Hillside School & Center for Dyslexia

Alaya Preschool, located in the heart of Boulder, Colorado, has been a nurturing environment for young children aged 2 to 5 for over 45 years. The school's core mission is to cultivate genuine relationships and foster emotional and social growth in children with diverse learning needs, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. Alaya emphasizes a holistic approach to early childhood education, where children learn through direct experiences and safe relationships with peers and adults. The curriculum is enriched by programs that focus on social competency, language development, emotional well-being, and creative expression, all within a homelike setting that encourages exploration and play. What sets Alaya apart is its commitment to low student-teacher ratios and strong family partnerships. Parents are actively involved in their child's education through various activities, including classroom participation and community service projects. This collaborative spirit extends to the school's unique facilities, and the expansive outdoor play areas that include dedicated spaces for each class as well as a school garden. Alaya's guiding principles draw from Shambhala Buddhist traditions, emphasizing kindness, respect for each child's growth, and the celebration of basic goodness within every individual. This supportive framework not only nurtures child development but also honors the unique experiences of each child in a joyful community atmosphere.

Halcyon School is Boulder Valley School District's day program for students whose social-emotional and mental health needs require a specialized special education setting. Students from elementary grades through age 21 are placed through a district and special education team process. They keep concurrent enrollment at their home schools while working with Halcyon staff toward a return to a less restrictive environment. Programming combines academic instruction with affective education. The school's stated goal is to give students tools to be safe, healthy, and successful at school, at home, and in the community. The Halcyon principal also administers BVSD's Transitions Program and oversees homebound programming. The campus is at 3100 Bucknell Court in Boulder.

Temple Grandin School is a private school in Boulder for neurodivergent middle and high school students. Founded in 2011 and named for Dr. Temple Grandin, it uses a socio-academic model so students can study academics while also practicing social communication, executive function, and independence skills. Students with autism and ADHD are described as a particularly strong fit. Classes of four to eight students are multi-age and staffed by a subject teacher plus a student support team member. The Individual Education Quest organizes the program around identity, intellect, interaction, and independence. Daily socio class covers social communication and relationship skills. A transitions program offers volunteer, internship, and college exploration, with counseling and accommodated standardized testing for college-bound students. Tuition is $48,880 per year. Interest-free payment plans and need-based financial aid are available; about 23 percent of students receive some aid. Admissions are rolling and include a family tour and a three-day student visit.