Our Mission is as Unique
as Each of Our Students



We transform our students from self-doubters to self-champions.
Hear about what makes HPDS unique in our new video
Our approach is what sets us apart.
It’s what makes our students successful.
Individualized Program
Our students are not expected to adapt to standard instruction. Instead, we employ talented staff, state-of-the-art technology, and integrated services to develop deeply individualized academic programs.
Research-Based
We constantly reference current industry-leading research and studies for ongoing guidance on curriculum and general life skill development, and our nimbleness allows us to make updates quickly.
Success Attributes
We evaluate each student’s self-awareness, pro-activity, perseverance, goal setting, use of support systems, and emotional coping strategies on an on-going basis to determine readiness for transition.
Positive Culture
We create a safe, nurturing environment that’s designed to foster self-esteem, confidence, and a genuine interest in learning for each student.
Dream(s) for the Future
Here is a poem made by the Chicago Campus. Students submitted their own dreams for the future and created this piece collectively. Click here to read their poem.
Key Dates for the 2021-2022 School Year
August 23, 2021 | First Day of School |
November 24-26, 2021 | Thanksgiving Break |
December 20-31, 2021 | Winter Break |
January 3, 2022 | First Day Back from Winter Break |
March 28-April 1, 2022 | Spring Break |
June 3, 2022 | Last Day of School |
Calendar PDF
Evan’s Encore: Running for Bright Futures
Mr. Hammontree has completed his 100-mile run! Thank you so much to everyone who contributed to his effort in some way. Because of you, HPDS can continue to help more bright students with learning disabilities!
Online Gifts and Payments
We cannot thank you enough for the immediate and powerful impact your generous gifts make to our school. Online donations are handled securely through a third-party credit card processor. Donate through Paypal today.
There’s No Place Like HPDS

A big THANK YOU to everyone who supported the HPDS Gala this year! It was a fun and successful evening in support of the Bright Futures Scholarship Fund! We are grateful to everyone who contributed in some way – thank you!
COVID-19 Planning
The Hyde Park Day School Administrative Team, in concert with the Board of Directors for the Leslie Shankman School Corporation, and the COVID-19 Response Team have developed a re-entry strategy that is broad in its scope, specific in its applications, and flexible in its deployment. Teaching and learning at HPDS is at its best when teachers, students, and clinical staff can work as closely as possible. The COVID-19 Response Team has incorporated recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, Illinois Department of Public Health, National Association of Independent Schools, Independent School Association of the Central States, and public health experts to address what we must do to provide in-person instruction.