Best Special Needs Schools in Portsmouth, Ohio (2026)

Portsmouth STEM Academy opened in 2014 and has grown from a small group of students and educators into a K-12 school community serving families across Portsmouth and the surrounding region. We are a private, chartered nonpublic school that meets the Operating Standards for Ohio Schools, and every teacher is licensed by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Science, technology, engineering and math are central to how we teach, with hands-on projects and collaboration, but students also take language arts, social studies, fine arts, theatre and physical education. Classrooms run at no more than 16 students per teacher, instruction responds to each student's level, and NWEA MAP assessments help teachers track growth. Intervention specialists and instructional aides are part of our staff, and high school students can earn college credit through College Credit Plus. Families can use Ohio EdChoice scholarships, which may cover full tuition, and we accept the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship for students with an IEP. Tuition includes school supplies, a personal laptop or iPad, event transportation, and early drop-off and after-school care. Local districts provide busing for students within 30 minutes.

• Private chartered nonpublic school (K-12)
• STEM education
• Small class sizes
• Hands-on learning

Scioto County Developmental Disabilities (SCDD) stands as a beacon of support for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, serving a wide age range from birth to 21 years and beyond. The school is dedicated to empowering students with various needs, including language-based learning disabilities and those who are twice-exceptional. SCDD's core mission revolves around fostering meaningful lives through a person-centered approach, ensuring that each student receives the tailored support they need to thrive. Key programs incorporate therapeutic methodologies designed to enhance learning and social skills, while also addressing individual challenges. With a strong emphasis on low student-teacher ratios, SCDD ensures personalized attention that promotes academic and personal growth. Unique community events and strong family partnerships further distinguish the school, creating an inclusive environment where families feel supported and engaged. The commitment of staff members, characterized by professionalism and genuine care, reinforces SCDD's reputation as a leading resource in the community for those navigating the complexities of developmental disabilities.

• School
• developmental disabilities
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional