Children with sensory processing disorder (SPD) can find it challenging to learn and socialize effectively in traditional school settings. This is because these students process sensory stimulations, such as sound, lighting, and touch, with varying levels of intensity.
Students with sensory processing disorder can experience either:
- Increased sensitivity to sensory input: These students may struggle with harsh fluorescent lights or noisy classroom environments. They may become bothered by certain textures or touch (such as a hug from a classmate, a high five from a teacher, or group activities that put them in close quarters with other students).
- Decreased sensitivity to sensory input: Students with decreased sensitivity often look for ways to get stimulated. This can involve fidgeting, rocking and swaying, touching objects and others, putting things in their mouth, humming/singing, and not understanding the boundaries of other students.
Further, students with decreased sensitivity may not be easily stimulated or engaged with traditional learning environments — such as sitting in a chair for long hours and listening as a teacher lectures. Instead, they may require more stimulating mediums, such as educational videos, graphic novels, lessons in song, etc.
Both types of students with SPD may benefit from a change in environment — such as having a class outside for the day or talking out a problem with their teacher in more of a dialogue, and less of a one-sided instructional lecture.
The “right” method will vary by student. For example, one of our students at Fusion Academy excelled when she was allowed to pursue her studies while wearing noise-canceling headphones.
That sort of flexibility is hard, if not impossible, to find in traditional schools. But if these issues aren’t addressed and tended to, students with sensory processing disorder can start to fall behind in their classes, exhibit signs of anxiety and depression, struggle to make friends, feel like they don’t “belong” at school, and then even refuse to attend school.
Thankfully, there are schools in the U.S. that structure their programs to help students with sensory processing disorder thrive both academically and socially.
In general, the best schools for sensory processing disorder are schools that are able to cater the classroom and campus environment towards the student. This can include:
- Changing how an instructor teaches the curriculum. Perhaps your child does better with video tools or highly visual textbooks. Other children may do better with conversational teaching, where they and the instructor can engage in 1-to-1 dialogue.
- Adapting the classroom environment towards the student (vs. making the student adapt to an uncomfortable and distracting environment). This can involve creating a sensory-sensitive environment, like using dim lighting, taking graphics and distracting images off walls, playing white noise in the background, etc.
- Implementing sensory breaks into classes. Sensory breaks — such as periods for movement around the class or moments for silence — can help children with SPD stay motivated and prevent learning fatigue.
- Keeping classes small. Schools with smaller class sizes are generally better suited for students with SPD, as large classes are full of visual and auditory simulations which can be distracting and overwhelming. Further, in large classrooms, teachers cannot provide specialized, one-to-one instruction that can be so valuable for students with sensory processing difficulties.
- Offer flexible scheduling. Flexible scheduling benefits students and their families in key ways. First, some students may concentrate better earlier in the morning or later in the day. Being able to pick when class starts is a big plus for these students.Second, students with SPD may have appointments with therapists and counselors, and keeping this routine is important. So it’s best when a school can work with your child’s existing programs, not against them.
In this post, we gathered a resource directory of schools that in some way specialize in helping students with sensory processing disorder. We include elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. We include schools for every state in the U.S., as well as schools that have remote learning options.
We start with taking a deeper look at our own school, Fusion Academy.
Our 1-to-1 learning methodology is a natural fit for students with sensory processing disorder.
Fusion Academy has campuses in 18 states, along with Washington, D.C., and also offers an online option for remote learning.
Fusion Academy: A Middle School and High School for Students with Sensory Processing Disorder
Fusion Academy is a nationally accredited private school for grades 6–12, designed specifically to provide a 1-on-1 learning environment.
This 1-on-1 learning model, where one teacher works with one student for the duration of the class, is a natural fit for students with sensory processing difficulties, for several reasons, including:
- Flexible learning environments and methods. Children with SPD have an easier time focusing in our classrooms, as we can help control the amount of sensory input they receive — adding or removing stimuli as necessary. Further, our teachers can give higher levels of attention and personalized instruction because they don’t need to manage a classroom with dozens of students.
- Spaces for studying on campus and socializing. We have 80 Fusion Academy campuses across 18 states throughout the U.S., along with Washington, D.C., where students can do their schoolwork. Our campuses feature Quiet Homework Cafés, dedicated to studying, as well as Social Homework Cafés, where students participating in engaging social programs can socialize while completing their independent work. Additionally, students can eat lunch together, play games, join clubs, and more.
