• Zion-Benton Twp. High School District 126 values all of its learners and seeks to meet their individual learning needs so they can grow academically, socially, and emotionally to thrive in and beyond the high school.  In keeping with this commitment, District 126 offers a number of special education programs to ensure all students’ needs are met and supported. Where the district is able to do so, we support students’ needs within the district to help our students remain connected to their school and community.  The table below outlines the programming provided within the district.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Co-Taught District 126 offers co-taught classes within all core content areas, including: Math, Science, Social Science, English, and Health. Classes reflect the general education curriculum but are appropriate for students who need additional support. To provide this additional support, classes are taught by two teachers, one general education and one special education teacher. Special education students who are recommended for co-taught classes have it identified in their Individualized Education Plan.
Teaching Appropriate Behaviors (TAB) District 126 offers two Teaching Appropriate Behavior (TAB) classrooms. Students can be placed in the TAB program for up to five periods a day due to their need for a variety of behavioral or emotional supports. One TAB classroom services emotionally fragile students, and one classroom services behaviorally challenged students.
Instructional District 126 offers instructional level classes for all the core content areas and some electives. Instructional classes are self-contained special education classes that are aligned to the general education curriculum but are modified for students who might be functioning at a lower level and who require a smaller class setting and additional support.
Supported Instructional Program (SIP) The Supported Instructional Program (SIP) is a cross-categorical, small group instructional program designed to meet the needs of students who have moderate cognitive and specific learning needs who require a highly supportive instructional setting. The program focuses on a modified curriculum with instruction and therapies (speech/language, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social worker, etc.) delivered in small and large group settings. Students do integrate into general education.
Educational Life Skills (ELS) The Educational Life Skills (ELS) Program is a small group instructional program designed to meet the needs of students with moderate to severe cognitive needs. The curriculum focuses on functional life skills, and students will receive instruction in academic, community, and vocational skills.
Transition District 126 offers a community-based transition program that services students who range from 18 up to 22 years of age. The Transition Program is designed to help these students move from high school into adult life. Students are provided with job training, transportation training, and work on various life skills.
Zion-Alternative Program (ZAP) The Zion Alternative Program (ZAP) is designed for students who require a fully self-contained environment for behavior or emotional concerns. This program is designed for students who have a goal of eventually being mainstreamed to the Zion-Benton Twp. High School campus on a full- or part-time basis.
Itinerant Services District 126 offers various itinerant services that are provided to students with unique learning challenges. These services address hearing, vision, and orientation and mobility needs.
Alternative Placements District 126 has partnerships with the Special Education District of Lake County (SEDOL) and a variety of schools that specialize in meeting the needs of students with specific disabilities. These placements are determined through the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process.
Mrs. Emily Waddick

  • Mrs. Emily Waddick
    Department Head for Specialized Services 
    [email protected]
    (847) 731-9713

  • Ms. Pamela Magna
    Department Head for Alternative Programming
    Transition and ZAP
    [email protected]
    (847) 731-4402