Best Special Needs Schools in West Memphis, Arkansas (2026)

Arkansas Early Learning (AEL) is dedicated to providing comprehensive early childhood education and support for children aged 0 to 5 years across 22 counties in Arkansas. With a mission to foster growth and development in a nurturing environment, AEL serves infants, toddlers, and pre-kindergarten students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds and varying developmental needs. The program emphasizes not only high-quality childcare but also an array of family support services designed to empower parents and enhance the overall well-being of families. AEL employs a holistic approach that integrates educational methodologies with therapeutic practices, ensuring that each child receives personalized attention tailored to their unique needs. The dedicated staff is deeply involved in the lives of the children they serve, fostering strong relationships that promote learning and emotional security. A notable feature of AEL is its commitment to maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios, which allows for individualized instruction and meaningful interactions. What sets Arkansas Early Learning apart is its emphasis on community engagement and family partnerships, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the classroom. The program not only prepares children for academic success but also cultivates social skills and emotional resilience through various community events and activities designed to strengthen family ties. In essence, AEL is more than just childcare; it is a vital resource for families seeking a safe, loving environment where their children can thrive during these formative years.

• Preschool
• Private school

St. Michael's Catholic School has taught children in West Memphis since 1936, and we celebrated our 90th anniversary in 2026. We are the school of St. Michael's Parish, with classrooms from Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 through the elementary grades. Our faculty averages 24 years of teaching experience, and nearly a third of our teachers hold master's or doctoral degrees. Beyond the homeroom, students have library time, art, and religion with liturgical music. Our curriculum is designed to form both intellectual and moral virtues, and we aim for a program that is rigorous without being burdensome, demanding but joyful. Families of all backgrounds are welcome to join our school community. Families stay involved through our PTO and parish fundraising, and we offer a summer camp each year.

• Catholic elementary school (PreK-5)
• Catholic education
• Experienced faculty
• Private school

West Memphis Christian School opened in 1970 with a daycare and kindergarten class of 50 students at the Missouri Street Church of Christ, then added a grade each year until our first senior class graduated in 1978. More than 800 students have graduated since. Today kindergarten through 12th grade share one campus at 1101 North Missouri Street: grades 7 to 12 moved into the building in 2006, grades 4 to 6 followed in 2015, and K to 3 joined in 2018. We are a non-denominational, coeducational Christian school accredited by the Arkansas Nonpublic Schools Accrediting Association, the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools and the National Christian School Association. Bible-based teaching runs through every subject, and small classes keep teachers closely connected with each student. An indoor sportsplex and football field were added in 2015, and our teams compete in football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, cross country, track, tennis, golf and cheer. For 2026-27, tuition is $8,500 for kindergarten through 6th grade and $9,700 for grades 7 to 12, payable yearly, quarterly or monthly. We participate in the Arkansas Education Freedom Account program.

• Christian school (K-12)
• College preparatory
• Small class sizes
• Christian education