ISBE approved non-public special education program. JA has two excellent therapeutic day schools for students with disabilities. Joseph Academy serves about 100 students across all programs. The Executive Director, Lori Smith, and her staff are dedicated to recognizing the value in young people who often come from troubled environments or who have been marginalized or neglected most of their lives. The Joseph Academy staff are trained to "catch kids being good" and affirm their self-worth through constant interaction. Joseph Academy staff include special education teachers, social workers, teaching assistants, vocational education personnel, a nurse and physical education teachers.