Best Special Needs Schools in Bakersfield, California (2026)

Compare 1 special needs schools in Bakersfield. Explore the ranked list and find a program that feels right for your child.

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Valley Achievement Center - Bakersfield

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Bakersfield, CAGrades K-12 & up to 22

Valley Achievement Center (VAC) in Bakersfield, CA provides educational, adaptive, and social skills programs for children ages 3 to 22 with autism or other developmental disabilities. The Basic Education Day Program at 7300 Ming Avenue offers individualized instruction for students from kindergarten to age 22, collaborating with school districts or LEAs and parents to develop IEP goals based on state standards. It uses Applied Behavior Analysis and other evidence-based methods along with behavior assessment, intervention, and psychological services. VAC also runs a Preschool Program (ages 3-5) at the 1400 Stine Road location, an After School Program (ages 6-22) at Ming Avenue, and a Social Skills Program (ages 6-18) at Stine Road. These programs create Individualized Program Plans in collaboration with Kern Regional Center and families, emphasizing one-on-one or small-group instruction in structured environments to build communication, adaptive, and social skills. Enrollment and placement occur through district or LEA referrals for the nonpublic school program or through Kern Regional Center for other services. VAC has operated since 1998 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with multiple locations serving the Bakersfield area.

Nonpublic special education day school
Autism
Developmental disabilities
Emotional/behavioral support

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Planning guides

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How to choose a special needs school

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IEP process guide

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