Academy

Where Belonging Begins

Family Resources

About Clare Woods Academy

Clare Woods Academy is a therapeutic day school serving students ages 5–22 with diverse developmental, behavioral, communication, and learning needs.

Through individualized instruction, integrated therapies, low student-to-staff ratios, and a highly collaborative approach, we create an environment where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow.

Our team works closely with families to help each student build communication, regulation, social, academic, and life skills in ways that honor their unique strengths and goals. Beyond the classroom, students participate in school traditions, community experiences, and enrichment opportunities that foster confidence, connection, and belonging.

At Clare Woods Academy, students are more than learners—they are valued members of a community that believes in their potential.

A young man in a yellow graduation gown and cap holding a diploma at a graduation ceremony, with seated attendees and audience clapping in the background.
Group of nine people in colorful traditional clothing and accessories standing in a school hallway decorated with international flags.
Two smiling men at an art exhibit, one wearing a gray shirt with rolled-up sleeves and the other in a black graduation gown and yellow stole, holding a colorful mosaic art piece. Colorful artwork hangs on display behind them.

Our Mission

At Clare Woods Academy, we empower students of all abilities through individualized education, therapeutic support, and meaningful relationships that help them grow with confidence, belong in community, and achieve their fullest potential. We envision a future where every student is understood, valued, and equipped with the skills, opportunities, and support needed to thrive both in school and beyond.

95+

Students Served Annually

Students ages 5–22 receive individualized educational and therapeutic support designed to help them grow, communicate, connect, and thrive

100%

Demonstrate Growth

Every student makes measurable progress toward their individualized goals through personalized instruction, integrated therapies, and consistent support.

3:1

Average Student-to-Staff Ratio

Highly individualized support allows our team to respond proactively, build meaningful relationships, and help students remain engaged, regulated, and successful throughout the school day.

7

Counties Served

Families from DuPage, Cook, Kane, Kendall, Will, DeKalb, and Winnebago Counties trust Clare Woods Academy to provide specialized support, meaningful opportunities, and a place where students belong.

Student Spotlights


A young man with short hair, wearing a green and white shirt and large headphones, sitting at a long white table outdoors at a community event. He is smiling and holding a snack. On the table in front of him, there is a juice box, a black device, and a phone. Behind him, other people are seated at the table, eating, talking, and enjoying the event.

Matthew

“For the first time, our son was in a place where he could truly be himself. He became happier, more confident, formed meaningful friendships, and discovered new interests. Clare Woods is more than a school—it’s a community where he is understood, valued, and truly belongs.”


A young man with light brown hair wearing a red and blue sports jersey, sitting at a table with plastic containers filled with small objects, inside a room with artwork on the walls and bright ceiling lights.

Dylan

“For the first time, we’ve seen our son truly believe that he can do hard things. The confidence, relationships, and continuity of support he has found at Clare Woods have transformed not only his educational experience, but our family’s outlook on the future.”


A young smiling boy in a white shirt, holding drumsticks and playing on a drum decorated with snowmen and snowflakes.

Sebastian

“At Clare Woods, our son learned more than academics—he learned how to recognize and manage his emotions, participate in everyday experiences, and build confidence. Most importantly, he feels supported, included, and accepted for who he is.”


Child smiling and playing on playground, looking through a circular opening in a green structure.

Wesley

“Every parent wants to know their child is understood, safe, happy, and surrounded by people who see their potential. Clare Woods has given that to our family. For the first time, we feel like we have a trusted team helping us navigate the future instead of facing it alone.”

Staff Resources