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Stuart G. Ferst School has been an integral member of the educational community since 1981 when it began providing services to six cognitively challenged adolescents. Through the years the program has grown in enrollment, physical space and educational expertise. Ferst School is equipped to serve 126 students in 14 well-appointed classrooms, several therapy rooms and other specialized space.

Program Eligibility

Referred and funded by school districts
3 to 21 years old depending on diagnosis
Student must have a primary diagnosis of::
- Emotional/Behavior Disorder
- EMH (educable mental handicap)
- TMH (trainable mental handicap)
- S/P H (severe/profound handicap)
- Autism
- Traumatic Brain Injury

The Philosophy of Stuart G. Ferst School

We offer a student-centered, therapeutic milieu emphasizing:

Safe, nurturing environment
Respect, dignity and privacy
Therapeutic behavioral intervention
Individualized programming
An innovative, interdisciplinary approach
Interactive learning
Community exploration
Teamwork
Total Quality Management
Going above and beyond

Services Provided

Year-round program
Hot lunch program
Certified special educators
Classroom teaching assistants
Individual aides
MSW case management/counseling
Behavior management specialists
Speech-language therapy
Audiology
Listening program
Occupational therapy
Sensory integration therapy
Physical therapy
Art therapy
Skilled nursing
Certified nursing assistants
Psychologist
Psychiatric consultation
Vision consultation
Independent living skills
Functional academics
Behavioral intervention
Crisis management
Physical education
Basketball team
Vocationally oriented training
Community outings
Assistive technology
Augmentative communication
Sign language
Facilitated communication
Bilingual staff
Adapted computers /internet access
Parent events /training sessions
Student council

Anixter Center’s Mission

The mission of Anixter Center is to enhance the ability of individuals living with or at risk of disabilities to live, learn, work, and play in the community. Anixter Center is a leading provider of high-quality vocational, residential and educational options, substance abuse prevention and treatment, and health care. Anixter Center is an advocate for the rights of people with disabilities to be full and equal members of the community.

For more information about these programs please email us or contact:

Stuart G. Ferst School
6050 North California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60659
(773) 761-4651 (voice)
(773) 761-0669 (fax)
(773) 761-4650 (TTY)

Program Eligibility

Referred and funded by school districts

Student must have a primary diagnosis of::

Emotional/Behavior Disorder

EMH (educable mental handicap)

TMH (trainable mental handicap)

S/P H (severe/profound handicap)

Autism

Traumatic Brain Injury

Services Provided