Top 5 Best Special Needs Schools in Temple City, California (2026)

Academicise is a dedicated educational institution located in Temple City, California, serving students from 1st to 8th grade, particularly those facing challenges such as language-based learning disabilities and other unique learning needs. The school's core mission is to alleviate the stress parents experience during homework time by providing comprehensive academic support and fostering a nurturing environment that emphasizes both academic achievement and social-emotional development. Academicise offers a balanced afterschool program that integrates focused instruction in essential subjects like math and language arts, alongside opportunities for outdoor play and physical activity in their spacious 3,600 square foot facility. What sets Academicise apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention for each child, as well as strong partnerships with families to create a supportive community. Additionally, the school provides convenient bus pick-up services from various local school districts, making it accessible for many families seeking quality afterschool care and enrichment.

• After school program
• Learning differences
• Transportation
• Private school

AfterSchool Planet is a dedicated educational environment designed to support children from Pre-K through 9th grade, particularly those facing unique learning challenges such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The core mission of the program is to provide an enriching after-school experience that combines academic support with therapeutic methodologies tailored to each child's needs. With a focus on individualized attention, the school maintains a low student-teacher ratio, ensuring that every child receives the guidance and encouragement necessary for their growth and development. The curriculum is enhanced by specialized programs that foster both academic skills and social-emotional learning, creating a holistic approach to education. What sets AfterSchool Planet apart is its commitment to building strong partnerships with families, recognizing that collaboration is essential for student success. Additionally, the school offers unique community events that promote engagement and inclusivity, making it not just an educational facility but a supportive community for families navigating the complexities of raising children with special needs.

• After school program
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Private school

Foothill Preparatory School was founded in 1995 in Arcadia as a private Christian college preparatory school and has served the Temple City community since moving here in 2018. We enroll students in grades 6 through 12 and are fully accredited by WASC. Our high school program offers Advanced Placement and University of California-approved courses, and middle schoolers can take high school math for credit. We keep classes intentionally small, and faculty stay on campus after school to give free tutoring and SAT prep. English Language Development courses help students who are still building English skills, and we enroll both local and international students. Students learn from a non-denominational Christian worldview, take Bible classes and take part in community service, though no statement of faith is required. Electives and activities include art, digital art, music, student government and yearbook. Academic, faith-based and sibling scholarships help families with tuition, and payment plans are available for domestic students.

• Private Christian college preparatory school (grades 6-12)
• College preparatory
• Small class sizes
• Free after-school tutoring

Oak Avenue Intermediate School serves seventh and eighth graders in Temple City, and in 2026 we received a California Distinguished Schools award and were named a National Middle School to Watch. We are a two-time platinum PBIS school, and students live by the Royal Three: compassion, integrity and responsibility. Music and performance run deep here. Band 1 and Orchestra 1 welcome students with no experience, auditioned intermediate and advanced bands and orchestras perform at school and community events, and students can also try out for Jazz Band. The Royal Choristers and Beginning Drama class covers musical theater and stagecraft with no audition, and the Royalettes auxiliary team competes in drill, dance, flag, pom, colorguard and more. Royals athletics fields a seventh and an eighth grade team in each sport for students with a 2.0 GPA or higher. ASB plans dances, spirit weeks, pep rallies and the talent show, yearbook is a full-year elective, and our Media Center gives students access to every Accelerated Reader test.

• Public middle school (grades 7-8)
• PBIS platinum school
• Instrumental music
• Public school

Temple City Early Learning Academy (TCELA) is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment tailored for children with diverse learning needs, particularly those aged 3 to 5 who may experience language-based learning disabilities or are classified as twice-exceptional. The academy's core mission revolves around creating a safe and supportive space where children can play, learn, and explore together, emphasizing the belief that fun is integral to effective learning. TCELA employs developmentally appropriate practices alongside innovative therapeutic methodologies that cater to each child's unique strengths and challenges. With a strong focus on collaboration, the school works closely with families to empower students in achieving their educational goals while promoting holistic development. Distinctively, TCELA boasts a low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support for every child. The academy also features specialized facilities designed to enhance the learning experience and hosts community events that foster connection and engagement among families, making it a truly exceptional choice for early education.

• Preschool
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Private school