New Connections - Palatine (Parent of a Currently Enrolled Student)
My child has been enrolled at NCA Palatine since 2020, and the school has truly been a game changer. Before coming to NCA, my child attended two of the top public school SPED programs in the area -- from push-in to pull-out services, and even self-contained classrooms. Unfortunately, not all students can thrive in their home school environment due to challenges like integration with the general education population, the level of support needed, and the availability of specialized staff.
After doing extensive research on outplacement options, I chose NCA Palatine. Like any major transition, the adjustment took time. I questioned myself, the district, and even the NCA staff on more than one occasion. But every time, I received reassurance, thoughtful feedback, and clear action steps that led to real, meaningful improvements.
Success at this school truly depends on collaboration between all parties involved, and the staff here genuinely understands that. They actively seek family input and value parent perspectives. Class sizes are small -- typically no more than 10 students -- with one teacher and two program assistants. Beyond the classroom, there's a strong team of support professionals, including multiple therapists, behavior specialists (RIS), and an outstanding administrative team.
Without a doubt, this school has had the most significant impact on my child's education and development. For the first time in our child's life, we've found a community that genuinely cares and is committed to making the world a better place for our kids read more