Question 1

What is Pathways Therapeutic Day School?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

Does my child need an autism diagnosis to attend?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

How long is an autism diagnosis valid?

Accepted Answer

Diagnostic evaluation/reports are vaild two years.

Question 4

Do Pathways accept Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

Is there a cost to attend Pathways?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

What does a typical day look like?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

How often will parents receive updates about their child’s progress?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Are parents required to participate?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

Do Pathways provide transportation?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Do Pathways provide meals?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

Can my child bring food or drinks?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 12

How do I enroll my child?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

How long does the enrollment process take?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

Does completing an application guarantee my child a seat?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 15

What happens if there are no available seats?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

Can my child attend another school or receive other services while attending Pathways?

Accepted Answer

No, we currently only service full day children.

Question 17

Can my child’s services be discontinued?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 18

How can I schedule a tour or learn more?

Accepted Answer

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.

CALL US: 1-312-995-4412

Frequently asked questions