West40 Testing Center Our testing center is equipped with modern technology for maximum concentration during the testing process. PEARSON TESTING Open 7 days a week: Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM Sat-Sun: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM All registration and payment must be done through PEARSON VUE Website ACT WORKKEYS PARAPROFESSIONAL TESTING How do I register to take the WorkKeys paraprofessional test? Please call the West40 Test Center at 708-483-6209 between 8AM – 4PM or leave a message. Click Here for the WorkKeys FAQ PDF HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. STEVE BOGREN Chief Comprehensive Educational Services Officer sbogren@west40.org BILLY BALDERAS Lead Test Center Proctor bbalderas@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 BY THE NUMBERS FY26 245 515 863 871 3,346 ACT WorkKeys Exams for Paraprofessionals GED/Educational Certification Exams Fingerprint/Background Checks Teacher Licensure Exams Total Pearson Vue Exams HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. GINA SIERRA Educator Licensure Specialist gsierra@west40.org ANA MOJARRO Educator Licensure Specialist amojarro@west40.org

Permitting ALL FORMS RECORDS & REQUIREMENTS Building Permit Application FY24 7. Download PDF Demolition Permit Application 13. Download Doc Occupancy Permit Checklist 46. Download Doc Statement of Completion 60. Download PDF When do I apply for Occupancy Permit 70. Download PDF Building Permit Completion Statement Rev. 10.23 8. Download Doc Occupancy Permit Application 45. Download Doc Plan Review Form 36-11-Plan 49. Download Image When a Building Permit Is Required 10.23 69. Download PDF Building Permit Completion Statement Rev. 10.23 8. Download Doc When a Building Permit Is Required 10.23 69. Download PDF Occupancy Permit Checklist 46. Download Doc When do I apply for Occupancy Permit 70. Download PDF Building Permit Application FY24 7. Download PDF Occupancy Permit Application 45. Download Doc Statement of Completion 60. Download PDF Demolition Permit Application 13. Download Doc Plan Review Form 36-11-Plan 49. Download Image HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. STEVE BOGREN Chief Comprehensive Educational Services Officer sbogren@west40.org PHILIP ABRAHAM Director of Comprehensive Educational Services pabraham@west40.org

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? Homelessness also referred to as “transitional”, refers to lacking a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. Examples include the following: Sharing housing (doubling up) due to a loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason Living in hotels, motels, temporary mobile homes, or camping grounds due to a lack of alternative adequate housing Living in emergency or transitional shelters Abandoned in hospitals Living in public or private places not designated for, or normally used as, regular sleeping accommodation for human beings Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar places Migratory children who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described above Immigrant, migrant, and unaccompanied minors who lack parental support What are some examples of substandard housing? Lacking adequate heat, electricity, and/or water Having unsafe heating sources or electrical services that present a clear and present danger Displaying demonstrably unsafe conditions, such as gaping holes in flooring Experiencing a kitchen or plumbing that is completely inoperable Condemned by housing or other government authorities Overcrowding to the point that it is unsafe or not in meeting with fire code What are the options and considerations for school selection? The “school of origin” is defined as the school that a child or youth attended when permanently housed or the school in which the child or youth was last enrolled, including preschool. The “school of origin” also includes the receiving school at the next grade level for all feeder schools. Typically, we presume that the school of origin is in the student’s best interest, except when doing so is contrary to the request of the parent or guardian, or, (in the case of an unaccompanied youth) the youth. The school of origin usually provides the least interruption to a child’s education. The school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area are eligible to attend. Placement of the student should always be in the student’s best interest and the least interruptive of continued education, relationships, etc. Who determines McKinney-Vento eligibility of a student in transition? The Transitional Education Liaisons and staff interview families to determine eligibility based upon criteria as set forth by McKinney-Vento. Families may be referred through the District Welcome Center, school staff, and shelters. Can students be enrolled without the proper documentation? The McKinney-Vento Act requires schools to enroll homeless students even if they do not immediately have paperwork normally required. School records, immunization, or health records should be obtained as soon as possible. Who are Unaccompanied Homeless Youth? Homeless youth that are completely on their own without any parental support Homeless youth staying with a non-custodial caregiver How long can a homeless student or unaccompanied youth attend the school of origin? The entire duration of the homelessness or until the end of the school year in which the student becomes permanently housed Students who become homeless over the summer may also remain in their school of origin for the upcoming school year. 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. BY THE NUMBERS FY26 480 346 Schools Staff Trained People Received Non-Monetary Support & Connections to Resources 344 Cases Conducted 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

