Top 10 Best Special Needs Schools in Springfield, Oregon (2026)

The Springfield Academy of Arts and Academics is a dedicated magnet high school that focuses on providing a non-traditional educational experience for students seeking a unique learning environment. Serving a diverse student body, the academy caters to individuals who may have language-based learning disabilities or those identified as twice-exceptional, fostering an inclusive atmosphere where every student can thrive. The school's core mission revolves around creating a collaborative learning environment that emphasizes project-based learning, integrated content, and the arts, encouraging students to engage deeply with their education. At Springfield Academy, the approach to education is holistic and personalized. By promoting acceptance, reflection, and perseverance, the school empowers students to self-actualize and prepare for future success. The integration of artistic expression within academic pursuits not only enhances creativity but also supports varied learning styles, ensuring that each student's needs are met. What sets Springfield Academy apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which allows for individualized attention and stronger family partnerships. This unique approach fosters a supportive community where families feel engaged and valued. Additionally, the academy's recognition through prestigious accreditation reflects its dedication to inclusive practices and high educational standards, making it a standout choice for parents seeking a nurturing and effective learning environment for their children.

• High school
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional

Springfield Public Schools is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment that serves every student, every day. With a mission centered on success and community engagement, the school system is committed to addressing the diverse needs of its students, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. The approach taken by Springfield Public Schools emphasizes tailored educational programs and therapeutic methodologies designed to empower each child. A strong focus on family partnerships ensures that parents and guardians are actively involved in their children's education, enhancing the overall learning experience. What truly sets Springfield Public Schools apart is its low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and support, as well as its specialized facilities that cater to various learning needs. The school also hosts unique community events that promote inclusivity and celebrate student achievements, making it a cornerstone of support for families navigating the complexities of special education.

• School
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Public school

Bridgeway House is a dedicated nonprofit organization established to provide vital treatments, developmental therapies, and enrichment courses for children with autism and related abilities, catering to families from all income levels. Founded in 2002 by a parent who recognized the need for more comprehensive resources, Bridgeway House has grown to serve a diverse group of children facing challenges associated with autism, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The school's core mission focuses on delivering effective programs that address both the educational and emotional needs of these children while offering essential support to their families. Through evidence-based methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), social skills training, academic support, and specialized summer camps, Bridgeway House fosters an environment where every child can thrive. Unique to Bridgeway House is its commitment to inclusivity; scholarships are available for all programs to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder access to quality services. With a strong emphasis on building relationships within the community and between families, the school stands out for its low student-teacher ratio and active family engagement initiatives, creating a nurturing space where children with autism can develop essential skills and confidence.

• School
• Autism
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional

Briggs is a Springfield Public Schools middle school for grades 6 to 8, with about 456 students. Literacy is our schoolwide priority: teachers work on reading and writing in every content area, from science to electives, so students can create, communicate and use knowledge. Advisory at Briggs runs through a House system. Each house keeps a group of students together for guidance on social, personal and academic growth throughout their time here. Our WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) program pairs 8th-grade mentors with incoming 6th graders to help them through the move to middle school and their first year. We use Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to teach and reinforce expected behavior across the building. Technology is built into daily instruction, with laptop computers available to all students. Breakfast is served each morning before classes, and families can register for district bus transportation.

• Public middle school
• Literacy across content areas
• PBIS
• Public school

Little Fish Preschool is dedicated to providing quality Christian education for preschool children aged 3 to 5 years. Located in Springfield, Oregon, this esteemed institution has garnered recognition as the in the area multiple times, reflecting its commitment to excellence. The school's core mission centers around preparing young learners for their educational journey ahead, with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning. Little Fish Preschool offers both in-person and online programs, ensuring accessibility and engagement for every child. The curriculum is designed to foster a love for learning through interactive activities and Bible-based teachings that instill foundational values. What sets Little Fish Preschool apart is its nurturing approach combined with a low student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention that caters to each child's unique needs. Additionally, the school emphasizes strong partnerships with families, creating a supportive community that enhances the educational experience and ensures that children are well-prepared for their transition into kindergarten.

