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How one suburban district is helping traumatized students succeed

Educators nationwide are recognizing that early psychological traumas can have a huge impact on children’s brain development and learning.

Just how teachers and schools can support students affected by adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, is not quite a science.

That’s where Algonquin-based Community Unit District 300’s new initiative called DREAM Academy — for Dedicated Reinforcement, Engagement And Motivation — comes in.

This school year, roughly 100 students in first through fifth grades at Perry Elementary School in Carpentersville struggling with emotional traumas and behavioral issues are receiving additional support in smaller classroom settings to improve their academic performance and overall health.

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