Our Mission: A School of Hope
Joseph Academy is a school serving the needs of young people with severe behavioral, emotional, and learning disabilities. Our program strives to give hope to our students to become successful in their learning environment, by helping them develop the social, academic and vocational skills they need to function successfully in society.
Joseph Academy provides an environment that is both nurturing and challenging. We seek to build students’ self-esteem and productivity through a therapeutic program in which staff members constantly express respect and affection for them. The ultimate goal is to transform these young people into achievers who can effectively reenter the mainstream.
Joseph Academy in the News
Mike Shack featured in Notre Dame's "We Are ND" Alumni page: Turning Young Lives Around
Joseph Academy's Anniversary in the Chicago Tribune: Joseph Academy Celebates 30th Anniversary
Impact
Research shows that the unique environment at Joseph Academy brings about the highest level of success while serving a population of socially, emotionally and behaviorally challenged students in the Chicagoland Area. Read more here.
3,000+ Students
Served
Throughout its' history, Joseph Academy has provided special education to over 3,000 students in 50 Illinois school districts.
50%+ Students
Behind by 3 Grades
When students enter Joseph Academy, 50% are behind by 3 grades in reading and math and show a history of multiple school settings. Many also face mental health diagnosis, community or family violence, and substance abuse.
Consistently Higher
Graduation Rates
A recent study shows that a higher percentage of Joseph Academy students graduate from high school than the averages provided by the National Association of Private Special Education Centers in Washington DC.