Top 4 Best Special Needs Schools in Allentown, Pennsylvania (2026)

We teach preschoolers and students ages 5 to 21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our preschool builds early academic skills and offers speech and occupational therapy. In our school-age program, students learn academics and life skills through individual and small-group instruction and an IEP that families help develop. We provide speech therapy in-house and occupational and physical therapy through our local intermediate unit. Students can also take part in job training, adapted physical education, monthly Mass, and after-school dance.

• Special education school
• Intellectual disability
• Developmental disabilities
• Preschool

Ruby Bridges Early Childhood Center is part of the Allentown School District’s early-learning program. Our youngest learners build the early skills they need for school through classroom activities and family partnership. The center also offers a 21st Century after-school program with activities and resources for participating students.

• Preschool
• Public school

The Spanish Immersion Learning Center is dedicated to fostering the acquisition and development of the Spanish language among children and adults in a nurturing environment. With a mission to cultivate bilingual citizens of the world, the Center offers programs tailored for diverse learners, focusing on natural language acquisition in an immersive setting. Through total immersion, students engage in a curriculum where all communication and instruction occur in Spanish, guided by established methodologies that emphasize comprehensible input. This approach ensures that children not only learn the language but also connect with it meaningfully through play-based learning experiences that are socially and emotionally responsive. The curriculum encompasses a wide array of subjects including dance, music, theater, literacy, math, art, science, technology, and literature, allowing students to explore multiple disciplines simultaneously. What sets the Spanish Immersion Learning Center apart is its commitment to low student-teacher ratios and strong family partnerships that enrich the educational experience. By creating an inclusive atmosphere where students actively participate in shaping their learning journey, the Center fosters confidence and self-esteem while preparing them to thrive as global citizens.

• Preschool
• Private school

The Baum School of Art is a vibrant community institution dedicated to fostering artistic expression and personal growth among individuals of all ages, including children, adults, and those aspiring to pursue college-level studies in the visual arts. With a mission centered on helping students realize their fullest potential, the school offers a range of programs tailored to diverse needs. Among its offerings are engaging Summer Art Camps for youth aged 5 to 17, where participants can explore various artistic disciplines and even delve into fashion design through The Fashion Academy. The school's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its supportive environment that encourages creativity for everyone, regardless of their prior experience with art. Distinctively, The Baum School of Art prides itself on maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio, which fosters personalized attention and strong mentorship relationships. Additionally, the school actively engages families in the learning process and is currently undergoing renovations and expansions in anticipation of its centennial celebration in 2026. This forward-thinking approach not only enhances its facilities but also enriches the overall educational experience for students and the community alike.

• Art school
• Private school