School Safety and Threat Assessment We strive to enhance the overall safety of every school and proactively protect students and staff from threats and acts of violence in an effort to foster the best learning environment possible. WHAT WE DO The purpose of West40’s School Safety and Threat Assessment team (STAT) is to enhance the overall safety and security of every school. We strive to help proactively protect students and staff from threats and acts of violence to foster the best learning environment possible. We can provide coaching and training tailored to your needs in areas of safety and threat assessment, including but not limited to: Independent Physical Security Assessments Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) Development and Flip Charts Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) Assembling an Effective Threat Assessment Team Threat Assessment Plan Assistance Behavioral Warning Signs of Violence Suicide and Violence Prevention through Social Media Awareness Training on Security Awareness, Emergency Preparedness, Crisis Response, and Security Operations Incident Command System (ICS) Training/Certification Assistance with Reunification Planning and Process Tabletop and Full-scale Exercises Where Participants Test Functional Roles They are Expected to Play in Real-time Events Security Related Procedural Needs Evaluation of Staffing Requirements Needed to Address Security Physical Security Architectural Planning Considerations SRO and Law Enforcement Partnership Support WE ARE READY TO HELP. When we say the success of kids is in all of our hands, that includes ensuring a safe environment that they feel confident coming back to every day. Reach out and connect to learn more! BY THE NUMBERS FY26 300 49 Hours of Training and Coaching Attendees at the Free Illinois Safety Conference HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. SCHOOL SAFETY & THREAT ASSESSMENT TEAM STEVE BOGREN Chief Comprehensive Educational Services Officer sbogren@west40.org PHILIP ABRAHAM Director of Comprehensive Educational Services pabraham@west40.org WIL GAGE Director of School Safety & Threat Assessment wgage@west40.org RANDY BRAVERMAN School Safety & Threat Assessment Specialist rbraverman@west40.org ALEX CAMPOS CES/STAT Specialist acampos@west40.org

Non Public School ALL FORMS RECORDS & REQUIREMENTS NPSR Recog-Eval-Glossary FY26 41. Download PDF Non Public Recognition Instrument FY26 44. Download PDF NPSR Registration for Recognition FY23 42. Download PDF NPSR Recog-Eval-Glossary FY26 41. Download PDF NPSR Registration for Recognition FY23 42. Download PDF Non Public Recognition Instrument FY26 44. Download PDF HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. STEVE BOGREN Chief Comprehensive Educational Services Officer sbogren@west40.org PHILIP ABRAHAM Director of Comprehensive Educational Services pabraham@west40.org

Compliance West40 conducts inspections of more than 300 items, including students' and staff files, health records, fingerprinting and background checks, mandated teacher training and school curriculum, to improve and support the programs necessary to provide quality educational experiences to students. ALL FORMS RECORDS & REQUIREMENTS OTHER AED Example Plan 1. Download PDF Annual Review of Crisis Plan 3. Download Doc Counseling Service Needs Assessment 7. Download PDF IL Mandated Trainings 11. Download PDF Integrated Pest Management Plan 13. Download Doc Mandated and Recommended Training Requirements FY25 16. Download PDF Safety Drill Documentation FY25 20. Download Doc Website Publishing Requirements for School Districts 26. Download PDF Accelerated Placement Act 2. Link Coming Clarification Immunization Requirements School 5. Download PDF District Safety Review 8. Download PDF IL Mandated Units of Study 12. Download PDF Mandated Units of Study FY24 15. Download PDF SSDA Requirements FY24 19. Download Doc Student Permanent Records 24. Download PDF Concussion Items 6. Download PDF LTC Reference Guide Website Publishing 14. Download PDF Transitional Bilingual Education Code 25. Download PDF Erin's Law 10. Link Coming NDEP School Guide 17. Download PDF Checklist for Individual Employee 4. Download PDF Non Cert. Personnel Checklists 18. Download Doc Sex Equity Survey 22. Download Doc Employee Bus Driver Checklist 9. Download Doc Sample Pupil Personnel Services Survey 21. Download PDF Sex offender and child murder Form 23. Download Doc AED Example Plan 1. Download PDF Annual Review of Crisis Plan 3. Download Doc Clarification Immunization Requirements School 5. Download PDF Counseling Service Needs Assessment 7. Download PDF Employee Bus Driver Checklist 9. Download Doc IL Mandated Trainings 11. Download PDF Integrated Pest Management Plan 13. Download Doc Mandated Units of Study FY24 15. Download PDF NDEP School Guide 17. Download PDF SSDA Requirements FY24 19. Download Doc Sample Pupil Personnel Services Survey 21. Download PDF Sex offender and child murder Form 23. Download Doc Transitional Bilingual Education Code 25. Download PDF Accelerated Placement Act 2. Link Coming Checklist for Individual Employee 4. Download PDF Concussion Items 6. Download PDF District Safety Review 8. Download PDF Erin's Law 10. Link Coming IL Mandated Units of Study 12. Download PDF LTC Reference Guide Website Publishing 14. Download PDF Mandated and Recommended Training Requirements FY25 16. Download PDF Non Cert. Personnel Checklists 18. Download Doc Safety Drill Documentation FY25 20. Download Doc Sex Equity Survey 22. Download Doc Student Permanent Records 24. Download PDF Website Publishing Requirements for School Districts 26. Download PDF HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. STEVE BOGREN Chief Comprehensive Educational Services Officer sbogren@west40.org PHILIP ABRAHAM Director of Comprehensive Educational Services pabraham@west40.org

