Options for College Success

Phone: 847-425-4797
Info@optionsforcollegesuccess.org


	We offer a comprehensive program with the goal of the individual reaching independence in all of the areas – academic, independent living skills, financial management, and social skills. Each student’s abilities and goals are carefully reviewed by the staff. We also listen to what the parents would like to see accomplished during their time with us. Parents input is very important to us. We carefully make an individualized plan to meet agreed upon objectives. The goals are reviewed on a regular basis, and parents are regularly advised of student progress. Every student receives individual attention. Our services begin with each student receiving one on one instruction in each of the areas. We keep a careful record of daily progress and are always ready to adjust services to meet the needs of each student. This may include additional tutoring sessions, specific tutoring techniques, individualized organizational skills. Each student meets with a case manager on a weekly basis to review student progress. The student and case manager look at progress in each of the areas. Students needs and wants are addressed. Although we have rolling admissions, we offer a limited enrollment so that we can continue to offer excellent services to each of our students. If we cannot offer a student immediate entrance, the individual will be placed on a waiting list until there is space available. ACADEMIC Our staff meets with the student and family to develop an academic plan. We assist the student with the admissions process to enroll in the program chosen, review any accommodations needed, communicate with the professors or supervisors as needed, provide individual tutor sessions. INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS We work with the students in their apartment to learn organizational skills. In addition we teach the students how to clean and do their laundry. We help the students learn about healthy eating and how to prepare nutritious meals. We also teach the students how to navigate public transportation and to learn about the community. FINANCE MANAGEMENT We teach the young adult how to live on a budget. This includes purchasing grocery and other items. The student also learns how to pay bills and the importance of a good credit rating. In addition, the student learns about security and safety on the internet. SOCIAL SKILLS We offer the students individual meetings with the staff psychologist as well as large group sessions. The psychologist is available to help the student with learning and social issues with adults and their peers. We also plan social activities and encourage the students to participate.

	Christine Anderson, Executive Director Christine has been in the educational field for over 20 years, many of them specifically in the area of special education. She also has a son with learning disabilities and understands the issues and challenges parents often face. Shoshana Axler, Director of Admissions and Development Shoshana has many years of experience in both the fields of education and development in the Chicago area. She will be working in both outreach to new families and professionals as well as exploring other funding sources. Geoffrey Anderson, Director of Marketing Geoffrey graduated from College of the Holy Cross with a B.A. in Sociology and English. His technological skills and knack for creativity led him into a career in marketing, initially working in the field of entertainment, specifically event promotion. As a devoted volunteer for the Special Olympics Program for 10 years, he is delighted to have an opportunity to join our Options team. Morag Sutherland, Licensed Clinical Psychologist Dr. Sutherland is a licensed clinical psychologist . She has 20 years of combined non-clinical and clinical experience working in higher education institutions Amanda Lewis, Resident Advisor Amanda lives in the apartment building with our students. She is available for emergencies. She assists with the independent living skills program. She also plans and facilitates the social activities program with the students. In addition we have several highly skilled tutors, instructors, and support staff to work with the students on an individual basis.