02-06-2025
Peoria's Michelle Taylor focuses on trauma-sensitive learning
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — A trailblazer in education focusing on a trauma-sensitive and human-centered approaches for Peoria-area students.
Michelle Taylor is the Vice President of Education at the Children's Home Association of Illinois (CHAIL) in Peoria. She oversees Kiefer School and the Academy for Autism.
Both schools serve students with autism from diverse backgrounds, providing them with a safe place to grow and navigate their challenges. We are equipped to address each student's individual needs and ensure they receive the tools necessary for success. This includes individualized therapeutic learning environments, grouping students with similar needs within classrooms, providing readily accessible special sensory items, and offering additional sensory rooms, while maintaining a 2:1 student ratio.
Michelle Taylor
For two decades, she's remained committed and dedicated to students and staff helping them to thrive in the face of adversity.
'Kids have a future that is worth fighting for,' said Taylor. 'I think the impact that we have is seen when kids begin to thrive after they've been here with us but the impact is something that will last for decades.'
She said leadership, engagement, and growth are pivotal for students to be able to feel empowered to learn in a safe environment. Taylor continues to transform education at the agency, but her reach goes into the community as well.
'Education opens doors,' said Taylor. 'It provides a future that helps students, families, it helps all people. I think the reason I got into education was because some of the most important people in my life in my past were educators.'
School hallways and classroom may sit empty in June, but Taylor said planning and advocating for students and staff continues year round. Students who attend either school can also be provided with wraparound services provided under the umbrella of CHAIL.
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