Lighted Way Association serves 58 students in grades Prekindergarten-12. The student:teacher of Lighted Way Association is 10:1 and the school's religious affiliation is Nonsectarian.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 58 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Autism, OHI, TBI, DD, Multiple Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities
Year Founded
1957
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
58 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
9%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
6 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
10:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
3%
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Tuition is paid by the home resident school district per a daily rate set by the Illinois State Board of Education Purchase Care Review Board.
Summer Program Cost Notes
Extended School Year is included in the I.E.P., if appropriate, 20 days, tuition paid by home resident school district.
Admissions Director
Jessica Kreiser
Application URL
School Notes
- Lighted Way Association, Inc. Children`s Developmental Center is a not-for-profit organization under 501(c)(3). The affairs of the corporation are governed by a Board of Directors composed of dedicated citizens who serve without compensation.The school`s staff includes the Executive Director, certified special education teachers, licensed and/or registered physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, music therapists, paraprofessionals, administrative assistant.Lighted Way is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. Operating expenses of Lighted Way are funded by tuition from public schools, United Way of Illinois Valley, contributions, memorials and bequests. Capital improvements and expenses are made possible by contributions, memorial gifts, bequests, and fundraising events by clubs and organizations. Donations may be tax deductible.It is the mission of Lighted Way to value each student as an individual capable of personal growth and development in reaching his/her highest potential cognitively, emotionally, physically, and socially. Lighted Way strives to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Quality of life is improved by empowering students to make choices, thereby giving them some control over their environment. Lighted Way strives to integrate students into their community and to help students form social relationships. All students are treated with dignity and respect.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline for Lighted Way Association?
The application deadline for Lighted Way Association is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse Lighted Way Association. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

What Private School Alumni Say a Decade Later
Ten years after graduation, private school alumni reflect on advantages, regrets, career impact, and life lessons—unearthing truths families need to know.

Can Private School Help with College Admissions?
Explore how private schools influence college admissions—advantages, limitations, and what families should expect.

Inside the Daily Life of a Private School Student
Discover what daily life is like for private school students in 2025, from classes and athletics to dining, dorms, and extracurriculars.