES

Pathways Academy serves students with autism.

ADDRESS

1514 S. Main St., Door 15
Lombard, IL 60148

PHONE

(630) 822-8085 Ext. 2

EMAIL

Peggy McDermott
Site Administrator

PATHWAYS ACADEMY PROGRAM

We’re proud to introduce Pathways Academy, a specialized therapeutic day program, serving students with autism. Located in Lombard, Illinois, Pathways provides individualized instruction and supports that foster academic, social, and emotional growth, one unique pathway at a time. We believe in honoring each student’s journey through a nurturing, inclusive, and collaborative approach.
​
We are now accepting program applications for new students. Click below to learn more about our referral and enrollment processes!

Pathways Academy Enrollment

PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Pathways Academy offers a highly structured, therapeutic day program designed specifically for students with autism. The program emphasizes individualized instruction, communication development, and emotional regulation, all within a supportive, sensory-conscious environment.

Key features include:

• Individualized academic instruction aligned with IEP goals and Illinois Learning Standards
• ABA-based principles embedded in daily routines and classroom instruction
• Visual supports, AAC systems, and sensory tools to support learning and engagement
• Focused instruction on social communication, life skills, and self-regulation
• Small class sizes (max 8 students) with an overall 1.5:1 student-to-staff ratio
• ​Strong family and district collaboration to guide each student’s developmental path

Program Overview

NOW ACCEPTING REFERRALS
Pathways Academy is currently accepting referrals for students with autism who would benefit from a structured, individualized learning environment. Located in Lombard, Illinois, our program supports academic, emotional, and behavioral growth through evidence-based practices and therapeutic care.
Our referral process includes:

• Referral application from home district
• Review
• Program placement (if accepted) 
• Ongoing Support 

Click below to learn more about our referral and enrollment process, or contact us directly to speak with a member of our team.

Refer a Student

Pathways Academy focuses on a holistic individualized approach to educating and empowering students to communicate effectively and participate meaningfully in their social environment. 
​
- Peggy M., Site Administrator

PATHWAYS ACADEMY LEADERSHIP

Our team at Pathways Academy is made up of experienced, compassionate professionals who specialize in supporting students with autism. Each staff member brings expertise and a deep commitment to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child can thrive. Pathways Academy is led by Site Administrator, Peggy McDermott.

PEGGY McDERMOTT
​​Site Administrator

Peggy McDermott serves as the Site Administrator for Pathways Academy. She graduated from the 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.
​

Meet the entire staff

EXPLORE ENROLLMENT AT PATHWAYS ACADEMY

Pathways Academy partners with school districts to support students with autism through specialized programming focused on communication, behavioral development, and individualized instruction in a structured, supportive environment.

If your district is interested in learning more about program availability, student fit, or partnership opportunities, we welcome the opportunity to connect.
​
Complete the form on this page, and a member of our team will follow up to discuss how Pathways Academy can support your students.

PEGGY McDERMOTT
Site Administrator, Pathways Academy
P: 630-822-8085 Ext. 2
E: [email protected]

PATHWAYS ACADEMY CALENDAR

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

Your browser does not support viewing this document. Click here to download the document.