Best Special Needs Schools in Lisle, Illinois (2026)

Giant Steps is an acclaimed, ISBE-approved therapeutic day school and adult service organization located in Lisle, Illinois, serving students and families across the Chicago metropolitan area. Founded in 1996, Giant Steps is dedicated exclusively to individuals on the Autism Spectrum from early childhood through adulthood (ages 5 to 22 in day school, and beyond in adult programming). The school provides an intensive, highly structured environment with a 1:1 or 2:1 student-to-staff ratio, blending individual academic instruction with comprehensive therapeutic modalities, including speech-language therapy, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), occupational therapy, music therapy, and recreational therapy. Giant Steps emphasizes functional communication, life skills, sensory integration, and vocational preparation across state-of-the-art facilities, life-skills training suites, and the Canopy Adult Day Program.

• Special education school
• Autism
• Nonverbal & Complex Communication Needs
• Sensory support

Welcome to SASED, the School Association for Special Education in DuPage County, dedicated to maximizing student outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Established in 1957, SASED serves a diverse population of students from Pre K to age 22, providing a supportive and inclusive educational environment that fosters growth and development. SASED offers a comprehensive range of programs and services tailored to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. Key offerings include specialized educational programs, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups. The school employs evidence-based methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the Orton-Gillingham approach to enhance learning experiences. Additionally, SASED provides mental health resources to support students' social-emotional development, ensuring a holistic approach to education. What sets SASED apart is its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with a low student-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention and support. The campus is equipped with specialized technology to aid learning, and vocational training programs are available to prepare students for future employment. SASED also emphasizes community integration and offers summer programs to maintain engagement and learning throughout the year.

• Special education school
• disabilities
• Private school