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Best Special Needs Schools in Charleston, South Carolina (2026)

Compare 3 special needs schools in Charleston. Explore the ranked list and find a program that feels right for your child.

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School listings in Charleston

Photo from Coastal Blooms Learning Academy
1

Coastal Blooms Learning Academy

Listed
Charleston, SC

Coastal Blooms Learning Academy is a nurturing childcare center located in Charleston, SC, dedicated to fostering the growth and development of children with diverse needs, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The academy's core mission is to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Through a blend of innovative educational programs and therapeutic methodologies, Coastal Blooms emphasizes individualized learning experiences tailored to each child's unique strengths and challenges. With a low student-teacher ratio, the academy ensures that every child receives personalized attention, fostering strong connections between educators and families. Unique community events further enrich the learning experience, creating a sense of belonging and collaboration among families. Coastal Blooms Learning Academy stands out for its commitment to holistic development, making it an exceptional choice for parents seeking specialized support for their children.

  • Preschool
  • Private school
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Student working with a cause-and-effect toy with staff support at PACE.
2

PACE Charter School

Listed
Charleston, SC

Pattison's Academy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, year-round educational and therapeutic programs for children with disabilities and their families. The academy's core mission is to discover each child's unique abilities and share joy through a collaborative model that integrates therapy and education, creating a vibrant and individualized learning environment. Key offerings at Pattison's Academy include a range of integrative programs designed to support diverse needs. These programs encompass Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups. The academy employs evidence-based methodologies tailored to each child's specific requirements, ensuring that every student receives the support necessary for their growth and development. What sets Pattison's Academy apart is its commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment. With a low student-teacher ratio, the academy ensures personalized attention for each child. The campus is equipped with specialized technology and resources to enhance learning experiences. Additionally, Pattison's Academy offers vocational training and summer programs, promoting community integration and preparing students for future success.

  • Special education school
  • disabilities
  • Private school
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3

The Promise School

Listed
Charleston, SCGrades K-8

The Promise School is a dedicated private institution that focuses on empowering students with language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Serving children from kindergarten through middle school (grades K-7), the school embraces a mission to inspire bright and capable learners by providing a nurturing environment where their unique gifts can flourish. The Promise School employs innovative teaching methods grounded in the Orton-Gillingham Approach, ensuring that each student receives tailored support to enhance their academic skills while fostering personal growth and self-confidence. What sets The Promise School apart is its unwavering commitment to transparency and collaboration with families, recognizing the vital role that parents and guardians play in their children's educational journey. The school maintains a low student-teacher ratio, allowing for individualized attention and fostering strong relationships between educators and students. Additionally, The Promise School is on the path to achieving full O-G Academy Accreditation, further validating its dedication to high educational standards. Through community support and philanthropy, the school aims to create lasting impacts on its students' futures, helping them learn without limits and embrace their potential fully.

  • School center
  • dyscalculia
  • dysgraphia
  • Dyslexia
View details

Nearby school options

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Planning guides

Plan your next school conversation in Charleston

Use these guides before you contact programs, schedule tours, or ask your IEP team how a proposed setting will support your child's goals.

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Comparing school options in Charleston

Charleston County School District runs a Child Find Office at 721 Wappoo Road that screens children ages 3 through 5 who live in Charleston County, at no charge. Parents request an appointment through an online form. For special education questions about enrolled students, the district's Department of Exceptional Children answers at 843-937-6500.

The route depends on your child's situation. Children leaving BabyNet do not need a screening: the early interventionist refers them and invites the district to a transition meeting. Private school and homeschooled students in grades K-12 use a separate screening request form. Enrolled students start with their teacher, counselor or school psychologist, and the school uses MTSS to problem-solve. Students transferring in with an IEP skip screening; note the IEP on the registration form.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Schools in Charleston

How do I get a Charleston preschooler screened?
Charleston County School District's Child Find Office at 721 Wappoo Road screens children ages 3 through 5 who live in Charleston County, at no charge. Request an appointment with the district's Preschool Child Find screening form. If results suggest a disability, the team schedules an evaluation planning meeting with you. Email childfind@charleston.k12.sc.us with questions.
My child is in BabyNet. What happens at age 3?
Children moving from BabyNet do not go through the Child Find screening. If your child may need a Part B evaluation, the early interventionist refers your child to the district and invites a district representative to a transition meeting held ahead of the third birthday. Our early intervention guide explains the transition.
Can CCSD evaluate a private school or homeschooled child?
Yes, for K-12 children educated in Charleston County. Parents use the Private School and Homeschool Child Find request form. If eligible, the district develops an Individualized Service Plan through the consultation process, or an IEP if you are considering public school enrollment. If your child attends a private school outside the county, contact that county's Child Find office.
We are moving to Charleston with an IEP. Do we start over?
No screening is needed. Charleston County School District asks families to include the IEP details on the registration form and tell office staff that your child needs services. For questions about special education services in district schools, call 843-937-6500. Bring the current IEP and latest evaluation. Our IEP prep checklist helps organize them.

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