Top 5 Best Special Needs Schools in Joliet, Illinois (2026)

At Forte Academy Therapeutic Day School in Joliet, we provide an academic environment for students with special needs that recognizes their individual strengths and learning styles. Our vision includes individual support, innovative therapies, academic experiences, independence, and self-advocacy. We accept district referrals for students ages 5–22 whose primary diagnosis is autism.

• Special education school
• Autism
• Private school

Forte Academy Therapeutic Day School serves students ages 5 to 22 whose primary diagnosis is autism, and our Larkin Avenue building is one of two Joliet campuses, alongside our site on West Jefferson Street. Students come to us through referrals from school districts across the Chicago suburbs. Related services are part of the school day. Our team includes special education teachers, paraprofessionals, Board Certified Behavior Analysts and Registered Behavior Technicians, and students receive behavioral therapy under BCBA supervision, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy and social work. We also support students who are deaf or hard of hearing, run sign language activities, and keep a therapy dog on staff. Academic work builds on each student's strengths and learning style, with independence, self-advocacy and acceptance as the goals. Forte is proud to partner with the Keeling Family Foundation and its VetTECH.US program.

• Private therapeutic day school
• Autism
• Deaf and hard of hearing
• Therapeutic program

Hopewell Academy is a dedicated educational institution that has been proudly serving students since 2005. This therapeutic day school focuses on providing transitional, academic, and therapeutic services specifically designed for special needs students. The core mission of Hopewell Academy is to create a safe, nurturing, and predictable environment that fosters the positive, long-term growth of students' academic and emotional lives. Key offerings at Hopewell Academy include a range of specialized programs and therapeutic methodologies tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. These services encompass Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Orton-Gillingham for reading and literacy support, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups. The academy also emphasizes vocational training, preparing students for future employment opportunities and life skills development. What sets Hopewell Academy apart is its commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized attention and support for each child. The campus is designed to be inclusive and accessible, featuring specialized technology to enhance learning experiences. Additionally, the academy offers summer programs and community integration activities, allowing students to engage with their peers and develop essential social skills in a supportive environment.

• Special education school
• Private school
• Therapeutic program

Joseph E. Fisher School is a dedicated educational institution focused on providing a nurturing and supportive environment for students with special needs. The school's core mission is to empower each child to reach their full potential through tailored educational programs and therapeutic interventions. It primarily serves students with a range of disabilities, including developmental delays, learning disabilities, and emotional challenges. The school offers a variety of specialized programs and services designed to meet the unique needs of its students. Key offerings include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for behavior modification, Orton-Gillingham-based instruction for reading difficulties, speech and language therapy to enhance communication skills, and occupational therapy to support daily living skills. Additionally, social skills groups are available to help students develop interpersonal skills and build meaningful relationships. What sets Joseph E. Fisher School apart is its commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized attention and support for each child. The campus is designed to be a safe and engaging environment, equipped with specialized technology to aid learning. The school also emphasizes community integration and offers vocational training programs to prepare students for future independence. With a focus on holistic development, Joseph E. Fisher School is dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere for all its students.

• Special education school
• Developmental delays
• Emotional challenges
• Learning differences

We work with member districts to provide special education programs for students with different learning needs. Our Communication and Adaptive Behavior program serves students from early childhood through eighth grade with structured instruction, functional communication, self-help and social skills, individualized academics, and opportunities to learn alongside peers. We also offer Education and Life Skills programming to help students build independence and prepare for adulthood, plus training and support for families and educators.

• School
• Autism
• Learning differences
• unique learning styles