Top 9 Best Special Needs Schools in Woodbury, Minnesota (2026)

Woodbury Middle School, serving students in grades six through eight, is dedicated to fostering a culture of academic excellence, character development, and global citizenship within the SoWashCo Schools district. The school's core mission is to provide a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the diverse needs of its students, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. Woodbury Middle School is recognized as an Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) National Demonstration School, emphasizing the development of essential organizational skills and study habits that empower students to thrive academically. In addition to its rigorous academic programs, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, music, theater, robotics, and service-learning clubs, encouraging all students to explore their interests and engage with their peers. What sets Woodbury Middle School apart is its commitment to low student-teacher ratios and strong family partnerships that foster a supportive learning environment. The school also features specialized facilities designed to enhance educational experiences and hosts unique community events that strengthen connections among families and staff.

East Ridge High School, situated in Woodbury, Minnesota, is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for over 2,000 students in grades 9-12. The school's core mission revolves around empowering students, including those with diverse learning needs, to achieve their fullest potential. With a focus on a comprehensive curriculum, East Ridge offers a range of advanced coursework, including Advanced Placement classes and college-level opportunities through partnerships with the University of Minnesota. Additionally, students can delve into specialized programs such as biomedical sciences and engineering through Project Lead the Way, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. The school employs innovative therapeutic methodologies and personalized learning approaches to cater to the unique needs of its students. By maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, educators can provide individualized attention, fostering strong relationships that enhance learning outcomes. East Ridge High School also emphasizes the importance of family partnerships, recognizing that collaboration between home and school is vital for student success. What sets East Ridge apart is not only its commitment to academic excellence but also its vibrant community engagement. The school hosts various events, including storytelling sessions and food drives, which strengthen connections among students, families, and the wider community. This holistic approach ensures that every student feels valued and supported, making East Ridge High School a nurturing environment for all learners.

Brookview Elementary is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment for students with diverse learning needs, particularly those aged 5 to 12 who may face challenges such as language-based learning disabilities or are classified as twice-exceptional. The school's core mission centers on empowering each child to thrive academically and socially through tailored educational experiences. Brookview employs a holistic approach that integrates specialized programs and therapeutic methodologies, ensuring that every student receives individualized support designed to enhance their unique strengths and address specific challenges. What sets Brookview apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention that fosters meaningful connections between educators and students. The school emphasizes strong family partnerships, recognizing the vital role parents play in their children's education. Additionally, Brookview features specialized facilities that cater to various learning styles and needs, coupled with engaging community events that promote social interaction and collaboration among families. This comprehensive approach not only supports academic success but also nurtures resilience, curiosity, and a sense of belonging within the school community.

New Life Academy, located in Woodbury, MN, is a private Christian school serving students from Preschool through Grade 12. The academy is dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where each child is known, loved, and valued, with the core mission of preparing students to become faith-filled leaders ready for the future. Catering to a diverse range of learners, including those with unique educational needs, New Life Academy employs innovative teaching methodologies and therapeutic programs designed to support varied learning styles and challenges. The school stands out for its low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention that enhances educational outcomes. Additionally, strong partnerships with families and an array of extracurricular activities, further enrich the student experience. Recognized as one of the top K-12 private schools in Minnesota and celebrated for its excellence in education and community engagement, New Life Academy exemplifies a commitment to holistic development within a Christ-centered framework.

