Illinois STAR NET is a Support and Technical Assistance Regional NETwork. If you are a professional in the early childhood education community or a parent of a young child with special needs, STAR NET Region II offers assistance and support in many different ways.
For more than 25 years, Illinois STAR NET has been committed to helping young children reach for the stars. STAR NET Region II does that by providing enriching opportunities for professional development and family education. Our offerings for professionals and parents include workshops, training, consultations, and resources such as a well-stocked library, parent support groups, and numerous financial aid opportunities.
STAR NET Region II serves those living or working in North and West Suburban Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, and McHenry Counties.
Illinois STAR NET envisions a future where early childhood professionals and families have the supports needed to provide all children with a high-quality, equitable education in inclusive environments.
STAR NET's mission is to promote:
evidence-based inclusive practices for young children with disabilities.
professional development to support educators and families.
meaningful child outcomes through innovative and engaging learning experiences.
Please explore the STAR NET Region II website to find the resources to help young children learn and grow. Thank you for visiting our website.
REGISTER FOR A WORKSHOP OR WEBINAR
Join us for a workshop or webinar. All trainings are available at no cost. Our Events Calendar offers learning opportunities for professionals, support personnel, and administrators who support students receiving early childhood special education as well as parents or caregivers who live in our five-county region. We work with our Early Childhood Community Focus Group representatives, workshop participants, and the Illinois State Board of Education to identify important and helpful workshop and webinar topics. All trainings meet the professional development criteria for Illinois licensure renewal for those who have teacher licensure or related services, including Speech Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, or Social Work.
Need help researching a special education topic? Explore our wide-ranging learning resources to help you better understand, plan for or collaborate on a child’s educational needs. STAR NET is committed to giving professionals and families the tools they need to help a child grow and succeed. We provide access to the latest information, research, associations, services, and support groups. Our materials are available for viewing online or on loan from our office.
STAR NET Region II staff have the tools and experience to help answer your questions about supporting young children who have special education needs. We can assist you in how to navigate special services or help you learn new curriculum. We are a reliable source of information about your child’s disability and offer support and coaching for professionals and families. Our Resource Specialists are available by phone or email and can facilitate on-site workshops about specific topics.