The Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School

The O-School works hard to provide a traditional school experience in a therapeutic setting. In addition to individual graduations, celebrating each student's unique journey of resiliency and growth, the O-School's holds an 8th Grade and High School Graduation Ceremony, honoring these two important milestones.

Congratulations to the O-School Class of 2026! We are so proud of all you have accomplished.

Here are a few scenes from the day.

Graduation is often viewed as a celebration of accomplishments, diplomas, and the exciting journey that lies ahead. While the milestone is familiar, every student's path is uniquely their own. At the O School, we honor those individual journeys by recognizing each graduate with a personalized graduation ceremony that reflects their growth, resilience, and achievements.

For many of our students, graduation represents far more than academic success. It is a testament to perseverance, self discovery, and the courage to overcome challenges along the way. It marks not only the completion of a chapter, but the beginning of a future filled with new possibilities.

As one graduate shared:
"When most people think about graduation, they will often think about the grades, the diplomas, and moving on to the next chapter. But for me, getting here has meant much more than that..."

They continued:
"This school taught me more than academic subjects. It taught me how to advocate for myself. It taught me that asking for help is not weakness but strength. It taught me that growth doesn't always happen in giant leaps—it often happens in small, courageous steps that nobody else notices..."

And perhaps most powerfully:
"Here at the O-School I learned that progress is not about being perfect. It's about showing up, trying again, and refusing to give up on ourselves."

We couldn't be prouder of our graduates and all they have accomplished. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Your courage, resilience, and determination inspire us all.

The O-School was thrilled to have the opportunity to preview the Obama Presidential Center and experience this incredible new addition to our community! Here are a few photos from our visit.

We are proud to welcome the Center to Woodlawn and honored to be its neighbor. The excitement surrounding this transformative space is inspiring, and we look forward to exploring future opportunities to partner with the Obama Presidential Center to support, engage, and strengthen our community for years to come.

Today is World Environment Day!

At the O-School, we encourage students and families to care for our planet and make choices that support a healthier future for generations to come.

This year's O-School Prom, "Under the Sea," was an ocean of fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories!

Students, families, and staff danced the night away surrounded by beautiful underwater themed decor, great music, delicious treats, and plenty of smiles. For many years, the O-School has proudly hosted special events like Prom as part of its mission of providing students with a rich, meaningful, and memorable school experience beyond the classroom.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this magical evening such a success. From the creative decorations designed and created by our students to the incredible energy and joy on the dance floor, it was truly a night to remember!

Jewish American Heritage Month

This month of May we honor Jewish American Heritage Month, recognizing the culture, perseverance, and impact of Jewish Americans throughout history. At the O-School, we value diversity and the lessons it brings to our community.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month! At the O-School, we celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian and Pacific American communities that have shaped our society.

Did you know that the Diagnostic Evaluation Center (DEC) serves children and adolescents, aged 4 to 21, providing neuropsychological, psychoeducational, and developmental evaluations, making the O-School’s unique educational and clinical lens available to any family in need?

Visit OSchool.org/DEC to learn more.

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month! At the O-School, we encourage movement, play, and healthy habits that build confidence, resilience, and lifelong wellness.

What an incredible afternoon at the 2026 O-School Student Arts Showcase! From amazing artwork displays to an outstanding musical performance, the day highlighted the creativity, talent, and hard work of our students.

It was awesome to see students proudly sharing their art with peers, staff, and families while celebrating the return of this special event. Thank you to everyone who helped the Student Art Showcase such a memorable experience behind the yellow door!