Speed SEJA District #802

Congratulations to the Program for Adaptive Learning staff of the month for March 2026!

Annalie Madsen
Ronald McDowell
Tim Ehrenfeld

Congratulations to the Early Learning Center staff of the month for March 2026!

Danielle Frias
Jefferson Clamor
Kristin Paul

🏀 From the Big Ten to Eagles Court! 🦅

A huge thank you to the NCAA and Big Ten Senior Vice President Brad Taylor for supporting our IES students with the donation of basketballs! As March Madness approaches, our students are even more excited to hit the court.

Your thoughtful contribution gives our students greater opportunities to engage in one of their favorite sports while building important life skills like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.

We appreciate your support of our students and our school community. The Eagles are ready to play!

"Attention job seekers! Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Join us at the SPEED District 802 Community Job Fair! Connect with us here at SPEED District 802, explore exciting opportunities, and discover your path to success.

When: March 27, 2026
Where:1125 Division Street, Chicago Heights, IL 60411, In the Independence Gymnasium
Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Whether you're looking for your first job, a career change, or just want to network, this is the place to be. Don’t miss out your future starts here at SPEED District 802!"

SPEED will be hosting a Transition Expo on Friday, March 27 from 2:30pm - 5:00pm at the SPEED campus.

To register, click the link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfAMWBsFCHQT7BlHPYEls32Z1xPj1n2TFW9dozdKWsndSVkRQ/viewform

Each year, schools across Illinois celebrate Respect Week. We take pride in participating here at SPEED! This celebration is derived from the Spread the Word Campaign that originally worked to promote the end of using derogatory terms to describe people with disabilities. This campaign now focuses on inclusion for people with disabilities. In Illinois, we celebrate “Respect for All” each year to promote respect for all students with disabilities.

Check out who was hanging out with Principal Kafele discussing leadership; SPEED's own Director of Programs and Services, Bridgette McNeal! You can watch the session with the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/live/B9lKnDd0rbc?si=zwF_kaFpDYvZ3P9L

The SPEED building is all decked out in celebration of Black History Month. Beautiful work, Early Learning Center, Program for Adaptive Learning, and Independence Elementary!

Congratulations to the Early Learning Center's Staff of the Month for February 2026!

Alexis Castillo
Gay Carreon
Mae Shelton

Congratulations to the Program for Adaptive Learning staff of the month for February!

Nicole Jackson
Iron Gantan
Alease Prude

Congratulations to the Academy for Lifelong Learning staff of the month for February 2026 - Linda Love-Robinson!

Selected students of IES that are on the higher academic & behavioral levels, were taken on a special trip to CLIMB ON in Flossmoor on Tuesday. Rock climbing connects to SEL by teaching students' perseverance, self-regulation, and problem-solving as they navigate challenges one hold at a time. It also builds trust, communication, and confidence as students support one another and reflect on their strengths and growth. We had a wonderful time creating this experience for our students. Thanks Ms. Hillis and the owners of Climb On- https://www.climbonrockgym.com/.

Congratulations to Independence Elementary Staff of the Month for January 2026!

Hannah Kelly
Rick Garren
Sherri Flowers

Congratulations to the Early Learning Center Staff of the Month for January 2026!

Edgar Austero
Keith Denton
Tremia Davis

Congratulations to the Program for Adaptive Learning (PAL) Staff of the month of January!

Cleofe Gutana
Laura Zomparelli
Aryss Gayden

This month, we proudly celebrate Mr. Timothy Perry! Although this is Mr. Perry’s first year at the Academy, he has quickly become an integral part of our school family. His calm and patient demeanor has brought a sense of peace and stability to our students and staff alike. Mr. Perry demonstrates a deep understanding of the needs of our Transition students and works diligently to support them in reaching their personal and vocational goals. His positive attitude and commitment to student success truly reflect the spirit of the Academy.

Independence Elmentary School (IES): Staff & Student of the Month-October

IES celebrates our staff and students of the month that have shown RESPECT: meaning treating others with kindness and consideration. These winners were selected by their peers because they are always respectful to others, and they create a positive environment where everyone feels heard and appreciated. Congratulations to Mr. Holmes, Mrs. White, and Eric Nelson

SPEED is kicking off Spirit Week and the Independence Elementary Staff are looking fresh in their school shirts!

Check out Independece Elementary School's October Activities!

Halloween Parade:
To wrap up the month, we enjoyed our annual Halloween Parade, filled with fun costumes and smiles, and cheered on our athletes during flag football games.


Speed 802 Petting Zoo:
A special highlight was our student petting zoo, which provided hands-on, sensory experiences that connected beautifully with our SPED students’ learning goals. The joy and engagement on their faces reminded us of the power of interactive, inclusive learning moments that reach every child.

Congratulations to the Early Learning Center staff of the month for November 2025!

Teacher - Reiden Guarin
Paraprofessional - Angola McRae
Related Service Provider - Debbie Kuhnhoffer