A new chapter in specialized education is unfolding in the Henry and Stark Counties area, as renovation begins on Wings Academy, designed for students needing intensive academic, behavioral, or communicative support. This unique school will cater to students with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and other low-incidence conditions, emphasizing individualized instruction with input from special education professionals. The converted American Legion building on Railroad Avenue will feature calming classrooms, sensory rooms, and a custom outdoor playground. The project, set to open by August 2026, means children will no longer endure long commutes for suitable support, offering them a chance to thrive close to home.
The purpose-built school will serve students with intensive behavioral and communication needs, including autism and other low-incidence conditions. Instead of lengthy bus rides to distant facilities, students will now find support close to home, guided by a team of local experts. The academy features calming classrooms, specialized sensory rooms, and accessible outdoor spaces. Inspired by its bumblebee mascot, Wings Academy aims to help every student soar, turning challenges into opportunities and honoring the belief that every voice matters.
Henry-Stark Counties Special Education District #801, established in 1968, serves as a collaborative hub for eight school districts across Henry and Stark Counties, Illinois. This cooperative streamlines special education by uniting resources and expertise, managed by an Executive and Governing Board and supported by dedicated educational leaders. The district offers a wide range of inclusive services for students aged three to twenty-two, from early childhood programs to specialized instructional, therapeutic, and diagnostic support. Preschool screenings help identify developmental needs early, while individualized programs assist students with visual, hearing, or behavioral challenges, aiming to create equitable educational opportunities throughout the region.
