Hope Learning Academies

The Hope Learning Academies provide specialized, therapeutic education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With locations in Springfield and St. Louis Metro East, our schools offer a specialized environment designed to meet students’ unique learning, emotional, and behavioral needs. Each student receives an individualized education and therapy plan tailored to their cognitive, emotional, and social development.

History

The Hope School, now known as The Hope Learning Academy, was founded in 1957 in Springfield, Illinois, by Dr. and Mrs. Charles Jordan. They were motivated by their daughter, Judith Ann, who was born with multiple disabilities. At the time, they could not find any school in the U.S. capable of meeting her needs.

They envisioned a place where she, and children like her, could have the opportunity to learn and thrive. What began as a modest home in Springfield later expanded to a 26-acre campus near Lake Springfield. In more than six decades, Hope has grown into a leading provider of services for individuals with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral disorders.

About the Academy

Hope Learning Academy is a private therapeutic day school that offers a specialized learning environment where every child has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential and receive support tailored to their unique needs. Hope specializes in serving children with developmental intellectual disabilities, through a comprehensive approach that nurtures the whole child—academically, emotionally, and socially.

Our school provides a highly individualized and therapeutic educational experience, designed to meet each student where they are to help them build confidence and independence. With small class sizes, compassionate educators, and a team of experienced therapists, we foster an environment where progress is celebrated and every success matters.

Key Features

Smartboards and tablets
Diffused lighting
Sensory rooms
Outdoor play areas
On-site behavioral support
High student/educator ratio

All students utilize Communication Devices
Multi-disciplinary approach
Functional & life skills curriculum
Full-time vocational programming
Small structured classrooms

Locations

Hope Learning Academy Springfield

15 E. Hazel Dell Lane Springfield, IL 62712

Hope Learning Academy Metro East

4553 Benes St. Glen Carbon, IL 62034

Hope Learning Academy Melrose Park

1414 N. 37th Ave. Melrose Park, IL 60160

Coming Fall 2026

Enrollment

Enrollment at Hope Learning Academy is coordinated through a referral from your child’s local school district. This process ensures that placement is consistent with your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and that the appropriate supports and services are in place.

To begin, the parent should contact their child’s special education coordinator or IEP coordinator to discuss educational needs and explore the referral process for placement at Hope Learning Academy.

If you have further questions about the school, please contact the Hope Learning Academy Superintendent, Dr. Apollos Harris, at aharris@hope.us Dr. Harris and our team are happy to provide additional information and assist in coordinating with your school district.