Best Special Needs Schools in Wheeling, Illinois (2026)

Alexander Graham Bell Montessori School in Wheeling combines Montessori classrooms with a full-inclusion program for children with language, hearing and speech needs. Children learn alongside hearing peers while teachers use individual and small-group instruction to build language, literacy and academic skills. The school uses Cued Speech to supplement spoken English, especially when listening becomes difficult or children encounter new ideas. Certified teachers of the deaf, a speech-language pathologist and a special education teacher work with Montessori classroom staff. They provide on-site educational and therapeutic support according to a child's IEP or IFSP. Illinois has approved the school to serve children who are deaf or hard of hearing and children with speech and language delays through age 15. Programs run from infant and toddler classrooms through preschool, kindergarten, elementary and middle school. The 2026–27 enrollment window covers ages six weeks to 15 years. Families can also ask about summer programs, before- and after-school enrichment, and state-funded infant/toddler or Pre-K for All places for eligible children. The school is at 9300 Capitol Drive; contact the school to arrange a visit or ask about enrollment.

• School
• deaf or hard of hearing
• Speech therapy
• Montessori

The Learning House is an ISBE-approved nonpublic special education day school in Wheeling for students ages 12 to 21 who qualify for special education under emotional disability, specific learning disability, other health impairment, or autism. Many of our students arrive after limited success in their public high schools, and we have more than 25 years of experience helping them return to their home schools or graduate. We opened a middle school program for grades 6 to 8 in response to requests from districts and families. Our classes use mastery learning: students finish each assignment at 80 percent or better before moving on. Teachers hold LBS1 licenses, and electives include autos, woodshop, foods, art, and computers. Students vote with staff in morning meetings on day-to-day rules, and each high schooler builds a post-graduation transition plan through our work program. Every student meets weekly with an assigned therapist, joins group counseling such as Zones of Regulation and social skills, and takes part in monthly family therapy. Our clinicians hold LCSW, MSW, or LMFT licenses. Students compete in the Chicago Area Alternative Education League, and our extended school year adds outdoor education.

• Private special education day school (6-12, to age 21)
• Emotional/behavioral support
• Learning differences
• Other health impairments