Therapeutic Day School

Individualized Education.

Supporting students in reaching their full potential to lead fulfilling, independent lives.
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Esperanza Therapeutic Day School aims to provide support for special education students in Illinois by developing individualized educational programs for students aged 5 through 21 years old. At Esperanza, our interdisciplinary team of special education professionals teaches academic, behavioral, communication, functional daily living, and social-
emotional skills in order to support our students in reaching their highest level of independence.

Our Mission

Esperanza Community Services empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential by fostering independence, inclusion, and personal growth. Through compassionate support, innovative programs, and collaborative community partnerships, we strive to create opportunities that enhance the quality of life for those we serve and their families.

A Program You Can Trust

Approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), we serve students with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries, health impairments, and emotional needs.

Using Applied Behavior Analysis

Esperanza tailors plans for each student and employs Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to reduce maladaptive behaviors while promoting social alternatives. With a high staff-to-student ratio, we provide both individual and small group instruction, with the assistance of both BCBAs and RBTs, for optimal learning.

Support You Can Trust

Additionally, our related services team (Social Work, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy) provides direct skill instruction integrated inside and outside of the classroom, as well as in the community.

Learn more about PUNS

What is PUNS?

PUNS (Prioritization for Urgency of Need for Services) is a statewide database in Illinois that records individuals with developmental disabilities who need or are planning for services. The state uses this data to allocate funding, develop budgets, and plan for future service needs.

Why enroll in PUNS?

• Helps identify and register individuals needing services

• Ensures that the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is aware of the individual’s service needs

Who can enroll?

Children, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities who need or want services. The earlier you enroll in PUNS, the better your chances of receiving essential services when they become available.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Enrolling in PUNS does not guarantee eligibility or receipt of services but ensures that IDHS is aware of an individual’s service needs. Families need to contact the Intake Department at 773-867-4000 to learn more about PUNS enrollment.

Additional Resources

Through small class sizes, individualized instruction, and a supportive learning environment, we help students build skills, gain independence, and prepare for life beyond the classroom. Below you’ll find additional information and resources for families.

All student referrals start with your child’s IEP team. However, if you are interested in learning more about Esperanza School and scheduling a tour, please contact School Principal Anne Hellmer, Ed.S., NCSP, at ahellmer@esperanzaschool.org.

What enrollment looks like

Student’s IEP is sent to Esperanza’s team, either by the parent or by the student’s home school

 

  • Esperanza’s team reviews the student’s IEP and determines if Esperanza School is able to provide the services outlined within
  • Esperanza will work with the student’s home school to schedule a parent tour and answer any questions regarding the program.
  • Esperanza will work with the student’s home school to arrange daily transportation to and from school
  • Student will begin attending Esperanza
School Policies
Learning Links
  • ABCYA: Online educational games broken down by grade level and subject
  • The Artful Parent: Painting, drawing, dough-making activity ideas to incorporate at home
  • BBC BiteSize: Contains videos, games, and activities
  • Fun Brain: Videos, games, math activities and electronic books for different grade levels
Support Services
Transportation Resources

Chicago Public Schools
Any issues with transportation, contact CPS Transportation department directly at 773-553-2860.

Caravan Transportation Inc.
4610 W Washington Blvd,
Chicago, IL 60644
(773)309-8212
Fax: (773)877-5117
Contact: Ernist
Routes: 56, 60

First Student Inc. / Falcon
1207 Greenwood Ave,
Maywood, IL 60153
(773) 638-8000
Fax: (773) 638-6947
Contact: Brad Tate
Routes: 51, 52, 53, 55, 57, 61

A.M Bus Compant Inc.
100 W 91st St,
Chicago, IL 60620
(773) 396-5556
Contact: Aaron Walters
Routes: 54, 59

Illinois Central
9901 Sayre Ave,
Chicago Ridge, IL 60415
(773) 924-5840
Contact: Raymond or Maurice
Routes: 58

Curious about Esperanza’s Programs & Services?

Looking for more information? Reach out to us at info@esperanzacommunity.org