Illinois Therapeutic Boarding Schools

Accreditation is optional for private schools in Illinois, but those that do apply for accreditation through a state approved accrediting agency may be recognized as by the state. Policy and Guidelines for Registration and Recognition of Nonpublic Elementary and Secondary Schools, February 2004. Registration is optional for private schools, however, they may register through the State Board of Education. Nonpublic schools may also apply for recognition from the State Board of Education after one year of being registered and after adhering to guidelines regarding the administration, organization, instructional programs, school facilities, food services and personnel.

Teacher certification is required at the discretion of the individual school governance, however, the Illinois State Board of Education encourages all instructors to have at least a baccalaureate degree in the subject they are teaching. At the very least, a teacher should have a time line how how and when they plan to achieve that degree. Children at nonpublic schools should be taught under a curriculum that matches the branches of education taught to students in public schools. Recognized non-public schools must have the same graduation requirements as public schools in Illinois.

Children attending nonpublic schools are required to have a health exam including a tuberculosis test and proof of immunization. If the student is exempt, due to religious or medical grounds, that information needs to be provided. Nonpublic schools must conduct regular safety drills for fire, bus evacuation, severe weather/shelter as well as law enforcement drills for bomb threats or shooters.

Reference: http://www2.ed.gov