Raising a child with special needs can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, from finding the right school to providing the necessary support. If you’re a parent in Memphis, TN, you know that there are many great special needs schools in the area. But how do you choose the right one for your child? In this blog post, we’ll guide you through selecting the perfect educational environment that caters to your child’s unique learning style.
Table of Contents
Top 5 Special Needs Schools in Memphis TN
Finding the perfect educational haven for your neurodivergent kid is undeniably important. However, it’s a task easier said than done. To lend you a hand, we’ve shortlisted five special needs schools in Memphis, TN, each with their unique approach to special education, to help you easily navigate the waters.
| Name of the Location | Star Rating | Number of Reviews | Address | Hours of Operation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concord Academy | 4.3 | 7 | 4942 Walnut Grove Rd | Open ⋅ Closes 3 PM | Concord Academy specializes in an integrated approach, focusing on individualized instruction. |
| The ANGEL Program | N/A | N/A | 4841 Park Ave | N/A | The ANGEL Program, being a middle school, offers specialized programs for transitional ages. |
| Madonna Learning Center | 5.0 | 7 | Germantown, TN, United States | Open ⋅ Closes 3 PM | Madonna Learning Center, with its high rating, focuses on holistic development with an inclusive community. |
| The Seed Program | N/A | N/A | 6413 Quince Rd | N/A | The Seed Program as a Learning Center, concentrates on early educational support and interventions. |
| Harwood Center | 3.0 | 2 | 4075 Park Ave | Open ⋅ Closes 6 PM | Harwood Center, as a specialized clinic, offers therapeutic interventions and medical support. |
Every above-listed school has unique features that distinguish it. From the comprehensive individualized instruction at Concord Academy to the impeccable, child-centered approach of Madonna Learning Center, the options are truly diverse. They each provide different programs suited to varying learning needs, ensuring that school becomes a place where your child truly flourishes.
Read more: Autism Schools in Tennessee
Does Tennessee Have Good Special Education?
Undoubtedly, Tennessee stands out in its approach to special education. In fact, the state was given a “meets requirements” determination by the U.S. Department of Education in 2019 – the highest possible rating. This accolade affirms Tennessee’s relentless efforts to deliver quality special education.
This means that, on the whole, the state employs best-practice teaching strategies, offers a suitable and customized curriculum, and provides well-rounded support to students, considerably boosting outcomes in special education.
How Will You Know If a Person Needs Special Education?
When identifying if a child requires special education, it’s crucial to look for certain indicators. Some signs might include difficulty in learning, emotional or behavioral issues, or delayed development in speech, motor skills, or social abilities.
However, we should remember that each child is different. These kids learning journey is unique, and reaching certain milestones might take a tad longer for some kids. Through patience, observation, and professional assessments, you’ll be able to discern the need for special education and, correspondingly, the suitable environment for your child.
Read more: 5 Early Signs of Autism in Babies
How Long Can a Special Education Student Stay in School in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, special education services are available to eligible students from 3 until their 22nd birthday. This offers a wide window for kids with thinking and learning differences to receive the assistance they require and prepare for the world beyond the classroom.
Moreover, transition planning and services start at age 14 in Tennessee, unlike most states that start at 16. Schools like The ANGEL Program offer specialized programs for transitional ages, ensuring they’re adequately prepared for life after school.
Is Education Free in Tennessee?
Under federal law, all eligible students in the United States, including those living in Tennessee, are entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). Under this provision, special education is offered at no additional cost to parents. So, yes, special education is free in Tennessee!
However, some private schools and services come with a fee. The choice is plentiful, but remember that cost-effectiveness doesn’t compromise quality. The rich tapestry of special needs schools in Memphis, TN, including a selection of private and public institutions, is a testament to this.
How Goally Can Help
Goally is a great option for kids in Memphis, TN, who are looking for a way to improve their life and language skills. The tablet is available at a variety of special needs schools in the area, and it can also be purchased online.
The tablet is designed to be engaging and motivating, and it offers a variety of activities that target specific skills. For example, Goally can help kids learn how to follow directions, identify emotions, and communicate effectively.
Evidence shows that kids learn best when they’re having fun. Many teachers recommend using learning tech like Goally to engage with kids in a way they love.
Here are some specific examples of how Goally can help kids in Memphis, TN:
- A child with autism who is learning how to follow directions can use Goally to practice following simple and complex commands.
- A child with ADHD who is struggling with attention can use Goally to play games that require them to focus and stay on task.
- A child with a language delay can use Goally to practice identifying and naming objects, as well as learning new vocabulary words.
Goally’s distraction-free kid’s tablet can be used as a therapy tool to help teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more!
Choosing a school for your neurodivergent kid can feel like an uphill battle, but it doesn’t have to be. Armed with the right info, your path becomes clearer. Throughout this guide, we’ve outlined the best special needs schools in Memphis, TN, addressed key questions, and hopefully, broken down the door that was an impediment. Most importantly, you should remember that every child is unique. A school that meets the specific needs of your child is worth the search, and rest assured, they exist in the heart of Memphis!
Hennah is an experienced writer and researcher, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. As a blog contributor for Goally, she combines her deep understanding of neurodiversity with practical advice, offering valuable insights to parents and educators.
