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Top 4 Best Special Needs Schools in Florence, South Carolina (2026)

Compare 4 special needs schools in Florence. Explore the ranked list and find a program that feels right for your child.

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School listings in Florence

Photo from Florence County Disabilities
2

Florence County Disabilities

Listed
Florence, SC

The Florence County Disabilities and Special Needs Board (FCDSNB) is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities, Autism, and head and spinal cord injuries across Florence County. Serving a diverse population, FCDSNB focuses on empowering individuals from various communities, including Florence, Lake City, Timmonsville, Johnsonville, Olanta, and Pamplico. The organization’s mission emphasizes promoting opportunities that expand abilities and support informed choices for its clients. Through a comprehensive range of services—including day support programs, employment opportunities, residential services, leisure activities, and family support—FCDSNB fosters an inclusive environment where each individual's potential can be realized. What sets FCDSNB apart is its commitment to community integration and strong family partnerships, ensuring that all services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual while encouraging active participation in their communities.

  • Non-profit organization
  • Autism
  • Head and spinal cord injuries
  • Intellectual disability
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4

South Florence High School

Listed
Florence, SC

South Florence High School stands as a beacon of excellence in education, dedicated to nurturing the potential of all students, including those with diverse learning needs. Serving a wide age range, the school is committed to creating an inclusive environment that supports students with various diagnoses, such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. The school's core mission revolves around fostering academic achievement and personal growth through tailored educational programs and therapeutic methodologies that address each student's unique challenges. At South Florence High School, a holistic approach to education is embraced, integrating innovative teaching strategies and specialized support services. The curriculum is designed to engage students actively, ensuring that they not only meet academic standards but also develop essential life skills. The school emphasizes strong family partnerships, recognizing that collaboration between educators and families is vital for student success. This commitment is reflected in various community events and programs that invite parental involvement and foster a supportive network. What sets South Florence High School apart is its low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and customized learning experiences. The school boasts specialized facilities that cater to the diverse needs of its students, creating an environment where every learner can thrive. With a focus on both academic and artistic excellence, South Florence High School has garnered recognition, including being named a finalist for Palmetto's Finest Award. This dedication to fostering a nurturing and inclusive educational atmosphere makes South Florence High School a unique choice for families seeking a supportive learning environment for their children.

  • High school
  • Public school
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Planning guides

Plan your next school conversation in Florence

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 Florence

Florence 1 Schools holds Child Find developmental screening clinics once a month for children ages 3 to 5 whose guardians suspect a disability. A nurse, preschool teacher, school psychologist, and speech-language pathologist run them at Woods Road Child Development Center. To book, call 843-673-1161 or complete the district's online Child Find screening intake form.

Florence 1 Child Find covers children ages 3 to 21 who live in the district and are not already enrolled in its schools, including private school and homeschool students. Screenings are by appointment only, and school-age children are screened at the McClenaghan Administrative Annex. After the appointment, evaluators give next steps, which may be recommendations or a follow-up visit for further evaluation. The district also has a parent liaison for its Programs for Exceptional Children.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Schools in Florence

Where are Florence 1 Child Find screenings held?
Preschool-age children are screened at Woods Road Child Development Center, 1400 Woods Road. School-age children not enrolled in Florence 1 are screened at the McClenaghan Administrative Annex. All screenings are by appointment, and the district notes dates can shift with school closures or calendar changes. Call 843-673-1161 to schedule.
What does the preschool screening look at?
The team considers physical, cognitive, communication, social or emotional, and adaptive behavior development, following the Child Identification Standards set by the South Carolina Department of Education. A screening shows whether a fuller evaluation is warranted. It is not the eligibility decision. Bring medical reports and any notes from your child's preschool or caregiver.
My child already attends a Florence 1 school. Do I use Child Find?
The Child Find intake line is for preschool children and school-age children who are not enrolled in Florence 1. If your child is already enrolled, raise the concern with the school and ask in writing for a special education evaluation. Our evaluation request guide helps you word the letter. Keep a dated copy.
Who helps Florence parents understand IEPs and related services?
Florence 1 has a parent liaison for its Programs for Exceptional Children. The liaison connects families with outside resources and offers parent training, and the district posts guides on IEP components, related services such as speech, occupational, and physical therapy, and assistive technology. Pair those with our IEP guide before your first meeting.

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