Pre-School Programs
SPARK
The SPARK Program (Special Programs Arranged Regarding Kids) provides parent-funded pre-school classes for three- and four-year-olds, Extended Day Kindergarten (EDK), and Before and After school programming for preschool students only.
Learning Links Interactive Family Library, a component of the Early Childhood Block Grant, is a family centered, literacy-rich environment located at the Early Learning Center in Forest School offering a variety of literacy experiences and materials that can be checked out for home use.
SPARK’s mission is to provide a safe, secure environment in which children can grow physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually.
For further information, contact the SPARK office at 847-824-1065
Early childhood special education pre-school
Jane L. Westehold offers a continuum of special education services to meet the unique educational needs of the three to five year old students with disabilities.
Preschool children are found eligible to participate in district services through an identification and assessment process.
Pre-school for All-children ages 3-5
The State of Illinois Early Childhood Block Grant funds the Preschool for All (STAR) program for students who meet program criteria. This program emphasizes the relationship among early childhood education, parenting education and involvement, and future success in school.
This program has achieved the Gold Circle of Quality from the Illinois State Board of Education.
If you are interested in more information please contact:
Tamee Hussar, 847-789-5618
prevention initiative-birth to age 3
The State of Illinois Early Childhood Block Grant funds the Preschool For All Prevention Initiative Program for children birth to 3 and their families.
This program provides early, comprehensive evidence-based child development and family support services to help families prepare their young children for later school success.
Children and their families must meet program criteria to attend.
If you are interested in more information please contact:
Valia Garbis, 847-824-1065
Our Early Childhood Continuum of Services
Blended Preschool Classrooms
Students participate in an inclusive preschool classroom with peers while receiving individualized special education and related services. This setting promotes learning through play, social interaction, and daily routines.
Instructional Classrooms
Instructional classrooms provide specialized instruction for children with developmental delays who benefit from a smaller classroom setting and increased individualized support. Instruction is tailored to each child's unique learning profile using research-based practices.
STRIVE (Structured Teaching for Readiness, Independence, Voice, and Engagement)
STRIVE classrooms are designed for students whose learning needs are consistent with autism spectrum disorders or for those who have more significant needs, who would benefit from a highly structured learning environment. Instruction incorporates evidence-based strategies that promote communication, independence, social development, and positive behavior.
Evidence-Based Practices
Our classrooms utilize a variety of research-based instructional approaches, including:
- Naturalistic teaching
- Structured teaching and visual supports
- Daily schedules and routines
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
- Sensory regulation strategies
- Positive behavior supports
- Social skills instruction
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies, when appropriate (task analysis, forward/backward chaining, shaping, discrete trial, and antecedent support)
Our Goals
Our Early Childhood Program is designed to:
- Foster communication, social, behavioral, cognitive, and functional development
- Build independence and school readiness
- Provide opportunities for meaningful interaction with peers
- Support successful participation at school, at home, and in the community
- Partner with families to help every child reach their full potential