Top 5 Best Special Needs Schools in Forney, Texas (2026)

Jim and Connie Dunkin founded Dunkin Academy Preschools in 1982, and their family still runs the company, now with two schools in Kaufman County. Our Forney school on Pinson Road starts with 6-week-old infants and goes up to Pre-K, plus elementary students before and after school. We teach from our own curriculum, written and refined by certified Texas teachers rather than bought as a boxed kit and aligned with the Texas Prekindergarten Guidelines. Kindergarten readiness is assessed several times a year. Toddlers from 18 months to 3 years follow our Early Foundations units with structured play twice a day. Pre-K 3, 4 and 5 classes work on phonics, letter sounds, early writing and hands-on math, and every Pre-K student has weekly Spanish, art, music and creative drama. Each day includes a Bible story and prayer, and the building is nut-free. For kindergarten through 6th grade, we serve breakfast, drive children to and from local Forney elementary schools such as Blackburn, Criswell and Crosby, and offer homework help and tutoring in the afternoon. Summer brings a themed day camp with field trips.

• Christian preschool and child care center
• Kindergarten readiness
• Play-based learning
• Private school

Johnson Elementary School is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for children with diverse learning needs, specifically serving students aged 5 to 11 who may face challenges such as language-based learning disabilities or are classified as twice-exceptional. The school's core mission revolves around providing personalized educational experiences that empower each child to thrive academically and socially. Johnson Elementary employs a variety of innovative programs and therapeutic methodologies, including individualized instruction, speech and language therapy, and social skills development, all tailored to meet the unique requirements of its students. What sets Johnson Elementary apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which allows for more individualized attention and support. Additionally, the school values strong partnerships with families, fostering an open line of communication that is essential for collaborative success. With specialized facilities designed to accommodate various learning styles and community events that promote inclusivity and engagement, Johnson Elementary School stands out as a beacon of hope and support for families navigating the complexities of special education.

• Elementary school
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Private school

Lewis Elementary in Forney carries the name of John Madison Lewis, who helped build the first recorded schools in Forney beginning in 1875 and whose family later donated land for the district's first Lewis High School. Today our campus serves pre-kindergarten through fourth grade in Forney ISD, and our students are the Lewis Leopards. Every kindergarten through fourth grade student takes part in Engage Opportunities, spending 60 minutes each school day in a chosen pathway. Students pick Soccer, Health Science and Biomedical, or Music Production. Soccer builds teamwork on the field, Health Science and Biomedical explores healthcare through hands-on STEM learning, and Music Production lets students create with music technology. Alongside these pathways, we focus on strong academic foundations and character.

• Public elementary school (PreK-4)
• Interest-based pathways
• STEM
• Public school

Rhea Intermediate carries the name of Nell Rhea, who graduated as valedictorian of Forney High School in 1902 and went on to teach in Forney for about 46 years, most of them as a second grade teacher, before retiring in 1955. Our campus on Monitor Boulevard serves grades 5 and 6 for Forney ISD. Our Lions spend these two years getting ready for middle school, with a focus on academic achievement, character development and community connection. Students use our school library, book fairs come to campus during the year, district buses serve our families, and parents can volunteer through the Forney ISD volunteer program.

• Public intermediate school (grades 5 to 6)
• Public school

Themer Middle School serves seventh and eighth graders in Forney ISD. The Titans move through these two grades with opportunities in STEM, fine arts, athletics and student leadership. Volleyball and football appear on the campus activity calendar, and students can also explore the National Junior Honor Society and library resources. The school builds its approach around curiosity, growth and the chance to develop confidence and character before high school. Eighth graders begin that transition with a ninth-grade course selection sheet and a parent meeting. Families can review classes of interest with their student and connect with high-school counselors as they plan the next step. Themer takes its name from Don and Vivian Themer, longtime Forney educators. Don taught subjects from English and social studies to athletics; Vivian worked in home economics, special education and school leadership and supported student mentoring and activities. Their shared history gives the campus a particular connection to the Forney community. The school is at 12503 FM 1641, Forney, TX 75126.

• Middle school
• Public school