Schools
Specialized Schools
In Arizona, we are fortunate to have multiple school choices, including the option to attend a specialized school that is not part of the public school system. The schools featured below are for grades Pre-K through 12th grade. Some schools are for autistic students only and others offer programs to all disabilities. When considering a school, it’s important to contact the school to schedule a tour and discuss your child’s specific strengths and needs. Some things to consider asking:
What type of learner is this school best suited for? Some schools only cater to highly independent or gifted students.
Ask about tuition and private pay options, very few of these schools offer a free education.
If applicable to your situation, ask if the school provides transportation and after-school care.
What credentials and background checks do the staff have?
What are the staff trained to do in the event of an aggressive or self injurious behavior? Some schools have isolation rooms.
What is the ratio of students to staff?
How do they determine what classroom to place students? Some schools lump multiple grades together.
There are so many questions you can ask. Others include: Can they meet your child’s needs? Will they follow an IEP? What is the school safety plan? Will your child have a 1:1 paraprofessional? What is the schools communication method? Are outside therapy providers allowed on campus to provide services?
Whatever school path you determine is the best fit for your family, just know, that you can change schools if things don’t work out or if the school can no longer support your student’s needs.
Information about schools has been pulled from their website to give you a better understanding of what they offer.
ACCEL
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
We believe every student has the potential to thrive in our K-12 Education Program. We provide personalized academic, behavioral, therapeutic, and vocational programs designed to build a foundation for lifelong independence. In our highly structured, small-class environments, students aged 5 to 22 receive intensive, collaborative support that addresses their individual needs and challenges. We’re dedicated to fostering functional life skills and vocational training, empowering them to confidently navigate their community with dignity.
Contact information
Locations in Buckeye, Phoenix and Tempe
Phone: Multiple available, see website
Website: https://www.accel.org/accel-k-12-education
Achieve School for Autism
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
At Achieve School for Autism, we are dedicated to the holistic development of our students. We prioritize their health, safety, and well-being, implementing comprehensive measures to ensure a nurturing environment for both autistic students and staff.
Contact Information
Address: 6301 W. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85033
Phone: (480) 826-1463
Website: https://www.asautism.com
Arizona Autism Charter Schools, Inc.
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
We are Arizona’s first and only charter network specializing in serving students on the autism spectrum. Our schools are tuition-free and do not require any payments or scholarships. We serve grades K-12 and have several campuses available to meet families’ needs.
Contact Information
Locations in Mesa, Phoenix, Peoria and Tucson
Online campus available
Phone: Multiple available, see website
Website: https://autismcharter.org
Autism Academy for Education and Development
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
Welcome to the first and foremost fully accredited K-12+ autism-only academy in the state that serves all levels of the autism spectrum. Since our founding in 2013 , we have been dedicated to helping children with autism reach their full potential. Our unique, effective approach to education has made us the leading choice for families in Arizona.
Contact information
Locations in Gilbert, Glendale, Phoenix, Tempe and Tucson
Online campus available
Phone: (480) 485-0351
Website: https://aaed.org
Autism F.I.T.S.
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
We are a private school specializing in the educational development of children diagnosed with Autism. We believe that every child with Autism should have equal opportunities to grow and learn. We specialize in individualized instruction and take a functional approach to helping students meet their educational goals.
Contact information
Locations in Glendale, Mesa and Scottsdale
Phone: Multiple available, see website
Website: https://www.afitsacademy.com
Autism Journey Academy
Services: K to 8th Grade Education Program
At Autism Journey Academy, we are a dedicated community providing specialized education for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related developmental differences. We focus on developmental, academic, and behavioral growth during these critical school years. We combine evidence-based methods of instruction, including ABA methodologies, with a deep understanding of the special education needs of children with ASD.
As the only CMS-certified school, we follow The CMS Approach™, a unique Class Management System developed to equip educators with the tools to foster emotional and academic growth in students with autism.
Contact Information
Address: 1515 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ 85234
Phone: (480) 590-1970
Website: https://autism-journey-academy.com
AZ Aspire Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
AZ Aspire Academy is an Assist Enterprises School and Partner Campus of Ascent Academy. We provide a nurturing, compassionate, one-to-one education environment where our staff members give continual attention to each student's learning style and unique needs.
