Top 4 Best Special Needs Schools in Owatonna, Minnesota (2026)

Associated Preschool, located in Owatonna, Minnesota, is a nurturing pre-kindergarten program dedicated to providing three, four, and five-year-old children with a positive and engaging first school experience. The school's core mission is to foster growth across physical, emotional, and intellectual domains in a relaxed and fun-filled environment. With small class sizes of ten to fifteen students per teacher, complemented by a teaching assistant, each child receives the individual attention they deserve. The curriculum emphasizes essential skills such as self-esteem promotion, cooperation, problem-solving, self-expression, and respect for oneself and others. Additionally, it integrates pre-reading and pre-math experiences while enhancing both large and small motor skills through various activities. Unique aspects of Associated Preschool include its strong emphasis on family partnerships through events like parent-teacher conferences and holiday celebrations, as well as the availability of scholarships for families in need. The dedicated teaching staff creates a calming atmosphere that supports children's social development while fostering their love for learning. This holistic approach not only prepares children academically but also builds lasting friendships and cherished memories within the preschool community.

• Preschool
• Private school

Pillsbury College Prep is a dedicated boarding school located in Owatonna, Minnesota, serving students in grades 6-12, including those with diverse learning needs such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The school's core mission is to empower young individuals to become confident and determined adults through a tailored educational experience that prioritizes both academic achievement and personal growth. With a commitment to understanding that each student learns differently, Pillsbury College Prep employs an innovative blended curriculum that adapts to various learning styles and paces, ensuring that every student receives the individualized attention they deserve. The school boasts a low student-teacher ratio, fostering strong relationships between educators and students while promoting an environment where each child feels known, valued, and challenged. Beyond academics, Pillsbury offers a rich array of after-school and weekend activities, that encourage students to explore their interests and develop essential life skills. Unique programs such as Camp Pillsbury and the English Language Learners (ELL) program further enhance the school's offerings by providing supportive environments for personal development and language acquisition. With specialized facilities designed for both learning and recreation, Pillsbury College Prep stands out as a nurturing community where students can thrive academically and socially.

• High school
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Boarding

Spanish and Somali interpreters support Washington Elementary families through Owatonna's district enrollment services. New and transferring students use a central enrollment process, with online registration or arranged in-person assistance. Incoming kindergarten children complete early childhood screening, and families can participate in before-school interviews. Once a child attends our Owatonna school, parents can work with the office and teaching team, use school communications and the calendar, and follow family resources. We connect classroom learning with family participation, school health support and the district's wider resources throughout the elementary years. District Special Services offers educational support for students with disabilities and information for families. School social workers address issues that can affect participation in school: attendance, peer conflict, behavioral concerns and mental health needs. They work with educational teams, provide counseling and help families find resources for their child. We connect Washington families with these staff members when they need assistance with school life. Families enrolling a kindergarten child complete early childhood screening and can attend a before-school interview. Central enrollment offers Spanish and Somali interpreter support for Washington families, as well as online registration and arranged in-person assistance.

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

Wilson Elementary is one of four elementary schools in Owatonna Public Schools, located on Meadow Lane. Our school counselor listens to students' academic, emotional and social concerns, mediates conflicts, welcomes new families during enrollment, manages 504 plans, teaches classroom lessons on respect, bully prevention and problem solving, and leads small social skills groups. A school social worker is also part of our student support team. Students can take part in band, orchestra and choir, serve on the safety patrol or join Wilson Student Leaders. Conferences paired with a book fair keep families connected to classrooms, and School Age Care (SAC) provides child care outside the school day. A contracted bus company provides transportation, and our health office supports students during the day.

• Public elementary school
• Public school