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NewHope Academy

Where Bright Students Shine

At NewHope Academy, we provide students with average to above average intelligence with a small, safe, and supportive educational environment. Since its inception, hundreds of students have utilized our program; many of them returning to their home schools full-time and achieving success in college.

School Info

Hours
Mon – Thu 8:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Fri 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Grades
6-12, Adult Prep Program

  • 2026–2027 Calendar (Grades 6–12)

    Learn more about important dates on our 2026-2027 school year calendar.
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  • 2026–2027 Extension of Services (EOS) Calendar

    Learn more about important dates on our 2026-2027 school year calendar.
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  • 2025–2026 Calendar (Grades 6–12)

    Learn more about important dates on our 2025-2026 school year calendar.
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  • 2025–2026 Extension of Services (EOS) Calendar

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  • Bullying Policy

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  • Authorization to Administer Medication

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  • Release of Information Form

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  • Understanding Type 1 Diabetes for Parents and Guardians

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  • School Newsletter

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  • Virtual Calming Room

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  • Illinois Code of Professional Conduct for Illinois Schools

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New Hope Academy: Where Potential Finds Purpose

About Us
New Hope Academy (NHA) in Arlington Heights, Illinois, is a therapeutic day school for students in grades 6–12 with average to above-average intelligence who face challenges in traditional school settings. These challenges may include emotional regulation, social interaction difficulties, or executive functioning issues. NHA provides a supportive environment where students can re-engage with learning and discover their strengths.

Education Program
NHA offers a rigorous academic program aligned with Illinois standards. Small class sizes and individualized instruction help meet each student’s unique needs. Emphasis is placed on executive functioning, re-engagement in learning, and preparing students for a successful transition to mainstream schools, graduation, or college.

Therapeutic Support
Therapy is integrated into each student’s daily experience. Licensed clinicians provide individual, group, and family therapy, and case managers work closely with students and families. The therapeutic program includes trauma-informed care and regular collaboration with external mental health providers.

Extension of Services (EOS)
For students ages 17–21, the EOS program supports transition to college or employment. Services include job coaching, community-based instruction, postsecondary planning, and life skills training to promote independence.

Extracurricular Activities
Students have access to electives like art, music, and horticulture. Participation in the Chicago Area Alternative Education League (CAAEL) allows students to engage in team sports, academic competitions, and leadership development. Enrichment activities such as service learning, field trips, and school events round out the experience.

Faith’s Law Compliance
New Hope Academy complies with all aspects of Faith’s Law, including mandated reporting requirements and educator misconduct policies. Staff are background-checked and trained in maintaining professional boundaries and ensuring student safety.

Discover What Sets NewHope Academy Apart

Our Learning Pathways

  • Twice-Exceptional Learners

    Twice-Exceptional Learners

    Students We Serve

    • Students with strong academic potential who benefit from specialized support to stay engaged

    • Learners who are artistically or musically gifted and may also face learning or behavioral challenges

    • Students who struggle with executive functioning skills such as organization and time management

    • Those experiencing emotional difficulties, including anxiety or depression, that interfere with school success

    • Students who have trouble with peer interactions or interpreting social cues

    • Learners who may use illness to avoid school or demonstrate school avoidance behaviors

    • Twice-exceptional (2e) students—gifted individuals with learning or behavioral differences

  • Academic and Behavioral Support

    Academic and Behavioral Support

    We cultivate learning environments where instruction aligns with industry standards and district-specific curriculum requirements and ongoing support encourages prosocial behavior inside and outside the classroom.

  • Successful Transitions

    Successful Transitions

    Whether students are transitioning to a less restrictive environment, progressing toward graduation, or earning a certificate of completion, we help ensure they receive the individualized guidance and support they need to reach their full potential.

  • Tailored Programs

    Tailored Programs

    We carefully assess unique student needs and then craft personalized programs that allow each student to reach their full potential—academically, socially, and emotionally. Progress is continuously monitored, ensuring key milestones are met and celebrated.

