Top 6 Best Special Needs Schools in Falls Church, Virginia (2026)

St. Joseph's Preschool is a traditional Catholic preschool in Falls Church, Virginia, serving children ages 2 to 5 years old. While primarily a mainstream preschool focusing on hands-on learning, character development, and school readiness, the preschool may accept some children with MILD developmental or learning needs on a case-by-case basis. The curriculum promotes growth across academic, physical, intellectual, and emotional domains with personalized attention in a nurturing environment. The school offers tuition assistance programs and maintains a low student-teacher ratio. IMPORTANT NOTE: This is NOT a specialized special education preschool. St. Joseph's is a regular preschool that may accommodate children with mild needs. Families with children who have moderate to severe disabilities, autism requiring specialized support, or significant behavioral challenges should contact the school directly to confirm if their child's needs can be met in a typical preschool setting.

Prepped Learning is a specialized educational therapy and diagnostic tutoring center dedicated to supporting children and adults facing learning challenges, particularly those with language-based learning disabilities and executive functioning difficulties. The core mission of Prepped Learning is to provide individualized, evidence-based interventions that address the unique academic needs of each student, ranging from early learners to adolescents. Through a combination of educational and therapeutic methodologies, the highly trained educational therapists evaluate and tailor their approach to enhance attention, motivation, and critical thinking skills while fostering a supportive learning environment. What sets Prepped Learning apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and customized instructional strategies. Additionally, strong partnerships with families ensure that progress is collaboratively monitored and celebrated. With a nurturing atmosphere that emphasizes not only academic success but also emotional well-being, Prepped Learning stands out as a beacon of hope for students navigating their educational journeys.

Acton Academy Falls Church is a private learner-driven microschool in Falls Church, VA serving children roughly ages 3 to 15. It combines Montessori (Primary studio, ages 3 to 6) and Acton methods (school-age studios) with self-directed learning, project-based work, Socratic discussions, and partial Spanish immersion. Classes are small (about a 7:1 student-teacher ratio).

The Montessori School of Northern Virginia (MSNV) - Valleybrook Campus is a traditional independent Montessori school in Falls Church serving children aged 2 to 15 across three campuses. While primarily a mainstream Montessori school following authentic Montessori methodology, MSNV may accept some students with MILD language-based learning disabilities or twice-exceptional learners who can thrive in a Montessori environment. The school emphasizes inspiring children to love learning through individualized Montessori principles, low student-teacher ratios, and strong family partnerships. Community events celebrate diversity and inclusion. IMPORTANT NOTE: This is NOT a specialized special education school. MSNV is a mainstream Montessori school that may accommodate some students with mild learning differences through its individualized Montessori approach. Families with children who have moderate to severe learning disabilities, autism requiring intensive support, or significant behavioral challenges should contact the school directly to confirm if a traditional Montessori environment is appropriate for their child.

Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic School, located in Falls Church, Virginia, is a fully accredited parish school that serves children from preschool through eighth grade. With a mission to educate the whole person, this inclusive learning environment is designed to meet the diverse needs of its students, including those with language-based learning disabilities and other unique challenges. The school offers a range of programs tailored to foster individual growth and development, supported by dedicated educators who emphasize personalized attention and care. Saint Anthony's stands out for its low student-teacher ratio, which ensures that each child receives the support they need to thrive. Additionally, the school promotes strong partnerships with families and hosts community events that enhance the educational experience. Recognized as a recipient of the 2025 Outstanding School Award from Porto Charities, Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic School exemplifies a nurturing atmosphere where every child can flourish.

Temple Rodef Shalom Early Childhood Center is a Reggio-inspired Reform Jewish preschool in Falls Church, Virginia, that has served young children for over 50 years. The center offers classes from birth (with a caregiver) through kindergarten, including 2-year-old, 3-year-old, Pre-K, and Junior K/Kindergarten programs, plus a summer session. Teacher-to-student ratios are small, typically about 3 teachers to 14 students. An occupational therapist and a speech therapist are available on staff when needed (additional fees apply), and weekly music, STEAM, and yoga enrich the curriculum. Guided by Reform Jewish values of kindness and community service, the center welcomes families of all backgrounds and faiths.