PAEC Administration
Mr. James – Executive Director, Proviso Area for Exceptional Children (PAEC)
With over twenty-five years of dedicated experience in education and social services, Mr. James has devoted his career to improving the lives of students and their families. Since joining PAEC in 2016, he has held multiple leadership roles, including Principal, Assistant Executive Director, and, for the last four years, Executive Director. Throughout his tenure, Mr. James has been a driving force behind PAEC’s commitment to nurturing an environment of academic excellence and personal growth for all students.
Mr. James’s educational journey spans diverse roles, from assisting in creating and leading a private therapeutic K-12 day school to establishing a public alternative school as Principal. His experience also includes serving as a Teacher Assistant, a Substitute Teacher, a Director of Guidance Counseling in Chicago Public Schools (CPS), as well as holding several key administrative positions, such as Assistant Principal and Principal. His broad expertise allows him to support students with varying needs and to foster an inclusive, forward-thinking educational environment.
Before transitioning to education, Mr. James spent 11 years in social services, where he worked in residential and detention facilities. As a therapist, he helped families navigate challenges, from reuniting runaway youth with their families to stabilizing foster placements and rebuilding parent-child relationships. This invaluable experience has equipped him with the unique perspective of understanding the emotional and social needs of students, which he integrates into his educational philosophy.
Mr. James holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a focus on criminology from Andrews University and a Minor in French from Institut de Langue Francaise (France), a Master’s degree in Social Work from Loyola University, and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Aurora University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Concordia University.
Proviso Area for Exceptional Children (PAEC)
Founded in 1957, PAEC was created with the mission of providing high-quality education for students with diverse needs. Over the years, it has grown into an inclusive and supportive environment that values each student’s potential and works tirelessly to unlock it. At PAEC, we believe that every child, given the right resources and support, has the ability to excel both academically and behaviorally.
We are committed to creating a nurturing, accepting space where students are encouraged to reach their full academic potential. Our dedicated staff and administrators are deeply invested in the success of every student, offering personalized programs that cater to individual needs. We actively engage parents and community partners to create a comprehensive support system that helps ensure student success.
At PAEC, we understand that academic achievement is not only about learning in the classroom but also about creating an environment where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow into their best selves.
Ms. April Cohen –Assistant Director, Proviso Area For Exceptional Children (PAEC)
April Cohen is a dedicated and passionate educator originally from the south suburbs of Harvey.
Born in Chicago and raised in Harvey, Illinois, April grew up in a family of educators and
coaches, which deeply influenced her lifelong commitment to education, sports, and community
involvement. From an early age, she was actively engaged in volunteering, athletics, and local
events, interests that continue to be important in her life today. She enjoys bowling, participating
in community activities, and values downtime with naps and relaxation.
April's educational journey spans three institutions that laid a strong foundation for her career in
special education. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from the
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, initially aspiring to a career in media and television
broadcasting. However, her path shifted after working as a substitute teacher in Harvey School
District 152, where she was placed in a special education classroom. That pivotal experience
inspired her to pursue a new professional direction.
She went on to receive her Master’s in Special Education from Chicago State University,
followed by a second Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Concordia University.
Over the course of her career, April has served in a wide range of roles, including:
● Self-contained classroom teacher (K–2)
● Cross-categorical classroom teacher (4th–6th)
● Reading 180/System 44 teacher (9th–12th)
● Resource teacher (K–6th)
● Case manager (K–6th)
● Director of Special Services (Pre-K–8th)
Currently serving as the Assistant Executive at PAEC, April remains deeply committed to
supporting students with special needs. Her work is driven by a passion for advocacy and a
belief in educating and nurturing the whole child. She strives each day to help students reach
their full potential, preparing them for both academic success and meaningful lives as
contributing members of society.
April is honored to serve the students, families, and broader community of PAEC and continues
to make a lasting impact through her leadership and dedication.