School Programs
NEDSRA works cooperatively with 52 schools in 18 different school districts. Through the EXCEL program and Afterschool programs, students with disabilities are identified and introduced to a variety of quality programs. Our major services for schools include Experiential Community Education and Leisure (EXCEL), Ability Awareness, and DuPage Pro League which are detailed below:
Experiential Community Education and Leisure (EXCEL)
The EXCEL program was developed to assist in the development of healthy and beneficial leisure interests for students and also to assist teachers in specific areas, by offering activities that reinforce curriculum concepts in a fun way.
NEDSRA offers several popular programs in cooperation with schools in our member
partner communities, such as:
| Maps & Metra | Pen Pals | Weird Science |
| Pet Therapy | Go Green | And so much more! |
| Art Therapy | Zoo Troop |
Ability Awareness
NEDSRA also offers a hands-on, interactive program that educates children about people with disabilities, focusing on what people with disabilities are able to do with adaptive equipment and special assistance.
Four Learning Stations used in Ability Awareness Programs
- Physically Challenged
- Mentally Challenged
- Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Visually Impaired
Our program provides specific benefits, such as:
- Education about causes and characteristics of various disabilities
- Hands-on experience that simulates what it is like to have a disability
- A greater understanding and awareness of people with disabilities
- Increased level of acceptance of peers who may have disabilities
Benefits of School Programs
Educator Benefits
| Reinforce concepts being taught in the classroom. |
| Alternative teaching method combining play and exploration. |
| Supportive of Illinois Learning Standards (ILS). |
| Affordable programs with transportation included. |
| NEDSRA staff take care of program details. |
Student Benefits
| Hands-on activities that are fun and educational. |
| Creates awareness of community resources. |
| Assists in physical, social, intellectual and emotional development. |
| Develops healthy leisure interests through leisure education. |
| Community integration. |
For additional information about the EXCEL or Ability Awareness programs, contact Annie Machynia
at (630) 620-4500 x138. Click here to download the latest EXCEL manual.
DuPage PRO League
The PRO League consists of a sports league for students with behavior disorders who have been placed in alternative schools and typically do not have any extracurricular activities. PRO League sports include Flag Football, Volleyball, Basketball, and Softball. Eligibility for participation in PRO League is based on Attendance, Academics, and Behavior.
Educator Benefits
- Improved academic performance
- Higher attendance percentages
- Improved behavior patterns and detterent to delinquency
- Enhanced learning environment
- Creates positive peer pressure
- Motivator for students to succeed
Student Benefits
- Increased self-esteem
- Introduces positive and healthy leisure interests
- Fosters a display of sportsmanship and school spirit
- Improved self-control and decision making
- Develops sense of pride in individual and team accomplishments
- Creates mutual respect between teammates, coaches and opponents
If you would like to see an after-school program at a specific school, contact Carrie Henry, Recreation Coordinator, at (630) 620-4500 x131.