McKinney-Vento ABOUT MCKINNEY VENTO RIGHTS FAQ ABOUT The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that works to ensure educational stability for homeless youth. The McKinney-Vento act allows eligible students to enroll in school and receive transportation without delay. The McKinney-Vento Act’s definition of “homeless” for children and youth reflects the reality of family homelessness today. The definition specifically includes children living in emergency shelters, motels, hotels, trailer parks, cars, parks, public spaces, or abandoned buildings, and those sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason. According to the McKinney-Vento Act, the term “homeless children and youths” refers to individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and includes the following four categories: Children and youth who: share the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; or are abandoned in hospitals. Children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings. Children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings. Children of migrant or seasonal workers who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described in the first three categories. The McKinney-Vento Act and other federal laws do not give official definitions of a “fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence” as it pertains to children and youth experiencing homelessness. However, the following working definitions may be useful: A “fixed nighttime residence” is stationary, permanent, and not subject to change. A “regular nighttime residence” is used on a predictable, routine, or consistent basis. An “adequate nighttime residence” sufficiently meets the physical and psychological needs typically met in home environments.McKinney-Vento Act’s Definition of “Homeless” for Children and Youth What is the McKinney-Vento Act? The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures the educational rights and protections of children and youth experiencing homelessness. What meets the definition of Homelessness? What are some examples of substandard housing? What are the options and considerations for school selection? Who determines McKinney-Vento eligibility of a student in transition? Can students be enrolled without the proper documentation? Who are Unaccompanied Homeless Youth? How long can a homeless student or unaccompanied youth attend the school of origin? FAQ THE RIGHTS FOR MCKINNEY-VENTO FAMILIES What are their rights? Educational rights and protections for eligible children include: Choice of School McKinney-Vento eligible children may attend their school of origin (meaning the last school attended or the school attended when the child lost permanent housing). Alternatively, they may attend the school that serves their temporary living situation. Their caregiver makes this choice. Immediate Enrollment Eligible children still qualify even if medical records, birth certificates, or transcripts cannot be introduced at the time of enrollment. Transportation to School of Origin If requested, transportation must be provided in some form. Early Childhood Education Priority considerations can be made for children under five years old. Free Lunch and Fee Waivers Due to unstable living situations, children are eligible for any free meal programs provided by their school district, including lunch and breakfast, where applicable. HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. JIMMY PAWOLA Director of McKinney-Vento Operations Area 1 Lead Liaison (708) 240-1870 jpawola@west40.org JIMMY MORTILLARO Associate Director of McKinney-Vento Operations (708) 240-1004 jmortillaro@west40.org SOLOMIIA NARYTNYK McKinney-Vento Specialist (224) 531-1509 snarytnyk@west40.org

Licensure Serving administrators, teachers, and school staff with all aspects of their licensure needs. Find the latest information below on Illinois licensure, endorsements, approvals, professional development and license renewal. ALL FORMS RECORDS & REQUIREMENTS OTHER Educator Licensure Requirements 15. Link to Webpage How To Create An ELIS Account 27. Link to Webage Illinois Licensure, Endorsement, and Approval Requirements 31. Link to Webpage Out of State Applicant Requirement Checklist 48. Download PDF Renewal and Reinstatement 52. Link to Webpage Guidelines for Individuals Completing an Illinois State Approved Teaching Program 21. Link to Webpage ISBE Forms 30. Link to Webpage Out of Country Applicant Requirement Checklist 47. Download PDF Renewal and Professional Development 51. Link to Webpage Subsequent Teaching Endorsement Requirements 62. Link to Webpage Educator Licensure Requirements 15. Link to Webpage Illinois Licensure, Endorsement, and Approval Requirements 31. Link to Webpage Subsequent Teaching Endorsement Requirements 62. Link to Webpage Guidelines for Individuals Completing an Illinois State Approved Teaching Program 21. Link to Webpage Renewal and Reinstatement 52. Link to Webpage How To Create An ELIS Account 27. Link to Webage Renewal and Professional Development 51. Link to Webpage 30. ISBE Forms Link to Webpage 48. Out of State Applicant Requirement Checklist Download PDF 47. Out of Country Applicant Requirement Checklist Download PDF HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. GINA SIERRA Educator Licensure Specialist gsierra@west40.org ANA MOJARRO Educator Licensure Specialist amojarro@west40.org

