Small School, Big Impact

A new learning hub is opening its doors for kids in Ogle and Lee counties who need a different classroom vibe. The place is called the Chana Education Center, and it’s built to help students who face anxiety, trauma, or learning differences thrive. Instead of a huge lecture hall, Chana offers a tight‑knit environment where every student gets clear routines and one‑on‑one help. Teachers use the state curriculum but also weave in social‑emotional lessons and therapy so kids can manage feelings, talk well, solve problems, and stay on track. People often think alternative schools are only for the most disruptive students. That’s not true here. Most children who go to Chana simply need a classroom that looks and feels different so they can succeed. The goal is steady academic growth, skill building, and readiness for the next step—whether that’s back in a regular school or stepping into life after high school.The staff listen closely to families, local schools, and community groups. By keeping everyone in the loop, they create a shared plan that matches each student’s unique needs. Success is measured in many ways; sometimes the biggest wins are tiny seeds that sprout months later, not just test scores. Chana’s team is made up of teachers, a principal named Lynn Kalnins, an assistant principal Stephanie White, and social workers Ronelia Gruber and Morgan Peterson. Together they support the kids academically and emotionally. Beyond classroom work, students tackle real‑world projects, collaborate on problem‑solving tasks, and join community activities. These experiences help them see how their learning matters to the world around them. Parents and guardians get regular updates, so everyone stays on the same page about goals and progress. The center’s main aim is to set students up for whatever comes next, whether that means rejoining their home school or moving forward after graduation.