History

Our History

Oscar L. Dudley and Robert Todd Lincoln, son of President Abraham Lincoln, with the mission to provide dependent children in Illinois with a training school and protective shelter, founded Glenwood Academy in 1887.
In 1890, Milton George donated his 300-acre farm in Glenwood, Illinois, where the campus still thrives today.
Since its founding, Glenwood Academy has evolved to become an educational placement option that pays homage to the structure it was founded upon.
For over 130 years, Glenwood Academy has served more than tens of thousands of deserving students and their families.

Glenwood Today

Today, Glenwood Academy is very different, but maintains a similar purpose: providing resources and tools for a prosperous future to those who need it the most.

Our one-of-a-kind residential program removes barriers to critical support through mental and physical health services, social and emotional development, and consistent access to the basics: food, housing and safety, clearing the way for a successful educational journey.
Our military program at Glenwood Academy helps the young men and women who attend to develop unmatched leadership skills, and practice accountability and perseverance.
After 114 years of service to young men, Glenwood welcomed its first group of young women in 2001.
At Glenwood, students are supported by teachers, counselors, staff, and parents. We serve as an extension of a family’s resources and help to develop the student as a whole.
The school’s calm, picturesque 120 acres features residential cottages, classrooms, a gymnasium, library, administration building, and vast outdoor areas to run, play, garden, and grow.
After students graduate from our on-campus middle school program, they have the opportunity to attend one of three high schools we partner with: Marian Catholic High School, Illiana Christian High School, and Bloom Township High School.
100% of Glenwood graduates go on to attend college, attend vocational school, or enlist in the military.
100% of parents feel that their children are safe at Glenwood.
99% of our students report feeling supported in their academics while attending Glenwood.
99% of our students feel that they have meaningful relationships with their peers and their teachers at Glenwood.