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Top 7 Best Special Needs Schools in Forney, Texas (2026)

Compare 7 special needs schools in Forney. Explore the ranked list and find a program that feels right for your child.

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1

Criswell Elementary School

Elementary school

Listed

Forney, TX

Criswell Elementary School is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment for students with diverse learning needs, specifically designed for children facing challenges such as language-based learning disabilities and those who are twice-exceptional. The school's core mission revolves around providing tailored educational experiences that empower each child to thrive academically and socially. With a focus on individualized instruction, Criswell employs innovative teaching methodologies and therapeutic programs that cater to the unique strengths and challenges of its students. The school prides itself on maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and strong relationships between educators and families. Additionally, Criswell emphasizes the importance of community partnerships, enhancing the educational experience through collaborative events that involve parents and guardians. This commitment to creating a supportive network not only enriches the learning environment but also fosters a sense of belonging for every child at Criswell Elementary.

Support: language-based learning disabilities, Twice-exceptional, Private

2

Dunkin Academy Preschool

Preschool

Listed

Forney, TX • Ages 2-5

Dunkin Academy, with two locations in Kaufman County, Texas, has established itself as a leading preschool program dedicated to fostering kindergarten readiness for nearly forty years. Catering to young learners from infancy through prekindergarten, Dunkin Academy focuses on children with diverse needs, ensuring that each student receives personalized attention and support. The curriculum is meticulously aligned with the Texas PreKindergarten Guidelines, allowing for multiple assessments throughout the year to track progress and set educational goals. In addition to its comprehensive preschool offerings, Dunkin Academy provides infant care, an engaging after-school program for elementary students, and vibrant themed summer camps that enhance learning through play. What truly sets Dunkin Academy apart is its commitment to creating a nurturing environment characterized by low student-teacher ratios and strong partnerships with families, ensuring that every child thrives both academically and socially.

Support: Private

3

Johnson Elementary School

Elementary school

Listed

Forney, TX • Elementary (K-5)

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.

Support: language-based learning disabilities, twice-exceptional, Private

4

Lewis Elementary School

Elementary school

Listed

Forney, TX • Elementary (K-5)

Lewis Elementary School is dedicated to nurturing the unique potential of students with diverse learning needs, particularly those aged 5 to 12 who may face challenges such as language-based learning disabilities or who are twice-exceptional. The school's core mission revolves around creating an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers each child to thrive academically and socially. With a focus on individualized learning plans, Lewis Elementary employs a range of innovative therapeutic methodologies designed to cater to the specific needs of its students, ensuring that every child receives personalized attention and support. What sets Lewis Elementary apart is its low student-teacher ratio, which fosters meaningful relationships and enhances educational outcomes. Additionally, the school emphasizes strong partnerships with families, recognizing that collaboration is key to student success. Unique community events further enrich the educational experience, creating a vibrant atmosphere where children can learn, grow, and connect with their peers and families.

Support: language-based learning disabilities, twice-exceptional, Private

5

Rhea Intermediate

Middle school

Listed

Forney, TX

Rhea Intermediate School is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive educational environment for students with diverse learning needs, specifically catering to children who experience language-based learning disabilities and those who are twice-exceptional. The school's core mission revolves around fostering academic growth and personal development through tailored programs that emphasize individualized learning strategies and therapeutic methodologies. With a strong commitment to collaboration, Rhea Intermediate prioritizes building meaningful partnerships with families to ensure that each child's unique strengths and challenges are addressed. The school stands out due to its low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and support, as well as specialized facilities designed to enhance the learning experience. Additionally, Rhea Intermediate hosts community events that promote engagement and understanding among students, families, and staff, creating a holistic approach to education that is both empowering and transformative.

Support: language-based learning disabilities, Twice-exceptional, Private

6

Smith Intermediate School - Forney

Middle school

Listed

Forney, TX • Elementary (K-5)

Smith Intermediate School is dedicated to providing an inclusive and nurturing environment for students with diverse learning needs, particularly those aged 8 to 12 who may have language-based learning disabilities or are twice-exceptional. The school's core mission revolves around fostering academic growth and personal development through tailored educational programs and therapeutic methodologies that address the unique challenges faced by each student. With a strong emphasis on individualized instruction, Smith Intermediate employs a low student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention and support. This approach is complemented by strong partnerships with families, ensuring that parents and guardians are actively involved in their child's educational journey. The school also features specialized facilities designed to enhance learning experiences, alongside community events that promote social interaction and collaboration among students, families, and staff. What sets Smith Intermediate apart is its unwavering commitment to creating a holistic educational experience that not only prioritizes academic achievement but also nurtures the emotional and social well-being of every child.

Support: language-based learning disabilities, twice-exceptional, Private

7

Themer Middle School

Middle school

Listed

Forney, TX • Ages 6-8

Themer Middle School is dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for students with diverse learning needs, particularly those facing challenges such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptionalities. With a mission centered on fostering academic growth and personal development, the school serves students in the middle school age range, ensuring that each child receives tailored support to thrive. The educational approach at Themer incorporates specialized programs and therapeutic methodologies designed to address individual learning styles and promote engagement. A hallmark of the school's philosophy is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and meaningful relationships between educators and students. This emphasis on strong family partnerships further enhances the educational experience, creating a collaborative atmosphere that empowers both students and their families. Unique community events foster social connections and build a sense of belonging, making Themer Middle School not just an educational institution but a vibrant community where every child can flourish.

Support: language-based learning disabilities, twice-exceptional, Private

Planning guides

Plan your next school conversation in Forney

Use these guides before you contact programs, schedule tours, or ask your IEP team about placement and funding.

Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Schools in Forney

How does Forney's rapid growth affect special education services?
Forney ISD has grown from a small-town district into one of the faster-expanding districts east of Dallas, and growth of that speed puts pressure on specialized staffing and classroom space. Ask directly how many students are served in each specialized setting, whether the program your child needs exists on the zoned campus or requires busing, and what the district's plan is if a new campus opens and boundaries shift mid-placement.
How do I request a special education evaluation in Forney?
Send a written request to your campus principal and the Forney ISD special education office describing specific concerns across academics, behavior, communication, and health. The Texas evaluation timeline begins when you sign consent, so keep a dated copy of what you sent. For parent-facing guidance on each step, see SPEDTex information for families.
Can Education Freedom Accounts help Forney families access private programs?
Awarded accounts may cover tuition and approved expenses at participating schools, though Kaufman County has fewer participating private special education campuses than Dallas proper. Check current award rules and the participating school list on Texas Education Freedom Accounts before assuming an account converts into a nearby placement.
What should families weigh about commuting toward Dallas for services?
Many Forney families drive west for pediatric specialists, evaluations, and clinic-based therapy. Factor that drive into any placement decision, because a program that looks good on paper can fail if your child arrives dysregulated after an hour in traffic. Ask whether related services can be delivered on campus so you are not stacking a school day and a commute onto the same afternoon.
How do boundary changes affect an existing IEP?
When a fast-growing district opens campuses and rezones, students can be reassigned. An IEP follows the child within the district, but the specific staff, classroom, and peer group may not. Ask how the district handles transition ARDs after rezoning and request that any successful supports be written specifically enough to carry over to a new campus.

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