Best Special Needs Schools in Palos Hills, Illinois (2026)

Oak Ridge School is an elementary school in North Palos School District 117 in Palos Hills, home of the Mustangs. We hold Model Professional Learning Community status, which we renew every three years with data showing continued results, and our teachers work in collaborative teams built around learning and results. Math support is available for grades 2 to 5, and families can submit a social emotional support referral when a child needs extra help. Our students perform as well as study. Oak Ridge and Glen Oaks students have staged Lion King Kids together, and our annual Family Read Night brings Mustangs and their families in for an evening of reading. Breakfast and lunch are free for every student, and a PTA supports school events.

• Public elementary school
• Professional Learning Community model
• Public school

Sorrick School, part of the North Palos School District 117, is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive educational environment tailored for students with diverse learning needs, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The school's core mission emphasizes creating a positive atmosphere that fosters excellence and encourages active participation, ensuring that each student is supported in realizing their full potential as socially responsible lifelong learners. Sorrick School employs a range of innovative programs and therapeutic methodologies designed to address individual learning styles and challenges, promoting both academic success and personal growth. What sets Sorrick apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and strong family partnerships. Additionally, the school hosts unique community events that further enrich the educational experience, making it a distinctive choice for families seeking specialized support for their children.

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