Best Special Needs Schools in Flushing, New York (2026)

The Lowell School, established in 1968, is a New York State Regents approved and accredited not-for-profit coeducational special education day school dedicated to providing a structured and nurturing learning environment for children from elementary through high school. The school's core mission is to bridge the gap between each child's potential and their everyday performance, focusing on fostering self-respect, responsibility, and character development. Catering to students with diverse needs, including language-based learning disabilities and those who are twice-exceptional, Lowell emphasizes a multi-sensory approach to education, ensuring that each child receives the tailored support necessary for academic and social growth. What sets The Lowell School apart is its commitment to creating a culture of acceptance, tolerance, and community involvement. With a low student-teacher ratio, educators can closely monitor individual progress and adapt learning strategies to meet specific needs, allowing for personalized goal achievement. The school also encourages students to engage in community service and support various causes, reinforcing the values of empathy and social responsibility. This holistic approach, combined with specialized facilities and a strong partnership with families, makes The Lowell School a unique and empowering environment for students to thrive.

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

Founded in 1968, The Summit School in Flushing, Queens, is a New York State Education Department (NYSED) approved Chapter 853 nonpublic special education school. Summit provides a comprehensive, highly supportive educational program for children in Grades K through 12 who experience learning disabilities, speech and language impairments, executive functioning deficits, or mild social-emotional challenges. The school's multidisciplinary team of certified special education teachers, licensed speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, clinical psychologists, and social workers collaborates to create an individualized academic and therapeutic plan for every student. Classrooms maintain low student-to-staff ratios (such as 10:1:1 or 12:1:1), fostering individualized instruction and continuous academic growth. Summit features specialized computer labs, expressive arts studios, adaptive physical education facilities, and transition guidance services designed to prepare students for higher education, vocational training, and independent living.

• School
• emotional challenges
• Learning differences
• Speech therapy