Defiant Jiu-Jitsu, located in Woodbury, Minnesota, is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school dedicated to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for students of all ages and skill levels. The school's core mission is to provide individualized training that not only develops martial arts skills but also promotes character growth and personal confidence. Catering to a diverse range of students, including children aged 5-15 and adults 16 and older, Defiant Jiu-Jitsu embraces those with varying fitness goals, from self-defense to competitive aspirations. The school employs a hands-on instructional approach that integrates various therapeutic methodologies, allowing each student to progress at their own pace while enjoying the journey of learning Jiu-Jitsu. Programs include both Gi and No-Gi classes, emphasizing technical precision in traditional Jiu-Jitsu as well as the dynamic nature of grappling. Additionally, personalized training sessions are available for those seeking tailored fitness plans or injury prevention strategies. What truly sets Defiant Jiu-Jitsu apart is its commitment to building a strong community through camaraderie and support among students and instructors. With a low student-teacher ratio, students receive focused attention that fosters meaningful relationships and encourages personal growth. The school also proudly serves as a We Defy Foundation Training Facility, offering combat veterans with military-connected disabilities a supportive space to overcome their challenges through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This unique partnership reflects the school's dedication to inclusivity and community engagement, making Defiant Jiu-Jitsu not just a place to train but also a nurturing environment where individuals can thrive both on and off the mat.

Woodbury High School, part of the SoWashCo Schools district, serves students in grades 9-12, focusing on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all learners, including those with diverse learning needs. The school's core mission is to provide a comprehensive educational experience that emphasizes college preparation through a diverse curriculum of over 150 courses, including Advanced Placement and specialized programs like Project Lead the Way. Additionally, Woodbury High School offers a unique pathway for students in the K-12 Spanish Immersion Program, enabling them to earn a bilingual diploma seal, which enhances their academic and cultural competencies. The school employs a range of therapeutic methodologies and personalized learning approaches to cater to the individual needs of students, ensuring that each learner can thrive academically and socially. With a commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, Woodbury High School fosters strong partnerships with families, creating a collaborative community that supports student growth and development. Unique community events and initiatives further enrich the school experience, making Woodbury High School not just an educational institution, but a nurturing environment where students can discover their potential and build lasting connections.

Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment for students with diverse needs, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. Serving approximately 33,000 students across 68 schools, SPPS emphasizes a mission that inspires critical thinking and personal growth while recognizing the unique challenges faced by each student. The district employs specialized programs and therapeutic methodologies tailored to individual learning styles, ensuring that every child receives the support they need to thrive. With a focus on low student-teacher ratios, SPPS nurtures strong partnerships with families, creating a collaborative community that empowers students both academically and socially. Unique offerings such as specialized facilities and community events further enrich the educational experience, making SPPS a leader in providing quality education for all students in the St. Paul area.

e² Young Engineers in Twin Cities, East Metro Minnesota, is a dynamic educational program designed to ignite a passion for learning in children aged 4 and up. The core mission of e² Young Engineers is to provide enriching experiences that blend education with entertainment, focusing on the fields of Robotics, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Through a carefully crafted curriculum that includes after-school and preschool enrichment classes, summer camps, and special events, children engage with motorized building blocks specifically developed for hands-on learning. This innovative approach fosters logical thinking and creativity while allowing students to explore their inventive potential in a supportive environment. What sets e² Young Engineers apart is its commitment to individualized attention within small group settings, ensuring that each child receives the guidance they need to thrive. The program employs an EDUTAINMENT model that captivates young minds and reinforces conceptual knowledge through practical application. With a strong emphasis on building foundational skills early in life, e² Young Engineers prepares children for future academic success while nurturing their innate curiosity. The passionate team behind the program brings personal insights as parents themselves, enhancing the connection with families seeking quality STEM education for their children.

Valley Crossing Elementary School is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, particularly those with diverse learning needs. The school's core mission emphasizes the importance of academic, social, and emotional learning, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported. Valley Crossing employs a variety of innovative programs and therapeutic methodologies tailored to address the unique challenges faced by its students, including those with language-based learning disabilities and other exceptionalities. What sets Valley Crossing apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention and tailored instruction that meets each child's individual needs. The school also prioritizes strong family partnerships, creating a collaborative atmosphere where parents are actively engaged in their children's education. Additionally, specialized facilities and community events foster a sense of belonging and encourage holistic development, making Valley Crossing Elementary a distinctive choice for families seeking an enriching educational experience for their children.