Mental Health Support Reducing barriers so students can receive timely and direct mental health services while providing guidance for those who serve them. HOW WE HELP West40 provides support for students experiencing symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of depression, difficult life changes, family challenges, and other concerns affecting their daily lives. Additionally, we offer substance use prevention and early intervention services for students and educational sessions for parents, guardians, and educators. For educators, mental health professionals, social workers, and staff members, reflective consultation is available to promote learning, professional growth, and self awareness. Individual and peer clinical supervision is also available for those completing internship hours. WHO WE SERVE Direct Services: Referred students from West40 programs, including ALOP, Safe School, Remote School, or Truancy and Teen Parent Parents and family members Reflective Consultation: Social workers, educators, mental health professionals, other care providers within West40 districts, and West40 staff. Clinical Supervision: West40 staff completing clinical supervision requirements for professional counseling licensure BUILD If you are in need of BUILD, Substance use prevention services click the button to the left for more information on the program and who to contact. BUILD Program Webpage HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. LAURA GUZMAN LOPEZ Director of Mental Health Support lguzmanlopez@west40.org

Professional Learning Specialist DR. ERIKA LUKASIK DR. ERIKA LUKASIK < Back DR. ERIKA LUKASIK More about Erika Professional Learning Specialist Dr. Erika Lukasik joined the West40 Professional Learning team as Professional Learning Specialist with a focus on literacy in the summer of 2024. She has worked in literacy instruction at the elementary, middle school, high school, and higher education levels for the past 18 years serving as a literature teacher, reading specialist, instructional coach, and literacy coordinator. When she isn’t focused on literacy instruction, she’s curled up with her dog and a good book, going to stand-up comedy shows, or listening to Taylor Swift. Erika believes that professional learning is the heart of a reflective and responsive teaching practice. elukasik@west40.org Previous Next

CPS Professional Learning Support Support Built for the Realities of Leading a Chicago Public School Our team includes former CPS educators and leaders who understand the system, the pressures and the realities of leading a Chicago school. We start with what your school needs now and build the support around you. That means we can step in where you are today. Whether you need support with leadership, instruction, multilingual learners, attendance, student and staff well-being, SECAs, or a challenge unique to your school, we work with you to understand what is needed and shape the right support around it. ISBE Approved Learning Partner Vendor #19416 Our services align with key frameworks, including Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Continuous Improvement Work Plan (CIWP) foundations. Continuous Improvement & Data Driven Leadership CIWP Support Collaborative Leadership Summative Designation Navigation Assessment Training & Support Data Analysis & Decision-Making Monitoring, Evaluating, & Sustaining Change Educator Support & Professional Capacity Connectedness and Wellbeing Curriculum and Instruction Inclusive & Supportive Learning Environment We offer expertise in a wide range of areas, including: Meet The Team Former CPS educators and leaders ready to help you move forward. We know the system. We know the pressure. We know plans change. School Improvement Leadership: Anne, Dawn, Terri, LaVerne, Michael, Rito, Stacy, Tracey, Vanessa Distributive Leadership: Anne, Dawn, LaVerne, Michael, Rito, Stacy, Tracey, Vanessa Focusing on Effective Instruction: Dawn, LaVerne, Stacy, Michael Multi-Lingual Learner Success: Anne Paonessa Foster Connectedness & Well-Being for Your School: Rito, LaVerne, Stacy, Anne Attendance Matters: Stacy Stewart, Anne Paonessa, Dawn Dolby, Rito Martinez Sensational SECAs-Dawn? - this mainly has been supported by West Cook part of team We Are Ready to Start Where You Are Please use this form below to let us know how we can support your CPS community. First name* Last name* Email* Message* Submit