Meet Our Team

With deep experience and dedication to helping all students discover their full potential, our leaders provide an unwavering commitment to supporting our teachers, therapists, and other staff while fostering relationships with families and district partners.

  • Bethany-Artega-Headshot-(NHA-Director)

    Bethany Ortega has been a dedicated member of the NewHope Academy community for 13 years. She began her career at NewHope as a Spanish teacher before moving into leadership roles as Assistant Principal and Principal. She is honored and excited to now serve as Director of NewHope Academy.

    Bethany holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing, a bachelor’s degree in education with a focus in secondary education and foreign languages, a Special Education LBS1 endorsement, and a master’s degree in educational leadership from National Louis University.

    She is committed to creating a school environment where students feel safe, understood, supported, and challenged to grow. Bethany believes meaningful progress begins with strong relationships, clear expectations, consistency, and individualized support. She believes students deserve academic and therapeutic programming that recognizes their strengths, responds to their needs, and provides opportunities for them to experience success.

    Bethany is incredibly proud to work alongside NewHope Academy’s dedicated staff and therapy team. They meet students where they are, build meaningful relationships, and help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. She believes the school’s greatest impact occurs when teachers, therapists, administrators, families, districts, and students work together toward shared goals.

    She looks forward to continuing to strengthen NewHope Academy’s programming, support and develop its staff, expand district partnerships, grow enrollment, and ensure the academy remains a trusted therapeutic school placement for students and families.

    Outside of work, Bethany is married and the proud mother of two sons who are both in college. She enjoys cooking, gardening, traveling, and spending time with her family. These parts of her life keep her grounded and reinforce her belief in the importance of connection, growth, and creating spaces where people feel valued and supported.

What People Are Saying

Across our schools and programs, we’re proud to partner with families, educators, and district leaders to support student success. Hear firsthand how our collaborative approach, experienced staff, and commitment to individualized education are making a lasting impact in classrooms and communities.

  • Tremendous Support, Time After Time

    NewHope Academy has been a tremendous support for many of our students and it is my go-to for students who fit the NewHope profile. Excellent academics and therapeutic support, extremely well-run. High quality staff. Extremely organized and efficient support staff. The team does a great job when working with difficult parents, advocates, and difficult situations in general.

    Sharon M.

Events & Stories

  • NewHope Academy Mental Health Fair welcome station with passport instructions and activity booths.

    NewHope Academy’s First Student Mental Health Fair

    NewHope Academy students planned and hosted the school’s first Mental Health Fair, creating interactive wellness experiences for families and community members.
    July 16, 2026
  • Bernese Mountain Dog therapy dog sitting calmly inside New Hope Academy

    Therapy Animals Create Calm at New Hope Academy

    At NewHope Academy in Arlington Heights, support for students can come in many forms. Sometimes, it has fur, floppy ears,…
    May 22, 2026
  • Polaroid photos displayed on a table featuring students enjoying prom night at NewHope Academy.

    NewHope Academy Students Boogie Down at Prom

    A 70s Themed Celebration Students at NewHope Academy stepped back in time for an afternoon of dancing during the school’s…
    May 18, 2026

FAQ’s

  • If you work at a school district and want to learn more about our school and the referral process, the next step is to contact us directly. We’ll provide detailed information about our programs, answer your questions, and set-up a time for you to come tour our program.

  • We individualize the learning experience by creating a tailored plan for each student based on their unique strengths, needs, and goals. This includes personalized instruction, behavioral support, and regular progress monitoring to ensure growth academically, socially, and emotionally. By collaborating closely with families and school districts, we provide a supportive environment where every student can thrive.

  • The next step is to contact us to schedule a tour of our school. This will give you the opportunity to meet our team, explore our facilities, and learn more about how we can support your child.

  • You can schedule a tour by calling our office or filling out the contact form on our website. Our team will work with you to find a convenient time for your visit.

  • The enrollment process begins with a referral from your local school district based on your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). Your district will evaluate your child’s needs and determine if placement is the most appropriate option. Once the referral is made, we’ll guide you through the next steps, including scheduling a tour and completing any necessary paperwork.

Contact NewHope Academy