August 2026

Dear Lake County Community,

As we begin a new school year, we are pleased to highlight the work of TrueNorth Special Education Cooperative 804 and its renewed commitment to helping students with diverse learning needs thrive.

With a renewed focus, strengthened partnerships, and a commitment to helping every student feel supported and valued, TrueNorth is looking ahead with purpose and optimism. This year’s theme - Belong. Believe. Become. - captures that vision and the importance of creating environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

We are proud to share TrueNorth’s story and the ways its continued evolution is helping create stronger opportunities and brighter futures for students across Lake County.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael Karner

Regional Superintendent of Schools

Lake County, Illinois

TrueNorth Special Education Cooperative 804 

As TrueNorth Special Education Cooperative 804 begins the 2026-2027 school year, we enter an exciting new chapter following a substantial reorganization and the implementation of a new governance model. With the full support of our 17 member districts, we are focused on strengthening our role as a partner in providing a comprehensive continuum of programs and services for students with diverse learning needs. 

A key focus for TrueNorth continues to be strengthening academic instruction while integrating therapeutic and social-emotional supports. Our Therapeutic Day School Campus, North Shore Academy, serves students kindergarten through age 22 and brings together educators, therapists, related service providers, and behavioral specialists in a highly supportive, student-centered model. 

Our work supports students in accessing the least restrictive environment (LRE) appropriate to their needs, with reintegration to the home district remaining an important goal when appropriate. 

We are also excited to re-ignite our partnership with Dr. Doug Bolton, who will serve as an on-going consultant. His focus on connection, belonging, relationships, and resilience closely aligns with this year's theme: Belong. Believe. Become. and TrueNorth's commitment to creating environments where students feel known, valued, accepted and ready to learn. 

With a strengthened governance structure, renewed organizational focus, and the continued partnership of our 17 member districts, TrueNorth begins the year with optimism, purpose, and a commitment to student success.