Families in
Transition
Private Therapeutic Schools
What are they?
These are private schools that specifically cater to children with disabilities. Classes are led by special education teachers and often have therapy integrated through the day.
What services will they get?
If the school thinks that it is a good place for your child then they will develop a Individualized Intensive Therapy Service Plan (IITSP) based on their evaluation and needs. Most schools provide a large variety of services like OT, PT, speech, and ABA.
How would I get started?
Different schools may have different registration processes. Often websites will have contact information. After you can go visit the school and they may wish to evaluate your child.
How much does it cost?
Again, it will depend on the program. Programs can be paid through insurance if you are in network with them. You can also pay out of pocket. If the public school decides a therapeutic school is best then they will pay.
Who are these schools for?
Private therapeutic schools are often geared towards children with autism, with approaches such as ABA. However these schools often accept children with a variety of disabilities and needs.
Examples:
-
CST Academy
-
The Place for children with Autism
-
BlueBird day school
-
LEEP forward therapeutic preschool
-
Chicago Therapeutic Children's Academy
-
EasterSeals Academy
Pros
Cons
Strong community of other families in similar situations
Private schools even therapeutic ones don't have the same rights under the law as public schools.
Therapy is integrated into the school day
No general education peers
Often more focus on self help skills
Generally requires payment
Often more support for behavioral/emotional needs
No transportation offered
Often have many resources and services to offer
Often requires transition to public school at some point.