ABRAXAS YFS PROGRAM / FACILITIES SEARCH

Abraxas School at DuPage

Hinsdale, Illinois

11 South 250, Route 83
Hinsdale, Illinois 60521
(630) 824-4593

Fax: (630) 810-9209

Email Mary Beth Sembrot for more program information »

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Program Summary

The highly structured program is based on the Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) model developed by the IL State Board of Education.  Our goal is to improve academic performance through diversified instruction, positive reinforcement and high expectations.  These objectives are accomplished by implementing emotional and social support systems within a safe, nurturing and supportive academic environment that allows our students to learn and grow at their own pace.  Our emphasis is placed on developing a strong relationship with the students' residential treatment team and creating a strong transition plan that includes successful re-entry into their home school upon discharge from the program.

Students at the DuPage Interventions Program participate in a full school day that includes social, emotional and academic programming such as individual counseling, group counseling, character education, goal planning and interpersonal skills training.  When students are not in school, we strive to work together with the students' residential treatment team, as well as the students' families, to assist students in their recovery.

In this unique cooperative arrangement with Downers Grove School District 99, we are able to give our students a district-based curriculum which allows us to provide consistent and appropriate educational opportunities for the students in our care.

The DuPage Interventions Residential School was developed in partnership with the existing juvenile residential program at DuPage Interventions and School District 99 in DuPage County.  The program is housed in a 38-bed residential program that specializes in substance abuse treatment.  We provide alternative education, counseling and social services to male adolescent students, ages 13 to 18.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are students referred to this program?  
     All students are referred to the residential treatment program through the courts, outside agencies 
     or their parents/guardians.  Once a student is placed in the program for treatment, they participate 
     in a full school day in conjunction with their treatment plan. 

How long is the student required to participate in the programs?
     There is a variable length of stay for students; however, most students remain in the program from 
     4-6 months.  As long as a student is in treatment, they are able to participate in the education 
     program.

Can parents remove their children from the program at any time?
     Students should complete the treatment program expectations set forth by the courts to exit the 
     program; however, students can be withdrawn at any time.

How will parents be involved in the child's education while they are in the program?
     We have an open door policy for parents to contact us at anytime with concerns, communication 
     regarding events or progress and general involvement and support of their child's education.  We 
     periodically hold special events for parents such as open house and ice cream socials.

Will students receive individualized support?  
     Yes, each student receives individualized support that includes a complete school orientation and 
     an assigned primary intervention specialist (IS).  The IS acts as a mentor for the student and 
     provides guidance and structure during the educational program.  The School works with each 
     client's school district, parents and treatment team to assist in the child's transition back to their 
     home school.

Will students receive a service plan or goals? 
     Yes, each student has a written treatment plan which includes an academic summary.  Goals are 
     established and reviewed regularly with each student.  The plan is also reviewed with the family 
     and any outside agency involved with the student.  For students with special education needs, 
     IEP's are reviewed and developed to assure appropriate Education Services.

Do you collaborate with outside agencies?
     Yes, the majority of our students come to us from outside agency referrals.  The school program 
     works closely with each student's residential treatment team and any outside agencies to ensure 
     a successful recovery and return back to home school.

Can students earn credit?
     Yes, students can earn up to 2 1/2 credits per semester. Credits are based on days of 
     attendance and how many classes are taken.  These are recommended credits that are sent 
     back to the student's home school district.

Can students earn their GED?
     We are able to help students gain the knowledge to take the test off campus.  We have a GED 
     curriculum and teacher guided classes that can help students reach this goal.

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