INSPIRE Teachers Video Project Sign Up > Be a Part of Illinois’ New Teacher Evaluation Training Resource! Take part in building a library of instructional videos that align with the updated Danielson Framework 2022 , designed to enhance teacher evaluation and professional development throughout Illinois. We are looking for teachers across grade levels and subjects interested in showcasing their instructional practices. These videos will serve as resources to support evaluator training, helping elevate teacher evaluation quality statewide. WHY PARTICIPATE? Participating teachers will: Earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs) for their time and involvement. Receive confidential, non-evaluative, growth-focused feedback using the Danielson 2022 rubrics. Gain exclusive access to West40’s professional learning video library. Receive recognition for contributing to a statewide initiative focused on advancing teaching standards. TIMELINE AND NEXT STEPS: Teacher Recruitment Period: Wave 1 - Closed Wave 2 - Now open. Click here to sign up. Teachers attend ONE of the Virtual Information Sessions: In the sign-up form , you will be asked to indicate your preference for a virtual info session day where we can answer any questions and clarify project details. Teachers only need to attend one session. March 5th, 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM March 6th, 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM Recordings are currently underway. Wave 2 recording will take place in April and May 2025 HOW TO GET INVOLVED: THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST. Please sign up using the form below. The form also includes a parent/guardian authorization for permission to record. This will help us gather essential details like grade level, subject area, and experience. Sign Up > QUESTIONS? If you have any futher questions please feel free to reach out to: Dr. Sonya Spaulding sspaulding@west40.org Heidi Bellm hbellm@west40.org

Regional Safe School A safe place of growth and hope for youth-of-promise. HOW WE HELP Described as a model for the state, the West40 Regional Safe School helps students who are up against difficult circumstances out of their control. By changing these circumstances—offering safety, encouragement, and structure in a DIFFERENT setting—we can change the ending to each student’s story. We start by earning their trust, building relationships, and changing how they look at their lives and think about themselves. We help them take ownership of their responsibilities - academic and behavior toward others. We help them believe in their abilities to turn their lives around to get back on the path to graduation and life readiness. WHO WE SERVE Our Safe School serves students in grades 6-12 who were suspended, expulsion eligible, and/or expelled who yearn to be future innovators of their community and need help in fulfilling their dreams. The biggest lessons in my life are the ones I learned at the West40 Safe Schools. " Dion Flowers BY THE NUMBERS IN 2024-25 16 Districts Served 74 Students Served 72% of Middle and High School Students Enrolled in Career Education 100% Middle School Students Transitioned to Their Home High School 89% of High School Seniors Graduated on Time 67% of High School Students Ended the Year on Track with Credits (37% increase from intake) REFERRING A STUDENT? Contact Joe Innocente to begin the referral process. CONTACT RESOURCES School Calendar PDF School Calendar Student Handbook PDF Student Handbook HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. JOE INNOCENTE Director of Regional Safe School Program jinnocente@west40.org

Accessibility Statement This statement was last updated on 11/3/2025. West40 ISC #2 is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for all visitors, including individuals with disabilities. We are actively working to make our website and all digital assets accessible from this site compliant with the ADA and WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines. Our goal is to achieve full compliance by April 24, 2026. If you experience difficulty accessing any part of our site or need assistance, please contact us. We welcome your feedback and will make every effort to address concerns promptly as we continue improving accessibility for all.

