Best Special Needs Schools in Shakopee, Minnesota (2026)

Southwest Metro Intermediate School District 288 is dedicated to providing exceptional educational and therapeutic services for students with diverse needs. With a core mission focused on fostering an inclusive environment, the district serves a wide range of students, including those with special education requirements, ensuring that each child receives the support necessary to thrive academically and socially. Key offerings within the district include specialized programs such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for behavioral support, Orton-Gillingham for reading intervention, and comprehensive speech and language therapy. Additionally, occupational therapy and social skills groups are integral components of the curriculum, designed to enhance students' functional abilities and interpersonal skills. The district also provides adult education and career and technical education (CTE) programs, catering to older students and adults seeking vocational training. What sets Southwest Metro Intermediate School District 288 apart is its commitment to individualized education plans (IEPs) and a low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention for each student. The campus environment is designed to be nurturing and supportive, equipped with specialized technology to aid learning. Furthermore, the district offers summer programs and opportunities for community integration, allowing students to develop essential life skills in real-world settings.

• Special education school
• ADHD
• Autism
• Speech therapy

Montessori Unlimited is dedicated to providing a nurturing and stimulating early learning environment for children, particularly those who thrive in a hands-on, sensory-based educational setting. Serving infants through elementary-aged students, the school focuses on fostering independence and personal growth in children with diverse learning needs, including those with language-based learning disabilities and other special requirements. The Montessori approach emphasizes self-directed learning, allowing children to explore at their own pace within a carefully prepared classroom designed to inspire curiosity and collaboration. With MACTE-accredited teachers guiding students through tangible academic lessons in multi-age classrooms, each child receives personalized attention that caters to their unique developmental journey. What sets Montessori Unlimited apart is its commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, ensuring that every child receives the support they need. Additionally, strong partnerships with families are fostered through effective communication tools like Montessori Compass, enhancing the educational experience and building a supportive community around each child's growth and success.

• Montessori preschool
• Learning differences
• Private school