Contact Information
Locations in Gilbert, Litchfield Park, Scottsdale and Tempe
Phone: (480) 420-6630
Website: https://www.azaspireacademy.com
Banner Academy
Services: 4th Grade to 12th Grade Education Program
Banner Academy is a nationally accredited private school with a long history of providing education to children on the autism spectrum as well as those with emotional and learning disabilities. Our goal is to enhance academic skills, social skills and the love of learning in all of our students. Teachers identify the individual learning styles of each student and tailor a program specific to their academic, social and behavioral needs.
Contact information
Address: 1410 W. 10th Place, Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone: (480) 827-5348
Website: https://www.bannerhealth.com/locations/tempe/banner-academy
Beyond Autism
Services: Pre-K to 12th Grade Education Program
Our attitude here at Beyond Autism is simple. We are all here because we want to improve our students' lives and know that it takes a team approach. Although we all possess different skills and abilities, it’s our compassion and desire to enhance their lives that allows us to work synergistically.
Our qualified team members possess the technical competencies necessary to teach children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. In addition to extensive ABA training and experience, our team will receive quarterly in-services, including non-ABA based training. “Always a student” is our mantra and that applies to our team members too. We will strive to support the continued growth of our team through pertinent educational opportunities.
Contact Information
Address: 2301 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85015
Phone: (602) 541-9743
Website: https://www.beyond-autism.com
Breakthrough Academy
Services: K to 8th Grade Education Program
We employ science-based practices shown to be effective for ALL learners in the field of general and special education. Many of our learners have a diverse range of diagnoses affecting social development and learning efficiency, but we welcome any learner who prefers a small, individualized learning environment. We collaborate with families to understand and comprehensively support each learner’s unique needs (academic, social/emotional, and behavioral). The goal is to develop all skills that will lead to self-determination and independence. Our job is to give our learners the opportunity to meet their potential and contribute to society in their way!
Contact Information
Address: 3427 E. Bell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85032
Phone: (866) 620-9380
Website: https://www.btacademy.org
The Children’s Center
Services: Pre-K to 12th Grade Education Program
The Children’s Center for Neurodevelopmental Studies is a non-profit Private Day School in Arizona that's dedicated to exceptional students. We cater to students with developmental disabilities such as Autism and collaborate with thirteen school districts around the valley to provide a free suitable public education.
The Center’s unique comprehensive wrap-around approach offers families of children with autism and related disorders a variety of services year round. These services are individualized to meet the changing needs of children and families across the valley.
Contact Information
Address: 5430 W Glenn Drive, Glendale, AZ 85301
Phone: (623) 915-0345
Website: https://thechildrenscenteraz.org
Edkey Online Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
The Adaptable Student Development Program at Edkey Online Academy offers specialized support for students with autism. We tailor education to each child's unique interests, abilities, and personality, recognizing the need for personalized learning environments. The ASD Program collaborates with families to create customized educational plans that fit each child's needs, integrating parents as essential team members.
Contact Information
Address: 1460 S. Horne, Mesa, AZ 85204
Phone: (480) 461-3222
Website: https://edkeyonline.org
Empower Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
Empower Academy provides individualized education for students with autism, intellectual disabilities, emotional disabilities, and behavioral challenges in a supportive learning environment. As a smaller school, we are able to give students personal attention and create a calm environment where they feel comfortable and supported.
Contact Information
Address: 7641 E. Guadalupe Road, Mesa, AZ 85212
Phone: (480) 476-1171
Website: https://www.empoweracademyaz.com
Gateway Academy
Services: 6th to 12th Grade Education Program
Arizona's school for twice-exceptional students. Gateway is built, staffed, and focused on one specific community of learners, and that focus shapes everything from class size to the school day.
Contact Information
Address: 3939 E. Shea Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85028
Phone: (480) 998-1071
Website: https://gatewayacademy.us
Goodwin Learning Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
Unlocking education, one connection at a time. Specializing in 1:1 instruction for students with autism and other disabilities. ESA-approved with in-home, on-campus, and virtual learning options.
Contact Information
Address: 1307 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa, AZ 85204
Online campus available
Phone: (602) 539-0150
Website: https://goodwinlearningacademy.com
Integrative Learning Academy
Services: K to 8th Grade Education Program
Welcome to Christian education reimagined. We're a Christ-centered, K-8 private micro learning center fostering diverse thinking, inclusion, autonomy, and engagement.