News Stories and important updates from West40 and our partner districts West40CloserLook is a website dedicated to deep dives of education topics in Illinois through the use of interviews, public records, and interactive storytelling. To browse the site... CLICK HERE WEST40 NEWS DISTRICT NEWS SHINE MAGAZINE Area Superintendents Share Tips on Investing in Staff Retention West40 asked area superintendents to share tips for creating a positive team culture that can contribute to staff retention. From increased social activities and celebrations to an on-site daycare, district leaders understand the importance of building workplaces where educators feel seen, heard, and appreciated. For example, Superintendent Dr. Leah Gauthier of Elmwood Park Community Unit School District 401 said that during the most recent school year, staff in each school b Chris Coffey Aug 18 Area Superintendents Share Tips on Investing in Staff Retention Chris Coffey Aug 18 Backpack Giveback Returns to Morton College on August 8 Chris Coffey Jul 22 From West40 to Springfield and Beyond: Advocating for Education Chris Coffey Jul 7 Illinois School Safety Conference Set for New Location Chris Coffey Jun 18 Area Superintendents Share Tips on Investing in Staff Retention Chris Coffey Aug 18 Backpack Giveback Returns to Morton College on August 8 Chris Coffey Jul 22 From West40 to Springfield and Beyond: Advocating for Education Chris Coffey Jul 7 Illinois School Safety Conference Set for New Location Chris Coffey Jun 18 West40 Introduces Shine to Highlight Our District and Co-Op Partners Chris Coffey Jun 4 Illinois Approves Redesigned Elementary Education Content Test Chris Coffey May 22 Family Nights: A West40 Tradition Chris Coffey May 18 West40 Shares Update on St. Joseph Campus Project Chris Coffey May 12 Strategic Plan Update - April 2026 Chris Coffey Apr 23 Open for Business - StitchED at West40 West40 Communications Apr 14 Nearly 150 Area Students Honored at 30th Annual SCOTY Awards Chris Coffey Mar 23 Update on West40's Next Strategic Plan Chris Coffey Mar 19 Bellwood Paraprofessionals Honored with Day of Celebration and Professional Development Chris Coffey Mar 17 A Closer Look: What's Next for Illinois Education Mandates? Chris Coffey Feb 24 Jose's Journey - A West40 Student Spotlight Chris Coffey Feb 17 Mapping West40's Next Five Years Chris Coffey Jan 21 Virtual Reality to Connect West40 Area Students to Possible Careers Chris Coffey Jan 7 West40 Holds New Furniture Giveaway at St. Joseph Campus Chris Coffey Dec 15, 2025 Auto Mechanic Shares Her Career Journey with West40 Students Chris Coffey Dec 8, 2025 Leyden's Dr. Nick Polyak Named 2026 Illinois Superintendent of the Year West40 Communications Nov 24, 2025 West40 Food Mart Demand Increases Amid Community Challenges Chris Coffey Nov 5, 2025 West40 Grad Shares How Internship Program Created Opportunities West40 Communications Oct 30, 2025 A Message from Mark Dr. Mark Klaisner Oct 28, 2025 Illinois School Safety Conference Details and Streaming Information Chris Coffey Sep 30, 2025 Ridgewood HS Students Perform CPR to Help Save Friend's Life Chris Coffey Sep 19, 2025 West40 Shares Update on St. Joseph West40 Sep 8, 2025 Governing Board Re-Elects Dr. Jennifer Kelsall as President Chris Coffey Aug 28, 2025 Why All Professional Learning is Continuous Improvement Chris Coffey Aug 26, 2025 International Dignitaries Visit West40 to Exchange Learning and Stories Stuart Brown Aug 4, 2025 West40 Offering Free Professional Development for Educator Specialists West40 Jul 28, 2025 Spotlight on Our Partners: District 209 Offers Free Summer Lunches Chris Coffey Jul 22, 2025 West40's BackPack GiveBack Set for August 10th in Berwyn West40 Jul 18, 2025 Soccer Cub Revitalizes St. Joseph Field in Partnership with West40 Chris Coffey Jun 24, 2025 Professional Learning Team Meets Major Milestone and Looks Ahead West40 Jun 12, 2025 Dr. Klaisner Elected IARSS President, Selected for Leadership Academy West40 Jun 5, 2025 West40 Communications Team Earns Four Awards in National Contest West40 Jun 2, 2025 West40 Area Educators Honored for their Contributions to Schools West40 May 28, 2025 West40 Arranges for 20 Area Families to Receive New Mattresses Chris Coffey May 21, 2025 Strong