All referrals start with your student’s IEP team. However, if you are interested in learning more about Esperanza School and scheduling a tour, please contact us below.

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. It also ensures that the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is aware of the

individual’s service needs. 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!

      To determine eligibility, an Independent Service Coordination (ISC) Agent with the Department of Huma Services (DHS) works with the individual and family to identify service needs. To

allow Esperanza to work with PUNS on your child’s behalf, you will need to sign a Release of Information (ROI) form. Individuals are chosen based on age, status (planning or seeking), and

length of time in PUNS. Selection depends on available funding and program vacancies.

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.

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