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Students learning together in a classroom at Black Bear Academy
SchoolChicago, IL
Verified provider

Black Bear Academy

Grades and ages

Grades PreK-5

Student-teacher ratio

3:1

Tuition

Contact School for Program Tuition and Clinical Insurance Billing Information

A teacher supporting a young student at Black Bear Academy
A teacher supporting a young student
School staff gathered outside at Black Bear Academy
School staff gathered outside
A teacher and child on the playground at Black Bear Academy
A teacher and child on the playground

About Black Bear Academy

Black Bear Academy is an esteemed therapeutic day school and clinical pediatric practice located in Chicago's Lakeview/North Center neighborhood. Founded in 2003, Black Bear Academy provides intensive therapeutic education and early intervention for children ages 18 months through 10 years with speech-language delays, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, and sensory motor challenges. With low 3:1 classroom ratios, the academy bridges the gap between clinical therapy and academic schooling by integrating speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and academic instruction into a cohesive daily schedule. Black Bear Academy prepares young learners for long-term academic success through structured early childhood, therapeutic kindergarten, and lower elementary classrooms.

Student fit

Who this school serves

Grades and ages

  • Toddler / Early Intervention
  • Preschool
  • Kindergarten
  • Grades 1-3
  • Preschool (Ages 2-5)
  • Elementary (K-5)

Learning needs supported

  • autism spectrum disorders
  • developmental delays
  • language-based learning disabilities

Specialties

  • Developmental Delays
  • Speech & Language Impairments
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Sensory Processing Disorders
  • Fine and Gross Motor Deficits

Learning and support

Curriculum and therapeutic services

Services and supports

  • Speech-Language Pathology
  • Occupational Therapy & Sensory Integration
  • Physical Therapy
  • Behavioral Therapy & Consultation
  • Feeding Therapy
  • Social Skills Groups

Programs

Programs at Black Bear Academy

Other programs and supports

  • Speech-Language Pathology
  • Occupational Therapy & Sensory Integration
  • Physical Therapy
  • Behavioral Therapy & Consultation
  • Feeding Therapy
  • Social Skills Groups

School facts

Practical details for families

Accreditation and licensing

  • State Registered Early Childhood & Therapeutic Center

Tuition and funding

Tuition: Contact School for Program Tuition and Clinical Insurance Billing Information

  • Private Pay
  • Health Insurance Reimbursement for Clinical Therapies (Speech, OT, Behavioral)

More school photos

A child participating in a classroom activity at Black Bear Academy
A child participating in a classroom activity

Visit us

Location and directions

Map

Physical address

1801 W Byron St, Chicago, IL 60613

Get directions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Black Bear Academy

What makes Black Bear Academy unique in early childhood education?

Black Bear Academy combines clinical pediatric therapy with early childhood education under one roof. Therapists and teachers co-treat in the classroom, ensuring speech, motor, and regulation goals are practiced naturally throughout daily academic routines.

What ages and grade levels are offered at Black Bear Academy?

The academy serves children ages 18 months through 10 years, offering toddler transition, preschool, kindergarten, and lower elementary grade programs alongside outpatient pediatric therapies.

Can families use insurance for services at Black Bear Academy?

Yes. Black Bear Academy works with families to bill commercial health insurance plans for eligible clinical services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.

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