Showing for Chicago Students at National Academic Decathlon Chris Coffey May 12, 2025 Why We Need Invisible Infrastructure for Tiered Student Support - OPINION West40 May 9, 2025 Remote School Student Describes Her Journey to Graduation Chris Coffey May 2, 2025 Students Share Their ALOP Success Stories Chris Coffey Apr 22, 2025 West40 Takes A 'Closer Look' at Issues Impacting Education Chris Coffey Apr 16, 2025 West40 Honors Students at SCOTY Awards and Organizes Competitions Chris Coffey Mar 20, 2025 Seniors Plus Students in the Spotlight Chris Coffey Mar 19, 2025 West40 Partners with Manufacturer to Open Doors for Students Chris Coffey Mar 14, 2025 Stepping Stones: Aubrey's Graphic Design Journey Chris Coffey Mar 6, 2025 West40 Adopts Resolution in Support of Vision 2030 to Enhance K-12 Learning West40 Feb 7, 2025 Update on St. Joseph Campus Construction and Introducing the Heart 2 Heart Food Mart West40 Jan 21, 2025 A Message from West40 Regarding Federal Immigration Policies West40 Jan 17, 2025 1 2 West40 Introduces Shine to Highlight Our District and Co-Op Partners West40 is proud to introduce “Shine,” our inaugural magazine celebrating all 41 of our district and co-op partners across West Cook County. The fifty-plus page digital publication will be accessible on the West40 website and can be downloaded if our educational partners choose to include it on their websites. You can view the digital version of our magazine here: https://www.west40.org/news We started with an idea to share inspiring stories that shine a light on the people, Chris Coffey Jun 4 West40 Introduces Shine to Highlight Our District and Co-Op Partners Chris Coffey Jun 4 Nearly 150 Area Students Honored at 30th Annual SCOTY Awards Chris Coffey Mar 23 Leyden's Dr. Nick Polyak Named 2026 Illinois Superintendent of the Year West40 Communications Nov 24, 2025 Ridgewood HS Students Perform CPR to Help Save Friend's Life Chris Coffey Sep 19, 2025 West40 Introduces Shine to Highlight Our District and Co-Op Partners Chris Coffey Jun 4 Nearly 150 Area Students Honored at 30th Annual SCOTY Awards Chris Coffey Mar 23 Leyden's Dr. Nick Polyak Named 2026 Illinois Superintendent of the Year West40 Communications Nov 24, 2025 Ridgewood HS Students Perform CPR to Help Save Friend's Life Chris Coffey Sep 19, 2025 Spotlight on Our Partners: District 209 Offers Free Summer Lunches Chris Coffey Jul 22, 2025 West40 Area Educators Honored for their Contributions to Schools West40 May 28, 2025 West40 Honors Students at SCOTY Awards and Organizes Competitions Chris Coffey Mar 20, 2025 100 Years of Memories: Leyden Celebrates Success, Honors History at Gala Submitted by Karen Geddeis Feb 12, 2025 Cicero District 99 Continuous Improvement Partnership with West40 Boosts Student Outcomes Chris Coffey Nov 21, 2024 Leyden High School District 212 Celebrates its 100th Anniversary Submitted by Karen Geddeis Aug 12, 2024 Loyola Medicine Mobile Pediatric Unit Celebrates 25th Anniversary Chris Coffey, West40 Jul 31, 2024 Leyden Wins National Award for Translation Efforts Submitted by Karen Geddeis Jul 10, 2024 Achieving a Merit and Fostering Literacy: Cicero Teen Installs Three Little Free Libraries at D99 Schools for Local Youth w40distgallery Apr 29, 2024 Leyden Teacher Receives Fellowship w40distgallery Apr 8, 2024 West40 Area Students Honored for Leadership, Kindness, and Service w40distgallery Apr 8, 2024 Leyden Teacher Honored by the Chicago Bears emakris8 Dec 13, 2023 Pleasantdale Elementary School Wins National Blue Ribbon w40distgallery Sep 20, 2023 Leyden Artists Featured in Chicago Exhibit as High School Unveils New Permanent Display w40distgallery Sep 7, 2023 Recent Leyden Graduates Win Congressional Art Contest w40distgallery Aug 3, 2023 District 201: Morton HS Grad is First in IL Recruited for Women’s College Flag Football w40distgallery Jul 27, 2023 East Leyden Student's News Report Airs on National Television w40distgallery Jul 24, 2023 CICERO DISTRICT 99 ROBOTICS TEAM PLACES 3RD IN INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION w40distgallery Jul 7, 2023 WEST40 AREA EDUCATORS AND SUPPORT PERSONNEL RECEIVE STATE HONORS Chris Coffey, West40 May 22, 2023 WEST40 AREA HIGH SCHOOLS TRAIN FUTURE TEACHERS Chris Coffey, West40 