ReCONNECT ACADEMY INFORMATION

​Office Hours*:

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

Program Hours:

Opening Fall of 2026
Additional details coming soon​

GRADES

9th - 12th

ADDRESS

505 E. North Ave.
​Carol Stream, IL 60188

PHONE

(630) 822-8085

EMAIL

Heather Bruen
President

COMING FALL 2026: ReCONNECT ACADEMY PROGRAM

Beginning in Fall 2026, ReConnect Academy will offer school districts a structured, restorative alternative placement designed to support students navigating serious disciplinary challenges. Built on the proven Connect Academy model, the program helps students remain engaged in learning while strengthening decision-making, academic progress, and planning for future pathways.

District partners participate through a block seat model that ensures reliable program access when student needs arise. District leaders interested in learning more about the program and seat block availability are encouraged to connect with our team for additional information.​

Request Enrollment Information

PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Reconnect is a structured program focused on student growth, accountability, and building a clear pathway forward. The program supports students as they reflect on past decisions, strengthen interpersonal and decision-making skills, and remain engaged in their academic progress. Through guided programming and supportive relationships, students develop the tools needed to move forward with greater confidence, responsibility, and purpose.

Key features include:

• Structured programming focused on accountability, personal development, and student growth
• Opportunities to strengthen communication, interpersonal, and decision-making skills
• Guided reflection and goal-setting to support long-term personal growth
• Supportive mentorship and staff guidance throughout the program
• Activities designed to build resilience, responsibility, and positive decision-making
• Career awareness and future planning opportunities that encourage students to identify pathways toward college, career, and lifelong success
• Collaboration with districts to support student progress and future academic success

Program Overview

ENROLLMENT & BLOCK PURCHASING
ReConnect Academy operates through a block enrollment model that allows school districts to secure program placements in advance. This structure ensures reliable access to the program while allowing districts to plan for students who may require an alternative placement during the school year.

Through this model, districts purchase a set number of program seats that can be used as placement opportunities throughout the year. This approach provides flexibility while ensuring students can enter the program when disciplinary situations arise.

How the process works:

• School districts reserve placements through block purchasing (e.g., 5, 10, 20, 30, or 40+ seats)
• Seats may be assigned to students as placement needs arise
• Enrollment coordination is managed collaboratively with ReConnect Academy staff
• Students are introduced to program expectations and orientation prior to beginning
• Districts receive ongoing communication regarding student progress and transition planning

This model allows ReConnect Academy to maintain a structured, supportive learning environment while providing districts with a predictable and flexible pathway for student placement.

Discuss Seat Block Options

Reconnect is designed to ensure every student has a pathway forward. Through targeted academic instruction and social-emotional development, students gain the tools to make informed choices, build resilience, and pursue college, career, and lifelong success.
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- Heather Bruen, President

ReCONNECT ACADEMY LEADERSHIP

Our team at ReConnect Academy is made up of experienced educators and specialists who are dedicated to helping students reflect, grow, and return to their schools ready to succeed. Each team member brings expertise in restorative practices, therapeutic supports, and structured academic instruction to create an environment where students can rebuild trust and move forward. ReConnect Academy is led by Heather Bruen, President of The Connect Academy.

HEATHER BRUEN
President

Heather Bruen is a lifelong special education professional whose career has been guided by a deep commitment to supporting students and strengthening educational programs. She has served in a variety of roles across the field, including special recreation camp counselor, residential staff member, special education teacher, school counselor, IEP coordinator, and with the Illinois State Board of Education. Through these experiences, she has built extensive, hands-on experience working with students with diverse learning needs.

Heather later became a Partner at Proficio Consulting Group, where she worked closely with schools and districts to evaluate and improve special education programming and services. Today, she serves as President of The Connect Academy, where she leads the organization with a student-centered vision focused on equity, accountability, and meaningful outcomes for the students and families the school serves.

Meet the entire staff

EXPLORE SEAT BLOCKS FOR YOUR DISTRICT

ReConnect Academy partners with school districts to provide a structured, restorative alternative for students facing expulsion. Districts participate in the program by purchasing seat blocks that ensure placement availability throughout the school year.
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If your district is interested in learning more about seat availability, pricing, or partnership options, we welcome the opportunity to connect.
Complete the form below and a member of our team will follow up to discuss how ReConnect Academy can support your district.

HEATHER BRUEN
President, The Connect Academy
P: ​312-519-4581
E: [email protected]