Best Special Needs Schools in Sammamish, Washington (2026)

The Options Program at Eastside Catholic School in Sammamish, Washington, is a nationally recognized inclusive special education program for high school students in grades 9 through 12 diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As the premier Catholic high school program of its kind in the Pacific Northwest offering a certificate of completion, Options provides a balanced blend of individualized special education coursework, life-skills training, and full inclusion in general education electives and school activities. Peer mentors work alongside Options students, fostering genuine community integration, social development, and preparation for adulthood.

• private
• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• Down syndrome
• Autism

Pacific Learning Academy is a Washington State Approved Private School serving students in grades 6-12 through individually-designed, one-on-one academics and tutoring. Founded by Kirsten O’Malley, the Academy provides a personalized learning environment for students who may struggle in traditional classrooms due to anxiety, learning differences, or rigid timelines. Instruction is delivered by fully-employed professional instructors who undergo year-round training in learning differences and teaching techniques. The Academy offers a wide range of accredited middle and high school courses, including core curriculum, honors options, and customized electives. Their programs are designed to meet students where they are, whether they need credit recovery, grade improvement, or advanced placement support. As a Cognia-accredited institution with NCAA-approved coursework, the Academy ensures that students remain on pace with their peers and are well-prepared for college transitions. Families at Pacific Learning Academy benefit from flexible instruction locations, including the school’s Sammamish office, the student’s home, local libraries, or online platforms. The Academy emphasizes a mastery-based approach, matching each student with a tutor based on expertise and rapport. With a commitment to academic excellence and student well-confidence, the Academy has served over 1,700 local students, helping them reach their educational goals in a supportive, low-stress setting.

• Private special education school / one-to-one academy
• Learning differences
• Classroom anxiety
• IEPs