May 15, 2023 MORE THAN 100 STUDENTS HONORED AT WEST40 SCOTY AWARDS w40distgallery Mar 23, 2023 GOVERNOR PRITZKER DELIVERS MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT FROM WEST40 REGIONAL SAFE SCHOOL Chris Coffey, West40 Feb 27, 2023 Button Collapsible text is great for longer section titles and descriptions. It gives people access to all the info they need, while keeping your layout clean. Link your text to anything, or set your text box to expand on click. Write your text here... ADA Compliant PDF Read how SHINE came to life! For more information on above, please call the main office number and follow the audio directions at 708.449.4284 MORE STORIES See all the ways that West40 is helping to transform the lives of students, families, teachers and administrators in West Suburban Cook County. VIEW MORE STORIES

Seniors Plus Walking alongside students to the finish line HOW WE HELP Seniors Plus advocates support students by helping them restart or finish high school. We do this by helping students work through barriers to achieve credit recovery so they can reach their full potential by earning their high school diploma. In helping the students the schools also benefit from higher graduation rates and enrollments. WHO WE SERVE Seniors Plus at Morton College Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Seniors Plus serves students, ages 17-21, who have missed their original graduation date. The program is designed primarily for students needing anything from half a credit (1 class) to five credits (10 classes). We are currently serving Leyden, Proviso, & Morton. BY THE NUMBERS IN 2024-25 243 Total Students Served 89 Students Graduated (High School & Seniors Plus) 547 Online Credits Recovered HEAR THEIR STORIES LEARN MORE Explore powerful stories of redemption, success, and creativity. Learn how West40 is affecting lives in our communities. JOE GAGE Senior Director of Student Programs jgage@west40.org RENEE MAKRIS Senior Director of Student Programs rmakris@west40.org HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT.

West40 at St. Joseph PROGRAM DESIGN OUR JOURNEY STATS PARTNERS CONTACT ABOUT US Every child deserves a place to belong. In Illinois, too many youth in foster care are left sleeping in offices, hospitals, and detention centers—spaces never meant to be home. At St. Joseph’s, we’re changing that. We’re creating a healing community where youth in care find stability, compassion, and opportunity—a place to grow, to thrive, and to rewrite their story. This isn’t just shelter. It’s a new beginning. Introducing West40 at St. Joseph Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied PROGRAM DESIGN At West40 at St. Joseph’s, we envision more than a program—we are building a sanctuary of healing and possibility for youth in foster care. Designed with intention and care, our holistic model integrates trauma-informed practices, personalized education, and essential life skills. This is not just about meeting needs—it’s about restoring hope and igniting potential in young people who have endured profound disruption and loss. Every element—from warm, welcoming residential spaces to structured, nurturing daily routines—creates the safety and stability youth need to rebuild trust, discover their strengths, and envision a future filled with opportunity. At St. Joseph’s, we are preparing youth not only for the next chapter, but for a lifetime of connection, growth, and thriving. Designed with Care “A place where environment becomes a catalyst for transformation.”Imagine a home where every detail—every room, every routine, every corner—is intentionally crafted to nurture safety, dignity, and belonging. At St. Joseph’s, we’ve reimagined residential care. Private bedrooms honor personal space. Calming communal areas invite trust and connection. Classrooms and sensory spaces reflect a deep understanding of trauma and its impact. This is not institutional care. This is a sanctuary of hope—a foundation for young people to begin rebuilding their lives.With your support, these spaces don’t just exist—they become places where healing begins. A Culture of Healing “An ecosystem of compassion where young people can reclaim their story.”At St. Joseph’s, care is not a checklist—it’s