The Independence High School, housed at the north building of Homewood-
Flossmoor High School,  is designed to educate adolescents with serious
emotional problems. The needs presented by the students are understood to 
represent their responses to personal and interpersonal stresses,
inappropriate behaviors and affective expressions, as well as inconsistent 
academic functioning, are seen as symptoms of the stress.

Programming at Independence high School is based on a multidiciplinary 
approach to the treatment of these severe emotional disturbances. The goal 
is to assist the student to realize their fullest potential for independent 
functioning through individualized academic, therapeutic, and adaptive 
programming. The school environment and learning opportunities are 
configured so the student has positive and fulfilling experiences. Learning 
occurs in self contained classrooms within a scheduled class itinerary, and 
through job opportunities.

The teachers are Illinois certified in the areas of social emotional 
disabilities and learning disabilities. The staff also includes social 
workers, instructional assistants, a speech/language pathologist, and a 
psychologist. Other specialized disciplines are available based on student 
need.

Independence serves students who reside within the school districts of the 
SPEED, ECHO , Eisenhower and Southwest Joint Agreements. Outside area 
students are also accepted when there is an opening. Referral for services 
is made through the SPEED referral system.