• Preschool
• Private school

Maple Elementary is one of 12 elementary schools in Springfield Public Schools, serving about 250 students in kindergarten through 5th grade at 2109 J Street. We hold high expectations for our staff and our students. Students can eat breakfast at school before class, and district transportation is available. Springfield Public Schools partners with Willamalane to offer after-school care and no-school-day care at its elementary schools. Our Family Resource Center connects families with local support, and the Maple PTO meets during the school year.

• Public elementary school (K-5)
• Public school

McKenzie Montessori Institute in Springfield offers year-round Montessori education for children from 6 weeks to 8 years old. Children move through four classrooms: infants and wobblers from 6 weeks to 2 years, toddlers from 2 to 3, a primary and kindergarten class for ages 3 to 6, and a kindergarten and elementary class for ages 5 to 8. Teachers prepare each classroom every morning so children can work independently and move freely while building fine and large motor skills. Individual lessons cover math and language, and group lessons explore history, botany, zoology, geography, art and culture. Children help care for their classroom and learn to use their words to solve problems peacefully. Children can attend from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, apart from scheduled breaks and holidays through the year. We are also a new Preschool Promise site, with enrollment and eligibility handled through United Way of Lane County.

• Montessori school (infant to age 8)
• Montessori
• Infant and toddler care
• Mixed-age classrooms

Mt. Vernon Elementary School has deep roots in Springfield, and our campus is still lined with filbert trees as a link to that past. We are one of 12 elementary schools in Springfield Public Schools, serving about 396 students in kindergarten through fifth grade, and we are one of only a handful of uniform public schools in Oregon. Mt. Vernon is a Title I school, and those funds go to early intervention and extra reading and math support in the primary grades. Students with disabilities receive special education services in our building, English learners get English Language Development instruction, and qualifying students take part in the district Talented and Gifted program. Breakfast is served each morning before class. Every fifth grader can join the district's beginning orchestra on violin, viola, cello or bass, with no experience needed and affordable instrument rental. The ensembles rehearse twice a week and play the All Elementary Extravaganza concert in May. Willamalane Park and Recreation District runs after-school and no-school-day childcare on our campus, and families can register for district transportation.

• Public elementary school (K-5)
• Public school

Ridgeview Elementary School is one of 12 elementary schools in Springfield Public Schools, serving about 340 students in kindergarten through fifth grade on 66th Street. Many of our staff have worked in the building for ten to twenty years, and alongside academics we teach virtues and social and emotional skills students can use at school and beyond. Students with disabilities are served through the district's special education programs, which every Springfield elementary school offers. English Language Development gives students learning English structured instruction in listening, speaking, reading and writing, and the district Talented and Gifted program serves identified students. Fifth graders can join Elementary Strings, a beginning orchestra on violin, viola, cello or bass that meets twice a week and performs at the All Elementary Extravaganza Concert in May, with affordable instrument rental. Breakfast is served before classes begin, and families can use our library and Family Resource Center. Willamalane Park and Recreation District runs the Willamalane Kids Club on our campus for after school care and no-school days, and district transportation is available.

• Public elementary school
• Social-emotional learning
• Long-tenured staff
• Public school

Swift Start Preschool is a child care center on 2nd Street in Springfield for children from 8 weeks to 5 years old, open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We keep classes small and group children into three programs: Debut for babies from 8 weeks to 18 months, Little Loves for 18 to 36 months, and Evermores, our preschool and pre-kindergarten class for ages 3 to 5. Our approach is child-led. Teachers follow each child's interests and build learning through play and exploration, with plenty of outdoor time and big-body movement. We put real weight on emotional regulation, so children learn to understand their feelings, build empathy and handle friendships. Evermores focuses on the early academic, social and emotional skills children need for kindergarten. Full-time tuition is $2,000 per month for Debut, $1,800 for Little Loves and $1,650 for Evermores. We serve a morning and an afternoon snack each day, and families pack a lunch.

• Child care center and preschool
• Play-based learning
• Small class sizes
• Kindergarten readiness