Top 6 Best Special Needs Schools in Columbus, Mississippi (2026)

Compare 6 special needs schools in Columbus. Explore the ranked list and find a program that feels right for your child.

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Official-site photo for Annunciation Catholic School showing students or children in a school activity, classroom, or campus setting.

Annunciation Catholic School

We are a Catholic school in Columbus serving pre-K3 through eighth grade. Our Christ-centered program welcomes students from different faiths and backgrounds. Alongside core subjects, students learn art, Spanish, musical theatre, physical education and STREAM: science, technology, religion, engineering, art and math. Founded in 1963, Annunciation Catholic School combines classroom learning with family and community participation. Our STEM program has earned Cognia STEM certification.

Preschool
Pre-K3
Kindergarten
1

Columbus Middle School students receiving recognition during a school event.

Columbus Middle School

Columbus Middle School is a Columbus City Schools campus in Columbus, Mississippi. Its direction is Student-Centered; Excellence Driven. Students get classroom and schoolwide academic support aimed at middle school success, and the school promotes regular attendance and positive behavior. Counselors offer social-emotional learning, PBIS, and mental health support. Outside class, students can join athletics, drama, and band.

Middle school
Learning differences
Private school

Franklin Academy - Columbus

Our Columbus school combines academics with a Medical Sciences and Wellness Magnet focus. Students learn about healthy lifestyles, nutrition, physical fitness and medical science, including perspectives from healthcare professionals. Franklin Academy is part of Columbus Municipal School District and was established in 1821. We bring these wellness themes into learning while teaching respect, responsibility and participation in the school community.

Public school
Learning differences

Heritage Academy - Columbus

Heritage Academy describes itself as a private school in the Golden Triangle area and lists grades K4 through 6th grade. The school site also states a 100% college acceptance rate and notes scholarship totals for graduates. Families can use the Contact Us page on the school website for admissions questions.

Private educational institution

Stokes-Beard Elementary School

We are Columbus Municipal School District's Technology and Communication Magnet School. At Stokes-Beard Elementary, technology is part of instruction across the curriculum, alongside teaching based on state and national standards. Our school combines academic learning with attention to children's social and emotional well-being. Respect, responsibility, resourcefulness and responsiveness are shared values across our district.

Public elementary school

West Lowndes High School

West Lowndes High School is part of the Lowndes County School District in Mississippi and supports students through academics, counseling, and school activities. Families can expect a district focused on student growth and regular home-school communication. It is a practical local option for parents who want both classroom learning and student support resources.

High school
Learning differences
Twice-exceptional
Public school

Planning guides

Plan your next school conversation in Columbus

Use these guides before you contact programs, schedule tours, or ask your IEP team how a proposed setting will support your child's goals.

How to choose a special needs school

Prepare school-tour questions, compare supports and family communication, and record what each program can show you.

IEP process guide

Bring your IEP, progress evidence, and focused questions to conversations about evaluations, services, or placement.

Comparing school options in Columbus

Columbus Municipal School District identifies children with disabilities from birth and begins direct special education services when an eligible child turns 3. The district serves students with special needs ages 3 through 20, with special services programs at every school. Parents are members of the IEP team and must consent in writing before evaluation and placement.

Columbus Municipal's program follows IDEA, Mississippi State Board Policy 74.19, and local board policy. Services are based on each child's primary educational needs and disability category and delivered in the least restrictive environment. The district's Child Find work also reaches youth from other Mississippi districts who are held at the Lowndes County Juvenile Detention Center. Mississippi's Education Scholarship Account, run by the state Department of Education, lets parents of children with special needs leave public school and use funds for private school tuition or other allowable costs.

Local resources checked October 7, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Schools in Columbus

At what age can my child start services in Columbus Municipal?

The district identifies children from birth but begins direct services when an eligible child reaches age 3. Services follow the child's primary educational needs and disability category. If your child is younger than 3 and you have concerns, contact the district about Child Find now so identification can start early. Our early intervention guide covers the first years.

Do I have to agree before my child is evaluated?

Yes. Columbus Municipal says parents must consent in writing before their child is evaluated and before placement in special education if the child is found eligible. Parents are also members of the IEP team. Ask for copies of every notice and evaluation report. Our IEP guide explains your role on the team.

Which rules does Columbus Municipal follow for special education?

The district's program is governed by IDEA 2004, Mississippi State Board Policy 74.19 on policies and procedures for students with disabilities, and local school board policies. If you disagree with a decision, ask for the procedural safeguards notice, which explains your options. Use our IEP prep checklist before each meeting.

How does Mississippi's special needs ESA work?

The Equal Opportunity for Students with Special Needs Act of 2015 created Mississippi's Education Scholarship Account. The application asks for the child's most recent IEP active within the last three years and the eligible private school that accepted the child. Awards are limited, and current participants do not need to reapply each year.

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