- Flexible scheduling. Our students benefit from a very flexible schedule. This can include choosing which days or times of the day are best for them to learn. Plus, students can choose between both in-campus learning or remote learning (which is done with a teacher over a Zoom call).
You can keep reading to learn more about how Fusion Academy sets up students with sensory processing disorder for success, or you can reach out if you have any questions about our programs.
Flexible Learning Environments and Methods
As our classes are 1-to-1, our teachers can adapt the class environment to meet your child’s sensory needs. Again, this will look different from student to student, whether that be playing music during class, stretching and moving throughout, or even learning outside on the grass.
We also encourage students to communicate when they need a sensory break during class. We understand that sitting still for extended periods can lead to restlessness, so we actively promote movement throughout the lesson — even running laps around campus, if needed.
We implement personalized learning in our classrooms, allowing your child to progress through material and grades at their own pace, according to their unique learning style. Our teachers focus on areas where your child may be struggling and foster an environment where questions can be asked without fear of judgment from peers.
Our teachers are trained and experienced in working with various learning differences, and can effectively utilize tools like visual learning aids, mnemonic tools, and other creative strategies to make learning fun and effective. Additionally, if your child is working with professionals in the community, we’re able to get in touch with them to discuss learning techniques and strategies, taking their recommendations into the class environment to best help your child as an individual.
“My son was struggling with math in public high school. It quickly became clear that the large classroom setting was not going to work for him. He’s completed two years of high school math with Fusion — and he is doing great in class!”
– Susen Omens (Parent)
As some children may manage SPD better at home — or may not live near one of our campuses — we offer an online alternative, Fusion Global Academy. This lets your child continue their education remotely while attending summer camps for children with sensory processing disorder.
Some families prefer a hybrid model, where their child will attend a mix of in-person and online classes, making it easier to balance symptom-management, their specific circumstances, and their education.
This flexibility is key in helping our students succeed and feel supported. After three months at Fusion, 95% of our students feel they get the academic support they need to succeed, compared to just 42% before attending.
“I didn’t know if I was going to graduate high school — I thought I was going to drop out. But I’m here now, moving on, things are possible!”
– Kate Nissen (Fusion Academy Graduate)
Curious what other students have to say about us? Watch our students video testimonials
Flexible Scheduling
Our flexibility also lends itself to when your child will attend their classes.
With flexible scheduling, children can choose certain days and times on when to attend class. This is especially beneficial for children with sensory processing disorder — as they may benefit from starting classes later in the day, working in intervals, and scheduling their classes around their appointments outside of school.
As classes are 1-on-1, your child can begin the school year with us at any point in time, as well as progress through the curriculum, and subsequent grades, at their own pace. That also means there’s no problem if your child needs to take a mental break from schooling, or attend activities related to their SPD — they can continue right where they left off when they’re ready to resume.
It’s possible to attend classes both physically and virtually through Fusion Global Academy. You can decide which classes you’d prefer to take online, and if you travel through the states, resume in-person classes from any of our 80 campuses.
Along with full-time attendance, we also offer part-time learning. If your child needs assistance with particular subjects they find challenging, they can join us for tutoring and get additional assistance. Students can also use our tutoring alongside their school of record to make up for missed grades, or as a trial to get a taste of the Fusion Academy experience before joining us full-time.
“My son struggled for years to find the right fit for school. The passion and commitment of the teachers and administrators at Fusion is something I haven’t seen anywhere. I can’t say enough positive things about our experience at Fusion — they truly care about these kids.”
– Stephen Kessler (Fusion Parent)
Interested in what other parents are saying about us? Read the Fusion Academy Quote Book
Spaces for Studying and Socializing on Campus
Every Fusion Academy campus has two rooms where students can work together, which we call “Homework Cafés.” In one, students can chat about their school work and meet up for club activities, while the other is a dedicated silent space for focused work.
Children with SPD benefit from being able to switch between the rooms as they like, or use additional equipment such as noise canceling headphones, to best meet their sensory needs.
For many children with sensory processing disorder, home may be a tough environment to learn in, with gadgets like televisions or radios in the background being overwhelming. Others may find it far more stimulating to learn with music, friends, or with a Homework Café teacher. We don’t expect our students to complete any homework outside of school hours, which allows your child to use that time for relaxation, as well as family moments.
