Top 5 Best Special Needs Schools in Tempe, Arizona (2026)

ACCEL is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing exceptional educational and therapeutic services for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder, behavior disorders, and intellectual disabilities. The core mission of ACCEL is to empower children and adults to learn, work, and live with dignity and independence, ensuring a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life for every individual served. ACCEL offers a comprehensive range of programs tailored to meet the unique needs of its students. Key offerings include: - K-12 Education: Exceptional educational, behavioral, therapeutic, and vocational programs for individuals aged 5 to 22. - The Bista Program: Services for children aged 18 months to 13 years, utilizing evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and social skills groups. - Adult Services: Lifelong educational and vocational training for individuals over 18 years of age with developmental disabilities. What sets ACCEL apart is its commitment to individualized attention, reflected in low student-teacher ratios and a supportive campus environment. The organization employs specialized technology and innovative teaching methodologies to enhance learning experiences. Additionally, ACCEL provides vocational training and community integration opportunities, ensuring that students are well-prepared for life beyond the classroom. Summer programs further enrich the educational journey, making ACCEL a unique and valuable resource for families seeking the best options for their loved ones with special needs.

• Special education school
• Autism
• behavior disorders
• Intellectual disability

The Autism Academy for Education and Development operates a Tempe campus at 7541 S. Willow Dr. as part of its network of Arizona locations dedicated exclusively to students with autism. It provides K-12+ education with pathways for academics, vocational training, and essential life skills. The school is a fully accredited private day school approved by the Arizona Department of Education. Programs incorporate in-house therapies including speech, occupational, behavioral, and social skills support delivered alongside classroom instruction. Staff are trained in Safety-Care techniques. Enrollment is open for the 2026-2027 school year. Families contact the school directly for tours, admissions, and placement details. A post-12th grade B.R.I.D.G.E. program supports transition for older students.

• Private special education day school
• Autism
• Accredited
• Private school

AZ Aspire Academy is a nurturing educational institution dedicated to providing customized learning experiences for exceptional learners, including those with various learning challenges such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, and medical fragility. The academy's core mission is to create a compassionate environment where each student's unique learning style and needs are prioritized, ensuring that all students receive the attention and support they require to thrive academically and socially. Key offerings at AZ Aspire Academy include one-to-one academic instruction tailored to individual learning plans, small group classes in subjects like STEM, art, yoga, and physical education, and a focus on social skills development through specialized programs. The academy employs rigorous educational methodologies, including mastery-based coursework and individualized curricula, ensuring that every student progresses at their own pace. Additionally, the school accepts various funding options, including ESA funding and district placements, to make education accessible for all families. What sets AZ Aspire Academy apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention and support. The academy features a comfortable and engaging learning environment, with private desk areas for each student and access to dedicated instructors and resources. This holistic approach not only fosters academic success but also promotes emotional well-being and social integration, making AZ Aspire Academy a unique choice for parents seeking the best educational options for their exceptional children.

• Special education school
• ADHD
• Autism
• Dyslexia

Banner Academy is a nationally accredited private day school located at 1410 W. 10th Pl. in Tempe, Arizona. It provides education to students in grades 4 through 12 who have autism spectrum disorder as well as other emotional and learning disabilities. The school uses small classes and individualized curriculum developed after assessing each student's learning style, strengths, and needs. Certified teachers deliver standards-based instruction in core subjects while a licensed professional counselor offers individual and group sessions focused on coping strategies and emotional regulation. Additional supports include weekly music therapy and animal-assisted therapy. Families and school districts in the Phoenix area place students at Banner Academy. Many enrollments occur through IEP team recommendations, with the home district covering tuition and services. The school follows a modified public school calendar with hours from 8:00 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. and offers summer and extended school year programs for qualifying students.

• Private special education day school
• Autism
• Learning differences
• ADHD

Austin Centers for Exceptional Students is a state-certified special education school founded in 1995, serving students ages 5 through 22 across six campuses in the Phoenix area, including Tempe. Individualized learning programs address each student's academic and behavioral needs. The Exceptional Student Program serves K-12 students with emotional disabilities and other academic and behavioral challenges, Rising Stars serves students with autism spectrum disorder, developmental delays and intellectual disabilities, and Step Ahead serves K-12 students with intellectual, physical and multiple disabilities who may also have behavioral challenges. On-site services include counseling, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, animal therapy, a sensory room and a transition pathway. Around a third of students integrate back into public schools each year.

• Special education school
• Autism
• emotional disabilities
• Intellectual disability