Best Special Needs Schools in Dover, Delaware (2026)

Kent County Community School is a referral-based countywide public program within Capital School District that serves students from Capital, Caesar Rodney, Lake Forest, Milford, and Smyrna School Districts. It has approximately 287 students across seven sites ranging in age from two to twenty-two who exhibit a variety of disabilities including physical, sensory, cognitive, communication, and those who are medically fragile. The school also operates as the Delaware Autism Program for the Capital School District. Students with the most profound needs attend the Main Site, which serves ages 2-22 and includes a Pre-K program, K-12 instruction in a separate setting, and transition programs. Satellite locations provide inclusion opportunities at several elementary, middle, and high schools. Two dedicated 18-22 programs focus on independent living and vocational skills. Placement is through referring school districts. The primary purpose is to deliver individualized educational programs supported by related services in a collaborative model.

• Public special education school
• moderate to severe disabilities
• physical disabilities
• Sensory support

Kent County Secondary Intensive Learning Center serves secondary students in Dover through Capital School District. The campus pairs its intensive learning setting with mentoring, positive behavior support, student support services, and a school success plan.

• High school
• Private school

Our Dover preschool has served young children and their families since 1954. We combine play-based learning with foundational skills, giving children opportunities to explore, create and develop socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically. Relationships among children, families and teachers are central to our approach. Our Afternoon Little program grew from the need for consistent care before and after school, and family participation remains part of our school community.

• Preschool