Specialized K-8 Programs

Our inclusive program brings together typically developing students and students with identified special needs in a supportive, high-energy learning environment.

Program Highlights

• Expert Instruction: Classrooms are led by teachers dually certified in both General and Special Education.

• Standard Curriculum: Students follow the core Kindergarten curriculum with an emphasis on both academic and developmental growth.

• Individualized Support: We provide all necessary accommodations, modifications, and related services as outlined in a student’s IEP.

• The Goal: Ensuring every child is confidently prepared for the transition to First Grade.

Location & Eligibility

• Location: Oak Knoll Early Childhood Center (2 dedicated classrooms).

• Who Can Join: The program is open to all Kindergarten-eligible students from all three district elementary schools.

The Transitional Kindergarten program at Oak Knoll Early Childhood Center is a full-day, specialized classroom designed for students who benefit from an intentional, adjusted pace. This program supports children with developmental delays, speech/language concerns, or information-processing needs.

The Transitional Kindergarten Advantage

• Pacing & Repetition: We minimize transitions and maximize time for skill support and repetition to ensure students truly master the curriculum.

• Tailored Academics: While aligned with Illinois Learning Standards, our instruction is differentiated. We blend the district’s core Kindergarten curriculum with supplementary tools to meet each child’s unique IEP goals.

• Integrated Services: Related services—such as Speech, OT, PT, and Social Work—are built directly into the classroom day, providing a seamless support experience.

Connection & Inclusion

We believe in the power of peer interaction. TK students participate in "specials" (Art, Music, PE), lunch, and recess with the general education Kindergarten classes. Many students also join the inclusive Full-Day Kindergarten program for shared center-time activities.

Planning for First Grade

The TK year is a bridge. Upon completion, the IEP Team works with families to determine the best next step, which may include:

• General Education First Grade at the student’s home school (with supports).

• A Specialized District Program tailored to continued learning needs.

This specialized program supports elementary and junior high students who require a therapeutic, self-contained setting to thrive. By focusing on the "whole child," we ensure that emotional well-being and academic progress go hand-in-hand. 

Locations: Three Oaks Elementary & Cary Jr. High

Program Pillars

• Targeted Academics: Students follow the standard Cary District 26 curriculum in a small-group setting. We emphasize study skills and provide dedicated homework support, with modifications made per each student's IEP.

• Social-Emotional Core: Every student participates in both individual and group counseling. We utilize a point/level system to help students track their own progress and earn privileges, fostering self-regulation and accountability.

• Pathways to Inclusion: Our goal is always to return students to the general education setting whenever possible. This includes opportunities for core classes, specials, lunch, and recess with their peers.

• Pro-Social Growth: Students engage in social skill-building, such as serving as "peer buddies," to practice positive interactions in a safe environment.

Expert Staffing

The Bridge Program is powered by a multidisciplinary team, including:

• Core Team: Specialized Teacher, Paraprofessionals, and a dedicated Social Worker.

• Support Network: Regular consultation from the School Psychologist and Behavior Specialist.

• Related Services: Access to Speech/Language, OT, PT, and Vision/Hearing specialists as required by the IEP. 

Note on Placement: The Bridge Program is specifically designed for students with social/emotional concerns. It is generally not intended for students with severe behavioral needs, ensuring the environment remains therapeutic and focused for all participants.

The TLC program is designed for students who require intensive, individualized support across multiple domains. By blending academic rigor with functional life skills, we help students navigate their school, home, and community environments with confidence.

Locations: Deer Path Elementary (K–5) & Cary Jr. High (6–8)

Program Pillars

• Specialized Instruction: We utilize proven methodologies, including Discrete Trial Training (DTT), TEACCH, and Visual Schedules, to deliver a curriculum aligned with Illinois Learning Standards.

• Functional Life Skills: Students practice independent functioning, safety awareness, and vocational skills (such as multi-step tasks and school-based "jobs") to prepare for life beyond the classroom.

• Communication & Technology: We emphasize functional communication through small-group tasks and the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technology to ensure every student has a voice.

• Sensory Regulation: Using tools like "How Does Your Engine Run?", we teach students to recognize their sensory needs and use self-regulation strategies to stay focused and engaged.

Inclusion & Connection

Inclusion is tailored to each student’s unique strengths. Opportunities include:

• Academic & Social Inclusion: Participation in general education classes, lunch, recess, and "specials" (Art, Music, PE).

• Buddy Programs: Typical peers visit TLC classrooms to collaborate on activities, fostering a culture of empathy and friendship across the district.

Expert Multidisciplinary Team

Because TLC students often have complex needs, our staff provides a "wrap-around" support system including:

• Specialized Teachers & Paraprofessionals

• Speech, Occupational, and Physical Therapists

• Social Workers, Psychologists, and Behavior Specialists

• Vision, Hearing, and Orientation & Mobility Itinerants 

Our Specialized Resource services provide intensive, targeted support for students in Grades 1–8 who require more individualized instruction and case management than a standard resource setting offers. 

Locations: All District 26 Schools

Who is this for?

This program is designed for students who:

• Are typically two or more years below grade level in Language Arts or Math.

• Require specialized case management for classroom adaptations or non-academic support.

• Have not met expected progress goals in a traditional resource model.

Key Program Features

• Intensive Instruction: Specialized teachers provide 1-on-1 or small-group instruction in Reading, Writing, and Math, tailored to Illinois State Standards.

• Comprehensive Case Management: We provide extensive environmental adaptations and non-academic strategies for students who need a more customized school experience.

• Flexibility: While the focus is on core subjects, the IEP team can approve intensive instruction in other content areas (Science/Social Studies) if needed.

Inclusion & Belonging

We prioritize keeping students connected to their peers:

• Grades 1–5: Students are assigned to a general education homeroom for morning activities, Science, Social Studies, specials, lunch, and recess.

• Grades 6–8: Students follow a personalized Junior High schedule designed to balance specialized support with general education classes.

How Placement Works

Joining the Specialized Resource program is a collaborative process:

1. Data Review: The IEP Team and a Specialized Resource teacher review the student’s current progress and assessment data.

2. Observation: A formal observation of the student in their current learning environment is scheduled.

3. IEP Meeting: The team meets to determine if the student meets the criteria and what specific supports will ensure their success.