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DeKalb Today
By the People, for the People
Therapeutic Day School to Relocate to DeKalb, Targeting August Opening
The former Camelot School campus will house the new facility, which aims to serve up to 100 students with special needs.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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A therapeutic day school operated by Specialized Education of Illinois (SESI) is expected to relocate from Belvidere to DeKalb, Illinois, with plans to open the new facility as early as August 2026. The school will occupy the former Camelot School campus at 315 N. Sixth St. and provide special education services for students ages 3 to 21.
Why it matters
The relocation of the therapeutic day school to DeKalb represents an important expansion of specialized education resources in the region, addressing the needs of students with disabilities who require tailored learning environments and support services. The facility's opening could also have broader community impacts, such as creating new jobs and attracting families seeking specialized education options.
The details
The DeKalb City Council voted to approve rezoning and special use permit requests by SESI to allow the relocation. While the former Camelot School building will undergo interior renovations, no major demolition is planned. Once operational, the facility will serve up to 100 students and employ up to 64 staff members. Project leaders met with city officials, including the police and fire departments, to address safety and security measures for the new school.
- The DeKalb City Council voted to approve the relocation plans on February 12, 2026.
- SESI plans to move into the DeKalb site in July 2026 and open the new facility a month later in August 2026.
The players
Specialized Education of Illinois (SESI)
The company behind the therapeutic day school, High Road School, which is relocating from Belvidere to DeKalb.
Bill Nicklas
The DeKalb City Manager, who described the staff-level discussions about the relocation as "constructive" and urged the City Council for its support.
Tracy Smith
The Third Ward Alderman in DeKalb, who initially had some concerns about the site's history but expressed optimism after a meeting with project leaders.
What they’re saying
“Very positive results came out of that meeting. One thing you'd think is important is they've agreed to meet with the [police department] and the fire department just so they understand how they operate. And I think that's fair.”
— Tracy Smith, Third Ward Alderman (shawlocal.com)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
The relocation of the therapeutic day school to DeKalb represents an important expansion of specialized education resources in the region, addressing the needs of students with disabilities who require tailored learning environments and support services. The facility's opening could also have broader community impacts, such as creating new jobs and attracting families seeking specialized education options.
