Best Special Needs Schools in Lake In The Hills, Illinois (2026)

Huntley Community School District 158 is dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive educational environment for a diverse range of students, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. The district's core mission is to foster academic excellence while ensuring that all students feel valued and empowered. Through a variety of key programs, the district employs innovative teaching methodologies and therapeutic approaches tailored to meet individual needs, promoting both academic achievement and personal growth. What sets Huntley 158 apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and stronger relationships between educators and families. Additionally, the district emphasizes community collaboration through specialized facilities and engaging events that bring families together, creating a nurturing atmosphere where every child can thrive.

• Elementary school
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Public school

Parkland Preparatory Academy is a therapeutic school in Lake in the Hills for elementary and secondary students with disabilities who have not found success in a traditional public school. Individualized instruction follows each student's IEP, and licensed social workers, clinical counselors, and psychologists deliver individual and group counselling as part of the school day. Program therapists track progress against each student's goals. A virtual academy option serves students with intense social-emotional and behavioral needs who cannot yet manage a campus setting. Beyond academics there are daily living skills groups, a volunteer work program, boys' and girls' groups, an annual college and career fair, and an anti-bullying assembly. Referrals come through a public school district representative, and students arriving without an IEP receive a diagnostic evaluation of up to 60 days.

• Education center
• social-emotional needs
• behavioral needs
• Private school