Instead, your child will visit the Homework Cafés during the school day to complete their tasks, and have access to teachers and peers in case they need any help — leaving afternoons totally free for the clubs and extracurricular activities they enjoy.
“This school has made all the difference in my granddaughter’s life! The assignments are rigorous, but the teaching methods are designed to fit her individual needs. She’s crushing it! A+ in both English and Algebra! We are all in!”
– VKB (Fusion Relative)
We have a wide range of clubs that your child can try out — helping them uncover interests they weren’t aware of, and make lasting friendships through new passions. Our teachers are always present during club meetings, keeping a watchful eye on your child to ensure their senses aren’t being overburdened, as well as to make sure they’re having fun.
After only three months with us, 90% of students report having built social connections where they feel respected — compared to just 57% beforehand.
Students also have an opportunity to build up their self-confidence and develop a stronger sense of autonomy by taking up leadership roles, and managing student clubs themselves.
Music Club at Fusion Academy
Our student club offerings vary between campuses, but some of the clubs we offer include:
- Writers Club
- Music Club
- Documentary Club
- Running Club
- Drama Club
- D&D Club
- Yoga Club
- Student Government
Between lessons, our students can connect with friends and mentors, take sensory breaks, and relax before the next class. This ensures that 1:1 learning remains engaging without being overstimulating or socially isolating.
There are also plenty of opportunities for your child to get outside of the classroom, and enjoy exciting field trips with friends. We’ve arranged everything from indoor rock climbing, to volunteering at animal shelters — ensuring there’s time for fun, but also aiming to build character and compassion in students through giving back to the local community.
Along with recreational field trips, students may also be offered an opportunity to visit local universities. We can assist any student looking to develop their portfolios and submit their college applications — ensuring they’re set up for success long before their Fusion Academy graduation ceremonies. That way, they have peace of mind about their futures, and can fully enjoy prom night.
Want to learn more about the Fusion Academy experience? Take our virtual tour today.
Where Can My Child Attend Fusion Academy?
In addition to remote learning, Fusion Academy has physical locations in:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- Washington D.C.
- Washington State
Other Schools for Sensory Processing Disorder
LiFT
Founded in 2014, LiFT (Learning Independence For Tomorrow) is located in Clearwater, Florida, and focuses on helping students with neurodiversity. Their website specifically mentions autism, autism spectrum disorders, ADD, ADHD, learning differences, anxiety disorders, and more.
For sensory processing disorders, LiFT offers smaller class sizes, bullying relief, student-direct programs, and co-curricular therapy.
LiFT’s main academic program is called LiFT Academy, and it’s for students of all academic levels, from Kindergarten through 12th grade.
They also have the LiFT University Transition Program, which is a post-secondary program designed to help young adults with neurodiversity.
Cajal Academy
Cajal Academy, located in Westport, Connecticut, teaches students from K–12.
They put project-based learning at the center of their educational model and focus on developing a student’s critical thinking, executive function, and social collaboration.
Cajal Academy could be a good option for your child because of its:
- Small class size, with 3–6 kids per class
- Embedded occupational therapy and physical therapy expertise
- Sensory integration therapy
- Social-emotional counseling tailored to dyspraxic kids’ experiences
- And more
Schools for Sensory Processing Disorder (By State)
Next, we wanted to provide some additional options for schools in states that we haven’t covered.
During our research, we found that not every state has a school specific to teaching students with sensory processing disorder.
Still, we did our best to find specialized schools and private schools that have flexible educational models and the necessary resources to accommodate students with disorders like SPD. This means some of the schools below are focused on teaching students with ADHD and autism. The idea is that these schools are more likely to have the resources and experience to help teach a student with sensory processing issues.
Note: We didn’t find any applicable schools in Alaska, West Virginia, or Wyoming.
Alabama
The Allan Cott School for Autism in Birmingham, Alabama provides educational and therapeutic services to children ages 6–21 with autism and other learning differences.
While not specifically aimed at children with SPD, the small school environment of about 3 students per teacher, along with their expertise in assisting those with learning differences, makes them a great environment for students with sensory struggles.
Arkansas
The Grace School in Fayetteville, Arkansas, serves children ages 5 to 21 and maintains small class sizes with just six students per teacher.
