Pathways Therapeutic Day School is a specialized educational program designed to support children who benefit from a structured therapeutic and educational environment. We provide individualized support for children with autism between the ages of 2 ½  and  6 years old.

Yes. A current qualifying diagnosis and supporting documentation are required for enrollment and continued services. Diagnosis must be current, within the last year and a half.

Diagnostic evaluation/reports are vaild two years.

Yes. Pathways works with families who have qualifying Illinois Medicaid/MCO coverage. Insurance eligibility and authorization requirements must be verified before services begin. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield Community Plan, Aetna Better Health and CountyCare.

No, Pathways is designed to provide services to eligible families through insurance/Medicaid funding. Any family responsibility, if applicable, will be explained before enrollment.

A child’s day may include:Individualized learning activitiesBehavioral supportSocial skills developmentAdaptive living skillsSensory activitiesMovement and outdoor activitiesSmall-group activitiesIndividual therapy/support

Parents will receive ongoing communication regarding their child’s progress, goals, behavior, and participation. Formal progress updates will be provided according to the child’s program requirements.

Yes. Parent involvement is an important part of a child’s success. Parents must participate in weekly Parent Training Sessions.

Transportation may be available on a need base for eligible families who have difficulty transporting their child. Transportation must be approved and scheduled in advance, and families are expected to follow the transportation policy.

Yes. Families will be informed of Pathways’ current meal and snack policies during enrollment.

No, unless otherwise specified. Families must follow Pathways’ classroom food and drink policies. Water is permitted in the classroom.

Families begin by completing an inquiry/application and providing the required medical diagnostic and insurance. The child/family then goes through an intake and eligibility process.

The timeline varies depending on the child’s documentation, insurance eligibility, authorization, and availability of an appropriate placement.

No. Attending the Parent Interview and In-person Assessment will guarantee your child’s seat.

Eligible children may be placed on a waitlist. Families will be contacted when an appropriate opening becomes available.

No, we currently only service full day children.

Services may be discontinued if eligibility requirements are no longer met, required documentation expires, insurance authorization is not maintained, attendance requirements are not met, or the program is no longer able to safely meet the child’s needs.

Families can contact Pathways to learn about current openings, schedule an intake, or receive additional information about the program via phone, in-person or via website by completing the “Intent to Enroll” Form.