Top 8 Best Special Needs Schools in Scottsdale, Arizona (2026)

True North fits families whose child is bright and capable but has struggled in a traditional classroom. We are a small nonprofit microschool in Scottsdale for neurodivergent learners in grades 1 through 8, including students with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, anxiety, sensory differences, and twice-exceptional profiles. Small class sizes let us individualize instruction for real, teaching foundational skills to mastery through structured literacy and multisensory math

• Private Special Education School
• Autism
• ADHD
• Multiple Disabilities

At our Scottsdale/PV campus, we provide individualized education for autistic students across elementary, middle, and high school. Our elementary program builds academic foundations, communication, regulation, and independence. Middle school students work on academics, executive functioning, social connections, self-advocacy, and life skills. High school students follow traditional or functional academic pathways with life skills, career exploration, community participation, and transition planning. Our Scottsdale campus is at 4859 E Greenway Road and has six classrooms.

• Special education school
• Autism
• Private school
• Elementary School

AZ Aspire Academy’s Scottsdale program is built around one-to-one teaching. We use assessments to understand where a student is starting and to track progress along an individual learning path. Staff can adjust instruction to a student’s pace, strengths, and support needs rather than moving an entire class at once. AZ Aspire is an Assist Enterprises school and a partner campus of Ascent Academy. Families can contact the academy to describe their student, ask which Scottsdale program is currently available, and discuss funding and enrollment options. Our admissions team asks families to allow up to 48 hours for a response.

• Special education school
• ADHD
• Autism
• Dyslexia

Copper Sky Academy is a Scottsdale microschool for bright students who learn differently, including children diagnosed with ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia. We currently serve 30 students ages 5 to 13 in kindergarten through 8th grade, with room for 35 to 40, and a high school phase is in development. Classes cap at 10 students, with teacher ratios between 1:5 and 1:10 depending on student needs. We use differentiated instruction, so a child can read at one level and work on math at another, and students advance when they show mastery rather than by the calendar. Evidence-based remediation targets gaps in literacy and math, and executive function coaching and social-emotional support are built into the school day. Families receive quarterly progress reports in place of traditional report cards. Students still get recess and field trips. Enrollment begins with a parent interview, then a meeting and tour with the lead instructor, plus a shadow day when needed, and we accept Arizona ESA funding.

• Private microschool (K-8)
• ADHD
• Dyslexia
• Dysgraphia

LEARN Academy School Support Services and Education Network is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other special needs. The core mission of LEARN Academy is to provide tailored educational and therapeutic solutions that foster success for every student, ensuring a comprehensive approach that involves families, educators, and school staff. Key offerings at LEARN Academy include: - Customized treatment programs based on contemporary, family-focused Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. - Evidence-based educational resources designed to support students from early childhood through post-secondary education. - Behavioral support services for students requiring additional assistance. - Professional development opportunities for educators, including mentorship and workshops that empower teaching staff. - Family engagement initiatives that provide strategies for effective learning at home and access to community resources. What sets LEARN Academy apart is its commitment to individualized support, with a focus on collaboration among students, families, and educational professionals. The academy emphasizes a low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention and tailored interventions. Additionally, LEARN Academy partners with top universities to offer internships, enhancing the educational experience and preparing students for future success. The inclusive environment fosters community integration and provides summer programs that focus on skill-building and social interaction, making it a unique resource for families seeking comprehensive support for their children with special needs.

• Special education school
• Autism
• Private school

In Scottsdale, AZ, Sierra Academy of Scottsdale runs a SESI day-school program for K-12 students from a campus at 9128 East San Salvador Drive. Programming is organized around the Spark, Spring, and Bloom learning pathways, with placement driven by IEP and support profile. The school's related-services team provides Counseling, Life Skills, and Occupational Therapy on site. The school day runs Mon – Fri 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.. Within SESI Schools, Sierra is the day-school line built for autism and emotional support.

• Special education school
• Autism
• Behavioral Support Needs
• Emotional Disability

The United School for Autism, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, is dedicated to nurturing and empowering children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With a mission to inspire and challenge each student, the school serves a diverse range of learners, offering tailored educational experiences for children from grades 1 through 12+. The school employs a unique, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)-based approach, ensuring that both academic and social skills are developed in a supportive environment. The United School for Autism features three distinct educational tracks designed to meet the varying needs of its students. The Preparatory Track, aimed at grades 3-8, focuses on equipping students with the skills necessary for successful integration into mainstream schools, maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1. The Main Track serves students in grades 1-12+ who thrive in a 4:1 ratio, utilizing Direct Instruction methodologies to provide individualized academic programming alongside extracurricular activities and vocational training. For students requiring more intensive support, the Foundations Track offers a 2:1 ratio, emphasizing life skills development in addition to academic learning. What sets The United School for Autism apart is its commitment to fostering strong partnerships with families and its emphasis on experiential learning. The school's beautiful campus features large classrooms equipped with sensory break areas, a playground, a grass sports field, and a basketball court, all designed to enhance the educational experience. With a focus on exposing students to a variety of activities, including music and other extracurriculars, the school creates an environment where children can discover their interests and develop their potential to the fullest.

• High school
• Autism
• Private school