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
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.
Enrolled Students School Information Center
Access the latest school calendars, news, forms, policies, and family resources for current students.
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
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.