Best Special Needs Schools in San Rafael, California (2026)

Star Academy is a non-public, non-profit school in San Rafael, California that provides individualized academic instruction to students with learning differences from third grade through post-high school. Founded in 1990, the school serves approximately 80 students each year who are bright and motivated but face challenges in areas such as dyslexia, language processing, executive function, ADHD, high-functioning autism, and social communication. The program features multi-sensory instruction aligned with California content standards, small classes, and daily access to specialists including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, literacy specialists, and counselors. Students may pursue a diploma or certificate of completion. A Post-High School Program for ages 18-22 partners with College of Marin to support continued academics, independent living skills, and transition. Families may enroll privately or through public school district placement via an IEP. The school is WASC-accredited and draws students from multiple Bay Area counties.

• Private special education day school (non-public school)
• Dyslexia
• phonemic awareness
• reading fluency

The Helix School, located in San Rafael, CA, is a non-public educational institution dedicated to nurturing the capabilities of children aged 5 to 22 with autism spectrum disorder. The school's core mission is to provide an interdisciplinary, relationship-based educational setting that fosters growth and development tailored to each student's unique needs. The Helix School offers a range of specialized programs and services designed to support students with autism. Key offerings include an integrated curriculum that addresses developmental levels, sensory processing differences, and emotional-regulatory needs. The school emphasizes motivation and utilizes kinesthetic and sensory-based learning styles. Therapeutic methodologies include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups, ensuring a comprehensive approach to education and personal development. What sets The Helix School apart is its commitment to individualized attention, reflected in low student-teacher ratios that promote meaningful relationships and personalized learning experiences. The campus environment is designed to be supportive and engaging, incorporating specialized technology to enhance learning. Additionally, the school provides vocational training and summer programs, facilitating community integration and preparing students for future success.

• Special education school
• Autism
• Accredited
• Therapeutic program

At Winston Preparatory School Marin County in San Rafael, we serve neurodivergent students in grades 3 through 12. Our private day school provides skill remediation and an individual program that is adjusted as students develop. The Marin County campus opened in 2020. Students have a daily 45-minute, one-to-one session with a Focus teacher who targets their learning goals. Focus teachers coordinate with classroom teachers and provide weekly family updates. Academic work is paired with opportunities to develop independence, responsibility, self-awareness and self-advocacy.

• Special education school
• Dyslexia
• Learning differences
• ADHD