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Enrollment Process

Welcome!

We’re glad you’re exploring Inspired Learners Academy. Our therapeutic day school partners with local school districts to welcome students who need a specialized, supportive learning environment. Below is a friendly guide to our enrollment process and what you’ll need to get started.

How Students Are Referred:

District referral (typical route):
A student’s school district (special education team) may recommend a therapeutic day placement with Inspired Learners Academy during an IEP meeting or through an inter-district referral.

Parent/guardian referral:
Families may also ask their district to consider ILA as an option for a therapeutic day placement. We’ll work directly with the district and family together.

Step-By-Step Enrollment Process

This is typically completed by the school district representative.

STEP 1: Referral submitted

The district case manager or family completes a referral form and sends current IEP/504 documents and evaluations to our Admissions Team. 

STEP 2: Admissions review & intake call
Our Admissions Coordinator reviews records and schedules a short intake call with the family and district rep to clarify needs and answer questions. 
STEP 3: On-site observation & assessment
A member of our clinical/teaching team conducts an observation to determine if the student is a good fit for ILA.  
STEP 4: IEP/placement meeting
We join the district, family, and school team for an IEP meeting to discuss proposed goals, services, and a proposed start date at Inspired Learners Academy. 
STEP 5: Enrollment paperwork & onboarding
After placement is approved, families complete enrollment forms, consent and medical forms, and coordinate transportation with the district if applicable. 
STEP 6: First day & transition planning
We develop a transition plan (including an orientation schedule) to ensure a successful start and warmly welcome your student on their first day. 

Typical Timeline

Every case is unique. From initial referral to first day, the process often takes several weeks depending on district scheduling and required assessments. We’ll communicate clearly at each step and aim to make the transition smooth.

What to Expect from Our Program

  • Individualized academic instruction aligned to each student’s IEP
  • Daily therapeutic supports (speech, occupational therapy, behavioral supports) embedded in the day
  • Ongoing progress reporting and regular IEP updates with the district and family

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can families apply directly?
Yes, families should speak with their district’s special education team so the district can initiate a formal referral. We partner with districts for placement approval. 
Q: Will transportation be provided?
Transportation is arranged by the referring school district per your IEP. We’ll coordinate with the district transportation team. 
Q: How will the district pay for placement?
Placement funding and responsibility are handled through the student’s district and the IEP process. Our Admissions Team will work with district staff to complete the necessary paperwork. 

Get Started Learning with ILA!

Get Started

Or if you need more information, click here to contact our Admissions Team or call (224) 305-1203.

410 East Dundee Road, Wheeling, IL 60090 • (847) 243-6922 • Fax: (312) 275-7776

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