They specialize in supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and offer an individualized environment that caters to those with sensory challenges.
The school can integrate pediatric therapies into your child’s daily routine, and all faculty members are trained in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and precision teaching.
Delaware
The Pilot School in Wilmington, Delaware, serves children ages 5–14 and is designed to provide custom and flexible curriculums to learners with unique learning needs.
They specialize in sensory processing disorder, and keep their school at a ratio of 5 children per teacher. They have an occupational therapy space on campus, as well as a rock climbing wall and other amenities to keep students entertained.
Hawaii
The Variety School of Hawaii is based out of Honolulu and specifically designed for students ages 5–22 with developmental challenges, anxiety-related disorders, and autism.
They use an individualized education program approach, and have specialized teachers, as well as therapists present to assist your child. While not specifically catering to those with SPD, children with sensory issues can benefit from the individualized approach.
Idaho
Inspire Connections Academy is an online, tuition-free school for residents of Idaho, and serves grades K–12. They personalize their education to meet each child’s needs, and have families design their child’s schedule, as well as control their learning environment.
While the school isn’t specifically for those requiring special education, they stand apart by offering high-levels of flexibility, as well as enabling parents to act as a “learning coach” for their child, where they can expect to provide support in online activities, structure the school day, and monitor attendance.
Indiana
The Independence Academy was founded by parents of children on the autism spectrum. Located in Indianapolis, they serve grades 4–12, and focus on creating a supportive environment where students can meet their personal goals. The curriculum is evidence-based, and tailored to the students unique needs.
Additionally, the school incorporates sensory activities and motor activities throughout the day to help students stay calm, making it a great option for those with sensory processing disorder.
Iowa
Holy Family Catholic Schools in Dubuque, Iowa, serves grades Pre-K–12 and structures their educational approach around personalized learning.
They cater to the individual pace and needs of each student, and allow students to use laptops, tablets, and interactive whiteboards to make each lesson more engaging. Mentors offer personal attention to each student, and along with the personalized learning approach, make Holy Family an accommodating choice for children with sensory struggles.
Kansas
Horizon Academy, based in Roeland Park, Kansas, specializes in educating children with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia.
They maintain a ratio of 5:1 students per teacher, and emphasize personalized learning and individual attention, making it a great option for students who also have sensory sensitivities.
Note: Your child will require a primary diagnosis to be eligible.
Kentucky
KORE Academy in Lexington, Kentucky, specializes in educating children with sensory conditions, and other learning differences.
They serve grades K–12, and use a multisensory teaching approach to address each student’s unique learning styles. It’s a small school, with under 50 students (about 4 students per teacher) making it a calm environment for children with SPD to learn and focus in.
Louisiana
The Brighton School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is specifically designed to help children with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. They keep classes relatively small, with 12 or fewer children per classroom, and serve grades 1–12.
Their teaching approach is individualized and tailored to the unique needs of each student, using evidence-based methods proven to benefit those with learning differences.
Maine
The Collaborative School in New Gloucester, Maine, caters to children in need of specialized education across grades K–12.
While their focus is on aiding children with ADHD and autism, they provide a nurturing environment where children with sensory sensitivities can also thrive.
The Collaborative School tailors their programs around individual students and their therapeutic needs, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking and ice skating.
Michigan
Eton Academy is a school for children with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences, making it a sensible choice for children with SPD who may struggle to pay attention.
Based in Birmingham, Michigan, they teach grades 1–12 and maintain a student-to-teacher ratio of 7:1, ensuring strong personalization and individual support.
Eton Academy offers 11 different interscholastic sports, among other clubs and activities.
Mississippi
Based in Jackson, Mississippi, Cares Schools offers small class sizes of 8–10 students, and specializes in working with children who require specialized assistance, such as those with Autism or other learning differences.
The school employs licensed behavioral specialists to cater to their students academic and behavioral needs, and curriculum is constructed around individualized attention and therapeutic assistance — making it accommodating to those with SPD.
Missouri
Nova Center Inc. School in Missouri serves ages 5–21 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of about 4:1, creating a calm environment that’s well-suited for individuals with sensory processing disorders.
The school can tailor educational programs as needed, and all teachers are certified in special education, having completed a professional training program incorporating intensive behavioral, sensory, communicative, and positive behavior support training.