Contact Information
Located in Peoria, Arizona
Website: https://integrativelearningacademy.com
The Jones-Gordon School
Services: 1st to 12th Grade Education Program
At The Jones-Gordon School (JGS), we offer a transformative educational experience for students with average-to-gifted cognition who have dyslexia and related learning differences. We lay a strong academic foundation in the early years and continue to challenge students with increasing depth and rigor as they move through Middle School and into our college-prep High School.
Contact Information
Address: 4800 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Phone: (480) 563-5588
Website: https://jonesgordon.org
KIDS PREP ACADEMY
Services: Pre-K Education Program
Offering Pre-K, Daycare, Preparatory, and Special Needs Education. Our learning center encourages respect, acceptance, and empathy by integrating students with and without special needs in our classrooms. We provide specialized care to each child to help them succeed. We are dedicated to ensuring every child is in a safe learning environment by training staff to work with parents, being honest, and offering constant communication.
Contact Information
Address: 1930 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix, AZ 85027
Phone: (623) 234-8912
Website: https://kpaaz.com
Lauren’s Institute for Education
Services: Pre-K to 12th Grade Education Program
We have multiple classrooms that support students with a wide array of cognitive, physical, and emotional needs. We believe in tailoring education to a student. We develop individualized learning plans and use research-supported curriculum. Many of our students receive on-site therapy and behavior support(ABA) and all our departments work together in a transdisciplinary approach. We also provide numerous enhancement programs and are fortunate to have a beautiful campus with many fun and engaging environments. And most of all we have caring teachers and staff.
Contact Information
Address: 1305 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ 85296
Phone: (480) 621-8361
Website: https://laurensinstitute.org
New Way Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
New Way Academy opened the door to a new way of learning for a growing population of students who were smart, motivated, curious and could benefit from a different approach to education. More than 50 years later, New Way is Arizona’s premier K-12 independent day school catering to children with specific learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and executive functioning difficulties.
Contact Information
Address: 5048 E. Oak Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Phone: (602) 389-8600
Website: https://newwayacademy.org
Pathways
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
Our mission is to educate children with learning differences, attention deficits, and developmental delays to achieve their greatest potential. We strive to instill confidence and empower students to succeed by developing an intrinsic desire to learn.
Contact Information
Locations in Gilbert, Mesa and Tucson
Phone: Multiple available, see website
Website: https://www.pathwaysschool.org
Polaris Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
A specialized school designed for students with autism, combining individualized academics with the support every child needs to thrive. At Polaris Academy, educators, therapists, and specialists work side-by-side throughout the school day. Instead of separating learning from support, we integrate them into one personalized experience.
Contact Information
Locations in Mesa
Phone: (480) 903-1701
Website: https://www.polarisacademy.org
PS Academy Arizona
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
A private school for ASD, ADHD and neurodiverse teens. Discover a supportive environment that fosters growth and success. Here we don’t do one-size-fits-all, basic and boring. We make learning that actually clicks. It’s all about finding what makes you look forward to getting up every day, from robotics and rock band to finding your crew and even a bestie or two. We're not just a school; we're a community where every student is encouraged to explore their passions and decide your own path.
Contact Information
Address: 5222 E. Baseline Road, Gilbert, AZ 85234
Phone: (480) 309-4792
Website: https://www.psacademyarizona.com
Red Oak Autism Academy
Services: Pre-K to 12th Grade Education Program
Red Oak Autism Academy is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for children on the spectrum. Our team of experienced and compassionate educators utilizes evidence-based teaching strategies to support the individual needs of each student. We believe in a holistic approach to education that focuses on developing social, emotional, and academic skills.
Contact Information
Address: 5050 E. University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85205
Phone: (480) 448-8906
Website: https://www.redoakautismacademy.com
ReThink Microschools
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
ReThink isn’t just a school — it’s a community designed for neurodivergent students. Safe. Small. Rigorous. ReThink creates an environment where your child is seen, supported, and inspired to thrive.
Contact Information
Address: 331 S. Cooper Road, Gilbert, AZ 85233
Phone: (480) 508-0781
Website: https://www.rethinkmicroschools.org
Rise Learning Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
RISE Learning Academy was founded for students with special needs who desire a school they can call home. Today many students with special needs struggle in the public education system because they feel overwhelmed or misunderstood. In an environment where everyone must conform to one style of learning, it can sometimes be hard to succeed. RISE strives to provide a safe and comfortable learning environment where students feel empowered to be themselves. Using an innovative approach that includes on-line curriculum, small groups, direct instruction and "real-life" activities students have the opportunity to learn in a "home-school" environment.