a way of being. For youth who have known only instability, we create a culture where they are seen, valued, and empowered to heal.Here, trauma-informed practices replace punishment with understanding. Staff embody consistency and compassion, modeling healthy relationships and emotional resilience. Every interaction reinforces this truth: you are worthy of love, safety, and a future filled with possibility.Together, we are transforming lives—not through programs alone, but through connection. Rooted in Belief “We believe in the boundless potential of every young person.”At the heart of St. Joseph’s is a bold conviction: every young person holds potential, no matter their past. Rooted in CARE, the Circle of Courage, and West40’s unwavering belief in youth, we look beyond behaviors to the resilience, strength, and promise within each child. We cultivate belonging. We nurture mastery and independence. We inspire generosity. These are not just ideals—they are the blueprint for breaking cycles of trauma and creating lives of purpose and possibility.This is more than a program. It’s a movement. And with you, it becomes unstoppable. OUR JOURNEY May 15, 2023 Bought the Former St. Joseph High School Campus in Westchester, IL September 5, 2024 Demolition of 2 dilapidated buildings on the 30-acre campus October 23, 2024 Construction & Re-imagining of West40 at St. Joseph began 2025-2026 The journey continues--build with us TODAY: The Crisis Facing Youth in Care Homelessness 40% of foster youth in IL experience homelessness within 18 months of leaving care. (1) Employment Nearly half are unemployed by age 24. (2) Mental Health 1 in 4 meet PTSD criteria—twice the rate of U.S. veterans. (3) Education Only 58% earn a high school diploma by 19. (4) Skills Gap Without life skills or support, most remain underemployed. (5) TOMORROW: What’s Possible at St. Joseph’s Stability Supportive care reduces youth homelessness by 18–30%. (6) Opportunity With mentoring, youth are 3× more likely be and stay employed at 25. (7) Healing Trauma-informed care reduces behavioral crises by 50% or more. (8) Aspiration College enrollment doubles with academic support. (9) Preparedness Life-skills training increases job placement by 40–60%. (10) View All Citations PARTNERS The vision for West40 at St. Joseph’s was never meant to be built alone. From the moment this idea was born, we’ve been joined by extraordinary partners—organizations and individuals who share our belief that every young person deserves a place to heal, grow, and belong. Together, we are more than collaborators. We are co-architects of a new model of care—one that unites trauma-informed practice, educational excellence, and community support to transform the future for youth in foster care. This is what happens when compassion meets expertise, and vision meets action. This is the power of partnership. And we’re just getting started. Together, let’s rewrite what’s possible. Contact us for more information about our program, partnerships, or how we serve foster youth. LEZLIE FUHR Director of Programming for West40 at St. Joseph lfuhr@west40.org MICHELL MARTINEZ Youth-in-Care Coordinator at St. Joseph mmartinez@west40.org LEARN HOW YOU CAN HELP JOIN US ABOUT US PROGRAM DESIGN OUR JOURNEY STATS PARTNERS

Three professional learning opportunities to strengthen classroom practice. Strengthen Classroom Practice PUT STUDENT THINKING AT THE CENTER Explore these three professional learning opportunities from West40. IAR: Item To Impact TURN IAR ITEMS INTO INSTRUCTIONAL IMPACT Explore what student responses reveal and use those insights to strengthen instruction. September–December 2026 CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE Building Thinking Classrooms CREATE CLASSROOMS BUILT FOR THINKING Learn practical strategies that increase student thinking, collaboration and engagement. October 20–21, 2026 CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE West40 Book Club Series EXPLORE JUSTICE THROUGH LITERACY Read, reflect and examine how literacy instruction can create more rigorous and equitable learning experiences. October 2026–April 2027 CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE For More Professional Learning Events See More Events