Student 'right at home' at Marklund Day School

After visiting Marklund Day School two years ago, Hortencia and Jose Ibarra told themselves, "This is it."

The Ibarras had been touring schools throughout the Chicago area, searching for a setting that could better meet the educational needs of their daughter, Claudia, 14, who has Down syndrome.

"We didn't feel comfortable with many of schools we visited - we felt like they were trying to sell us something," Jose said. "But when we visited Marklund, we automatically felt comfortable. We saw teachers working one-on-one with students, at their level and ability."

Hortencia recalled how Marklund stood out: "It had a friendly environment and a family feeling," she said. "We had a sense of comfort and security - Claudia instantly felt right at home."

The Ibarras believe the dedication and personalized approach of Marklund teachers and staff make Marklund a perfect school for their daughter.

For example, as Claudia transitioned to Marklund, she had difficulty leaving home and boarding the school bus. To help, Paula Bodzioch and Angela Williams, Marklund's director of education and instructional coach, went to the Ibarra's home to get better acquainted with Claudia and her home environment. They created a plan with visual prompts to help her adjust to her new schedule.

Marklund teachers and staff also worked with Claudia to help her feel more at ease around students who have multi-needs.

"She used to panic when she saw students in wheelchairs - she felt like they were suffering," Hortencia said. "Now when she sees individuals with disabilities out in public, she greets them and no longer is afraid. She has learned that we all have different needs, but we all are the same. She shows great empathy for others."

In addition, the Ibarras have come to appreciate the individualized approach of Marklund Day School. "We trust the teachers and staff," Jose said. "They have taken the time to get to know Claudia and provide the supports she needs to succeed."

Before, the Ibarras struggled to get Claudia to go to school. But now, she gets up and is eager to go. She rides the bus one hour each way, but her parents say it is worth it. "She is very happy," Jose said. "Marklund has made such a big difference."

"I would recommend Marklund to anyone," Hortencia added. "At Marklund, kids come first."

The Marklund Day School is a nonpublic Illinois State Board of Education-approved program in Bloomingdale, Ill., that provides high-quality individualized education and vocational programming for students, ages 3-21 with mild to complex disabilities, including autism.

To learn more about Marklund Day School, visit www.marklund.org.