Contact Information
Address: 20913 E. Ocotillo Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Phone: (480) 569-8771
Website: https://riselearningacademy.org
SARRC Community School
Services: Pre-K Education Program
A program operated by the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center. Community School is a preschool that offers high-quality early childhood education for children without autism as well as ABA-based programming for children with autism — all in a blended classroom environment.
The Community School emphasizes kindergarten readiness by creating a rich social environment that promotes social, emotional and academic development for all. Additionally, this unique preschool program features a 4-to-1 student-teacher ratio, ensuring that each student has a detailed and individualized learning plan.
Contact Information
Locations in Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe
Phone: (602) 606-9806
Website: https://autismcenter.org/communityschool
Sierra Schools of Arizona
Services: Pre-K Education Program
Designed to nurture your student’s academic, social, and behavioral growth, Sierra Schools of Arizona provide individualized instruction in smaller, structured classrooms. Our private day school goes beyond what typical classrooms provide, offering an evidence-based approach including a comprehensive range of specialized services and a team of highly-trained educators to help students—and their families—shine.
Contact Information
Locations in Gilbert, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tucson
Phone: Multiple available, see website
Website: https://sesischools.com/register-arizona
Sophos Academy
Services: 1st to 6th Grade Education Program
Where personalized learning meets proven therapy. Sophos Academy is a microschool where support is not an add-on, it’s the foundation. Our mission is to create a school environment where therapy and education work together, every student is known individually, and families are supported every step of the way.
Contact Information
Address: 11250 N. Tatum Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85028
Phone: (480) 233-7311
Website: https://www.sophos-academy.com
Star Autism Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
At STAR Autism Academy, we believe in unlocking the potential of every child. Our innovative programs and dedicated team are here to support students with severe language, communication, learning, and behavioral needs on their educational journey.
Contact Information
Address: 5807 N. 43rd Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85019
Phone: (602) 548-3038
Website: https://www.starautismacademy.com
Story Autism Center
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
Story Autism Center believes that every child, regardless of ability, has the right to an individualized and effective education in a setting where their dignity is upheld, and their unique strengths and interests are encouraged. Through collaboration with families and a dedicated team of educators and clinicians, we help students develop academic abilities, communication skills, and life skills that support meaningful progress at school, at home, and in the community.
Contact Information
Address: 550 W. Warner Road, Chandler, AZ 85225
Phone: (480) 659-5456
Website: https://www.storyautism.com/k12-academy
Thriving Minds Academy
Services: K to 5th Grade Education Program
Welcome to Thriving Minds Academy, a specialized educational institution dedicated to empowering students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to thrive and succeed. With a deep understanding of the unique strengths and challenges of individuals on the spectrum, we provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment tailored to meet their specific needs.
Contact Information
Address: 850 S. Ironwood Drive, Apache Junction, AZ 85120
Phone: (480) 806-8000
Website: https://thrivingmindsaz.com
True North Academy
Services: 1st to 8th Grade Education Program
A non-profit microschool for neurodivergent learners. What makes us different? We start from a different premise: fit, not fixing. Your child doesn't need to be repaired. They need an environment that works with their brain, not against it. Whether your child is in elementary or middle school, True North provides a calm, strength-based environment tailored to their developmental stage.
Contact Information
Address: 9832 Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Phone: (480) 757-3527
Website: https://truenorthaz.org
The United School for Autism
Services: 1st to 12th Grade Education Program
We specialize in serving children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Our unique ABA-based programming challenges all students to reach their highest academic and social potentials. We work closely with parents and our specialized staff to determine the precise goals to be achieved in these two hemispheres.
Contact Information
Address: 9590 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Phone: (480) 860-1339
Website: https://www.theunitedschool.com
Victory Autism Academy
Services: K to 12th Grade Education Program
Victory Autism Academy (VAA) is a specialized school designed to meet the unique academic, behavioral, social, and functional needs of students on the autism spectrum. Through highly structured programs, individualized instruction, and a strong emphasis on consistency and data-driven decision making, we empower students to grow academically, socially, and independently.
At VAA, we believe every student can make meaningful progress when provided with the right supports, environment, and expectations.
Contact Information
Locations in Anthem, Goodyear, Phoenix, Sun City and Queen Creek
Phone: Multiple available, see website
Website: https://victoryautismacademy.com