What are private schools for students with learning disabilities and ADHD?
Expert reviewed by Bob Cunningham, EdM
At a glance
There are private schools that specialize in teaching kids with learning disabilities and ADHD.
Most of the teachers at these private schools have master’s degrees in special education, plus extra training.
These schools tend to cost a lot, but there may be some financial aid.
Parents, caregivers, and others may wonder about school options for kids who learn and think differently. Would a private school that focuses on kids with learning disabilities and ADHD be a good match?
These kinds of private schools are designed to serve students with certain challenges. Some may just be for kids with , for example.
Some kids may feel more relaxed in schools like this. They may be more willing to take part in classes if they’re not afraid of seeming “different” or getting teased.
Like all private schools, these schools can vary widely in how they’re set up and in what they offer students. But they tend to have these things in common:
- All of the students have a learning disability or ADHD.
- All of the teachers have special training to teach and support students with learning disabilities and/or ADHD.
- All of the school’s programs are designed to support the needs of these students.
Many of these schools offer smaller classes and a lower student-to-staff ratio than public schools. Most teachers at these private schools have master’s degrees in special education, plus extra training. And there are often specialists on the staff, like .
Dive deeper
Cost of specialized private schools
Special education and private schools
Questions for families to ask a private school
Next steps
About the author
About the author
Geri Coleman Tucker is a freelance writer and editor and a former deputy managing editor for
Reviewed by
Reviewed by
Bob Cunningham, EdM has been part of Understood since its founding. He’s also been the chief administrator for several independent schools and a school leader in general and special education.
