Best Special Needs Schools in Waco, Texas (2026)

Dyslexia Training and Evaluation Center of Waco provides dyslexia therapy, educational evaluation, and therapist training from its Lake Air Drive location in Waco. Jennifer Halvorsen, M.Ed., is a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, a Certified Academic Language Therapist and Qualified Instructor, and a certified Educational Diagnostician who has worked in dyslexia and special education since 2001. Instruction uses curricula written at the Luke Waites Center for Dyslexia and Learning Disorders at Scottish Rite for Children: Take Flight for comprehensive intervention, BUILD for K-1 students at risk, Turbo Start for students identified off cycle, Rite Flight for reading fluency and comprehension, and Write Idea for dysgraphia and written expression. Groups are capped at six students, and DTEC also runs Certified Academic Language Therapist training cohorts for teachers.

Midway Independent School District (ISD) stands as a beacon of educational excellence in Central Texas, dedicated to serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade, including those with special needs such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. The district's core mission is to cultivate a learner-centered environment that not only engages but also challenges every student to reach their full potential. Midway ISD employs innovative programs and therapeutic methodologies designed to support diverse learning styles, ensuring that all students have access to an enriching educational experience. What sets Midway ISD apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, fostering strong partnerships with families, and providing specialized facilities tailored to meet the unique needs of its students. The district is also recognized for its award-winning fine arts programs and distinctive career and technical education offerings, all supported by advanced technology and a robust professional development partnership with Baylor University. These elements contribute to an inclusive community where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, making Midway ISD a highly sought-after choice for families in McLennan County.