Our Story
Located in Chicago, Illinois, The Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School (the O-School) is a therapeutic residential and day program for children and adolescents in need of support for profound emotional issues or who are on the autism scale. The O-School provides highly refined and individualized care provided by a talented and devoted team of professionals.
The O-School uses a milieu treatment therapeutic approach, meaning the support of its students is designed to be all encompassing. All activities and events are seen as therapeutic opportunities, and every aspects of a student's day are given considerable thought, care and attention. Members of a treatment team—including teachers, therapists, counselors and program managers—work cohesively to create a consistent and meaningful experience throughout each day.
The O-School is also characterized by the heavy emphasis it places on the therapeutic relationships that develop between a student and his or her treatment team. Milieu staff members are actively involved with the students throughout the day, not simply monitoring or supervising them, but developing bonds and relationships that create a structure in which each child or adolescent can receive emotional support, develop new skills and sustain healthy relationships.
Finally, the O-School distinguishes itself by providing a strong academic program that aligns with state and local standards within a therapeutic setting. This academic program is enhanced by a number of co-curricular activities—such as dances, student council, and teams—providing a more traditional school experience and facilitating each child’s transition back to their home school or to college.
In order to ensure the highest standards, the School is accredited by a variety of state and independent organizations, including the Council on Accreditation, AdvancEd, the Illinois State Board of Education, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, and the Illinois Department of Human Services.
The O-School is also an affiliate of the Child Welfare League of America, the American Association of Residential Treatment Centers, the National Association of Private Special Education Centers, the Illinois Association of Private Special Education Centers, and the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs.
