Marklund Day School provides high-quality education - and peace of mind - for student and family

For Ann and Mike Hacker, Marklund Day School in Bloomingdale provides more than a high-quality education for their son, Tad. It provides peace of mind, knowing he is in capable hands.

"Marklund is a comforting place," Ann said. "All of the staff have a high skill level. We don't have to explain medical terms - they understand them. We know when Tad goes to school, he will be well-taken care of."

Tad, 17, who has cerebral palsy, has attended Marklund for the past five years, and is currently in the high school multi-needs classroom.

In addition to receiving an individualized education program, which includes technology-based curriculum (individualized iPads, voice-output switches, assistive-adaptive technology and more) and sensory-integrated programming, Tad receives health services through Marklund Day School's highly qualified nursing staff.

"Medically, other school programs couldn't compare," Ann said. "We have to pinch ourselves sometimes - it's huge. Marklund takes Tad's care seriously and provides great support."

In fact, the Hackers credit Marklund Day School staff for saving Tad's life after he collapsed in his classroom a few years ago.

"Tad may not have survived had Marklund staff not been trained," Ann recalled. "We were really lucky."

When Tad returned to school a few months later with a tracheostomy tube, it "didn't faze his teachers at all. It's amazing to think of that," Ann said.

"Tad's story exemplifies how Marklund Day School meets the needs of students who have significant medical needs," said Paula Bodzioch, director of education. "Parents entrust their child with us. We are in constant communication with parents. That collaboration is a key reason why our students do so well in our program."

"All of the teachers and staff have a good rapport with every student," Ann said. "They know what makes each student smile."

Every now and then, the Hackers get a surprise when looking at photos taken during Marklund school events and activities.

"Sometimes, we can see Tad in the background, smiling and interacting with others," Mike said. "It's a sign that the school is working."

Giving back to Marklund

To show their appreciation, the Hackers and their extended family recently gave financial gifts to Marklund, in honor of Tad's birthday.

In addition, Ann has played an instrumental role in forming the Marklund Parent Teacher Organization a couple of years ago, and she currently serves as president.

PTO plans include selling Marklund Day School spirit wear, and recruiting parents to assist with special schoolwide events and activities throughout the year.

"We are so appreciative that Ann pushed to form the PTO," Bodzioch said. "It provides the opportunity for parents to participate in typical school activities, like parties and special events. The PTO also provides another avenue for parents to come to the building to volunteer by making copies, laminating materials and helping in other ways. The PTO allows parents to be part of a community."

"It's an opportunity to give back," Ann said. "The PTO is a place of belonging for Marklund Day School parents. It's a place where they can get to know and support one another."

Marklund Day School is a nonpublic Illinois State Board of Education approved program that provides high-quality individualized educational and vocational programming for students, ages 3-21, with mild to complex disabilities, including autism. Learn more at www.marklund.org.