New Therapeutic Day School Coming to Algonquin

A new therapeutic day school for grades K-12 looks like it will get the go-ahead to open in Algonquin this fall.

The School of Expressive Arts and Learning appeared before the committee of the whole last week seeking approval to develop a new location at 2654 Corporate Parkway.

Karen Larson, director of student services for the school, said the School of Expressive Arts and Learning is an alternative school for students who may be emotionally disturbed, learning disabled, mentally impaired, autistic or may have other health impairments such as attention deficit disorder.

There are two locations in Lombard and Romeoville, both of which have been there for eight years, Larson said.

The School of Expressive Arts and Learning is open to any student whose parents have jointly decided with the school district that it is the right option for the child, Larson said.

Students who would attend the school would be bused to and from the school.

Larson said the cost of attendance is paid by the student’s respective school district based on a daily rate set by the Illinois Purchased Care Review Board, according to an article in the Daily Herald. The Illinois State Board of Education then reimburses the school district.

If passed, Larson said the school would bring 15 new jobs to Algonquin.

The is expected to make its final decision at its Sep. 6 meeting.