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 JOIN US LEARN HOW YOU CAN HELP ABOUT US PROGRAM DESIGN OUR JOURNEY STATS PARTNERS

How-to videos How to navigate the IARSS online compliance process Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. STEVE BOGREN Chief Comprehensive Educational Services Officer sbogren@west40.org PHILIP ABRAHAM Director of Comprehensive Educational Services pabraham@west40.org

Fingerprinting We conduct background checks for pre-employment screening, licensing requirements, and other authorized purposes for educators, business professionals, and community members on a Live Scan fingerprinting system. Appointments last approximately 15 minutes, and prints are submitted to the Illinois State Police and FBI. Results can take up to two weeks but are typically received within a week. SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT Wayfinding When you arrive: Ring the doorbell to the right of the door and it will be the first door on your right. 415 Lexington St, Maywood IL, 60153 Map Directions to Fingerprinting Here! HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. BILLY BALDERAS Pearson Vue/Work Keys Test Proctor West40 Fingerprinting bbalderas@west40.org

Mandated Training 2024-2025 School Year Mandated Training document from the Illinois State Board of Education. Download Mandated Training PDF

Professional Learning Empowering educators empower students AREAS OF SUPPORT MONTHLY STATS WHO WE'VE SERVED LISTEN. COLLABORATE. TRANSFORM. We start by LISTENING to a district's current reality, digging deep into their vision and identifying what we'll need to bring that vision to life. 62% 93% of our districts who take part in a NEED ASSESSMENT engage in a transformative Professional Learning Cycle. Next we COLLABORATE , distributing our time together between co-planning, one-on-one or team coaching and co-facilitating right alongside district we serve. Becoming an active partner to districts we serve is essential to them, which is why 72% of our time together is spent in collaboration. 218 of our Professional Learning Cycle participants engage in a MULTI-YEAR TRANSFORMATION with us. LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT WE DO in about days, our collaborative partnerships TRANSFORM districts' visions into a reality WHO WE'VE SERVED Interested in learning more of what resources we have that can help you? CLICK HERE! Resources ACADEMIC & BEHAVIORAL Administrator Academy Co-Teaching Danielson Training Differentiation and Inclusion Evaluative Calibration Growth Mindset Instructional Coaching Instructional Innovation BEHAVIORAL Classroom Ecology FBA/BIP Consult Individual Student Evaluation Educator Coaching Paraprofessional Training Multi-Tiered System of Support Classroom Management De-escalation Techniques CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT District and School Improvement Summative Designation Support 5 Essentials Training Danielson Training Leadership Coaching NWEA/IAR Training and Support Standards Based Practices Strategic Planning Data Analysis SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES Assistive Technology Needs Classroom Best Practice Supports Curriculum Adaptation Differentiation IEP Development Inclusion Program Development Sign Language Resources Transition Age Support Understanding and Supporting Students with Special Needs SEL (SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL LEARNING) Social-Emotional Learning Hub Supports Trauma Informed Practices LGBTQIA+ Policy and Practices Support Safe2Help Mental Health Toolkit Promoting a Culture of Attendance Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Digital Literacy De-escalation Techniques Tiered Intervention Strategies School Improvement Action Planning Data Analysis and Systems Review Multi-Tiered System of Support HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. PROFESSIONAL LEARNING TEAM plteam@west40.org MEET THE TEAM