The Walsh Academy is an opportunity for students requiring a different approach to educational and vocational programming. It strives to provide students with an authentic and experiential learning experience. Our curriculum integrates academics and vocational training in a mediated learning environment utilizing hands-on and cooperative learning instructional strategies.
Walsh Academy is a fully approved ISBE Nonpublic Facility serving male and female students, grades 9-12+, with the following disabilities: emotional disabilities, intellectual disabilities, specific learning disabilities, speech and language disabilities and other health impairments, autism, and multiple disabilities.
Walsh Academy offers students the opportunity to learn the skills they will need when transitioning to the adult world. In addition to the intensive academics and vocational training, students also work on social emotional development, effective communication skills and self-evaluation. Walsh Academy believes in the Jen philosophy that is grounded in developing respectful and reciprocal relationships between students and teachers within their shared learning environment.
We believe Walsh Academy is a unique opportunity for students that have not been successful in any other educational setting. The intensive academic and vocational programming, along with the extended school year programming, affords students the opportunity to accelerate their credit-earning potential toward obtaining a high school diploma. We believe the integration of academic instruction and vocational programming focused on transitioning toward adult independence can serve as the means to reconnect, otherwise disconnected, students with their education.
We are excited to begin working with you and your students in the very near future. If you have any questions about Walsh Academy, please feel free to contact me at your convenience.
For more information please contact: Ann Craig, Ed.D. by email or by phone: 847-390-3020 or 847-390-3030.
What makes Walsh Academy unique?
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Project Based delivery model with emphasis
- Field trips and community-based learning activities integrated into the curriculum
- Curriculum/IEPs aligned to ISBE common core standards
- 21st Century technology integrated into the classrooms, Chrome books, and computer labs, Including a 3D printer computer lab
- Push In Model
- Social worker/school counselor integrated into every classroom
- Each classroom team consists of a special education teacher, social worker/school counselor and a paraprofessional.
- Related services
- School psychologist
- Speech and language
- Nursing services
- Enrichment Programs
- CAAEL-Chicago Area Alternative Education LeaguePet therapyTeam building, “Challenge by Choice” field trips and activities.Garden and greenhouseAll school events/student service learning opportunities
- Student recognition programs
“Here, I feel like I can finally learn in a way that works for me. My teachers understand my challenges and help me find new ways to succeed.” Walsh Academy Student
