- TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804
- High School
- Services After High School
North Shore Academy / North Shore Academy Elementary
Services After High School
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It is important for students and their families to know that when students receive their high school diploma, all special education services end. Many services that may have been provided through the school (casemanagement, counseling, job training and placement, tutoring, etc.) are no longer available through the school.There are a number of services available for young adults who have accepted their diplomas, if they are found eligible.
These services are typically referred to as “Adult Services”. Many of these services, like SSI and mental health treatment and job training and placement require assessments and/or applications and young adults must qualify in order to receive services. Having had an IEP is not a an automatic qualification for any adult service. It is recommended that all students and families at North Shore Academy begin to prepare for life after high school as early as possible.
The transition from school to adult life can be a difficult time for families even when there is adequate preparation. With careful planning and preparation the transition can be more manageable and ultimately less stressful. NSA therapists, teachers and the transition department are available to suport students and their families with this process.
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Job Training and Placement NSA refers all students to DRS services while still in high school. Once a student is certified they can remain eligible into adulthood.
TrueNorth has a DRS representative on site
Terri Michaels (847) 831-5100
Illinois Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS)Mental Health Resources There are a number of services available through the State of Illinois, but only if a person is found eligible. Having had an emotional disability is school does not necessarily mean they will be eligible.Usually the best place to start is your local Mental Health agency. Use the DHS office locator under “Mental Health”
General Information including how to get help
Types of Mental Health Services
DHS Office LocatorSupplemental Security Income (SSI) SSI can provide income to a person with a disability (if they qualify). First time applicants are frequently denied and must appeal the determination. Students found eligible as children must reapply when they turn 18.
Social Security Disability Program (SSDI)
NCSET
Applying,Appeals
Disability PlannerMedicaid Health care can be a critical service for young adults. Young adults with a disability can qualify for medicaid. Similar to mental health, you begin by finding the Family Community Resource Center office (DHS).
How to Apply for Medicaid
Application for Medical Assistance
DHS Office LocatorPost Secondary Education (College) Accommodations and support at the college level vary from school to school. Typically, students need to meet eligibility requirements in order to receive services
College of Lake County Office for Students with Disabilities
Oakton Community College Disability ServicesHousing Even if a young adult is found eligible for adult services, housing support can be very difficult to acquire. There can be long waiting lists. Thresholds Residential Services
(This is an example of one agency that may be able provide services if the adult client has a serious mental illness)