Top 4 Best Special Needs Schools in Southern Pines, North Carolina (2026)

Episcopal Day School (EDS) is an independent, co-educational institution located in Southern Pines, North Carolina, dedicated to fostering academic excellence and character development for students from early preschool through 5th grade. The school operates in partnership with Longleaf Academy, specifically designed to support children with language-based learning differences. EDS's mission centers on providing a strong foundation for lifelong learning by nurturing the mind, body, and spirit within a supportive community that honors Episcopal traditions. With a commitment to inclusivity, the school prides itself on being a non-profit organization that does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability. Unique features of Episcopal Day School include its low student-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention and strong family partnerships that enhance the educational experience. Additionally, the school hosts community events like the Gator Gala and curriculum nights that foster engagement among families and celebrate the achievements of its students.

• Private educational institution

Longleaf Academy is a dedicated non-profit day school established in 2009, specifically designed to support children with language-based learning differences, including dyslexia. The school's core mission is to empower these students, enabling them to become self-sufficient and intrinsic learners who can achieve academic success. By collaborating with local private schools since 2016, Longleaf Academy ensures that children receive quality instruction tailored to their unique needs. The educational philosophy emphasizes that academic success is a shared responsibility between students and teachers, advocating for a multi-sensory, research-based curriculum that caters to individual learning styles. Utilizing the renowned Orton-Gillingham approach, Longleaf Academy focuses on creating new neurological pathways through engaging visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities in reading, writing, spelling, and math. With a low student-teacher ratio of 4:1, each child's present level of performance is prioritized to provide personalized instruction that fosters their growth. What sets Longleaf Academy apart is not only its commitment to individualized education but also its strong partnerships with families and community outreach initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of dyslexia. This holistic approach ensures that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically and develop into lifelong learners.

• Educational institution
• Dyslexia
• Learning differences
• Private school

Moore Montessori is a free public charter school dedicated to providing a nurturing and high-quality education for a diverse community of students from kindergarten through sixth grade. Embracing the Montessori method, the school focuses on educating the whole child through hands-on learning experiences, collaborative projects, and self-directed activities. This individualized approach ensures that each student's unique strengths and needs are recognized and supported, fostering critical thinking, executive function, and social-emotional skills essential for success in higher education and beyond. The passionate staff at Moore Montessori comprises experienced educators who are deeply committed to forming strong partnerships with families, ensuring that every child feels valued and understood. What sets Moore Montessori apart is its commitment to inclusivity, offering a tailored curriculum within a supportive environment characterized by low student-teacher ratios and an emphasis on community engagement. This holistic educational experience empowers students to thrive both academically and personally, making Moore Montessori a distinctive choice for families seeking an enriching educational journey.

• Montessori school
• Montessori
• Public school

At Southern Pines Elementary, we work closely with families and teachers to support each child’s academic growth. Our focus is on strong relationships, learning needs and opportunities for students to take on leadership at school and in the community. Moore County Schools provides districtwide arts, advanced studies and Exceptional Children services.

• Elementary school
• Private school