Best Special Needs Schools in Minnetonka, Minnesota (2026)

Lionsgate Academy grew out of a 2006 community meeting of parents, educators and specialists who believed public schools could do a better job educating teenagers with autism. Today we are a tuition-free public charter school for grades 7 through 12, open to students of all abilities and designed around autistic learners and students with other learning differences. Our Minnetonka campus on Green Circle Drive was our first middle and high school campus, moved from the original site in Crystal, and it was the first building designed by and for our own school community. About 150 students attend in Minnetonka, taking four 70-minute classes a day on an A/B schedule. General and special education teachers work alongside on-site speech therapy, occupational therapy, adaptive physical education and social skills instruction, based on each student's evaluated needs. Students build job skills at school and in the surrounding parks, trails and downtown. Our LEO program serves intellectually and socially gifted students with leadership opportunities, and eligible students can earn college credit through PSEO.

• Public charter school (grades 7 to 12)
• Autism
• Learning differences
• Gifted and talented

Minnetonka Public Schools is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment for all students, including those with special needs. The district's mission is to empower every child to envision and pursue their highest aspirations while contributing positively to the community. Serving a diverse range of students, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners, Minnetonka Public Schools emphasizes personalized learning tailored to meet individual needs. The school employs innovative teaching methodologies and therapeutic programs designed to support academic achievement and personal growth. With a commitment to low student-teacher ratios, families can expect strong partnerships that enhance the educational experience. Unique offerings such as language immersion in Spanish and Chinese, as well as a nationally recognized music education program, further distinguish Minnetonka Public Schools as a leader in providing comprehensive educational opportunities that inspire confidence and excellence in every student.

• School
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Public school

The Gardner School is a premier preschool dedicated to nurturing the growth and development of children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. With a mission centered on fostering a child's emerging sense of self, the school provides an academically-focused curriculum that encourages exploration, independence, and socialization within a safe and supportive environment. The experienced and compassionate educators at The Gardner School employ creative play and structured learning to engage young minds, ensuring that each child thrives both intellectually and emotionally. Located in vibrant communities across Colorado, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia, The Gardner School stands out with its low student-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention and strong family partnerships. This commitment to individualized care is complemented by specialized facilities designed to enhance learning experiences and community events that foster connection among families. Parents consistently express their gratitude for the exceptional care their children receive, highlighting the school's dedication to health and safety as well as its emphasis on open communication about each child's daily progress.

• Preschool
• Private school