Montana
Yellowstone Academy, located on a 410-acre ranch in Billings, Montana, serves grades 6–12. They specialize in supporting students with emotional, behavioral, and learning challenges, keeping class sizes below 10 to provide individualized attention for each child.
The school’s faculty is equipped with licensed therapists, psychologists, and counselors, fostering an environment where children can receive support as needed.
Nebraska
Boys Town School, located in Boys Town, Nebraska, features cutting-edge science labs and a welcoming environment designed to foster academic success for students in need of special education, such as children with SPD (although they accept students from all backgrounds).
They serve grades 4–12, and have two additional campuses within Nebraska of different names. They maintain class sizes of 10–12 students, and ensure personalized support and attention to help each student thrive and overcome their unique struggles.
Nevada
Newton Learning Center, based in Reno, Nevada, provides specialized education for children in grades K–12 who are on the upper end of the autism spectrum or have other learning differences. They use a tailored educational approach for every student, helping them overcome classes they’ve struggled with in the past.
With a student-faculty ratio of 8:1, students get the individual attention they need while addressing their unique struggles. The program is fairly intensive, and allows students to progress through multiple grades within a relatively short time period.
New Hampshire
Windham Woods School in Windham, New Hampshire is situated on a beautiful 250-acre campus and serves children in grades 1–12. The school emphasizes a hands-on, exploratory approach to learning, making it an appealing option for children with sensory differences.
The curriculum is highly personalized to the unique needs of each student and their learning style. Class sizes are small, making it easy for teachers to give each student individual attention, and the school can also implement ILPs (Individualized Learning Plans).
New Mexico
DLD Sycamore School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is dedicated to educating students with learning differences.
Their class sizes are relatively small, with no more than 10 children per lesson, and personalized attention is the foundation of their teaching approach. Students can learn at their own pace, with their own individualized curriculum, tailored to their unique needs.
North Dakota
Based in Jamestown, North Dakota, the Anne Carlsen Center is a school for children with learning differences and developmental disabilities.
They accept students in grades K–12 and maintain a student-to-teacher ratio of 3:1, allowing for a high degree of individual attention.
To ensure academic success, they create individualized education plans for each student to meet their unique learning needs.
The Anne Carlsen Center also features a sensory gym on campus, spaces for various therapies, and private rooms for quiet learning.
Ohio
Julie Billiart Schools is a network of schools with campuses across northern Ohio, providing special education to children with learning differences such as dyslexia and autism.
They cater to grades K–8 and keep class sizes small, with 8 or fewer children per class.
Each lesson typically has two teachers present, helping to provide greater individualized attention, and access to support when a student needs assistance with learning material. The curriculum integrates various therapeutic programs, and all teachers are certified intervention specialists.
Oklahoma
Located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Trinity School at Edgemere provides specialized education to students with learning differences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and sensory processing disorder. They teach grades K–12, and tailor their educational approach for each student to meet their unique needs.
They have spaces designed for children with SPD to help them take sensory breaks, and classrooms are small to avoid overwhelming them. Along with a personalized educational approach, there are math interventionists, reading therapists, and other experts on campus to help each student succeed.
Oregon
Based in Sherwood, Oregon, Victory Academy is a year-round school that caters to students in grades K–12.
They specialize in teaching children with autism and other learning differences, offering a nurturing environment where they can develop relationships and independence. They maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio of about 3:1 and integrate both academic and therapeutic components into each student’s personalized curriculum.
They offer sensory integration therapy, along with other therapies. In fact, it’s Oregon’s only year-round accredited school for students with autism.
Pennsylvania
Located in Wyoming, Pennsylvania, New Story Schools teaches grades K–12 and specializes in supporting children with autism. They’re a small school with class sizes of 8 or fewer students and maintain a student-to-teacher ratio of 5:1.
The school tailors education to the learning needs and behavioral requirements of each child, while integrating speech and occupational therapy into their curriculum. Their commitment to individualized attention and support makes them an appealing option for children with sensory processing disorder.
Rhode Island
Based in East Providence, Rhode Island, The Wolf School teaches children with complex learning differences in grades K–8. They’re certified as a special education program by the Rhode Island department of education, and integrate therapeutic support into their curriculum.
They keep classes relatively small, about 10 children per class, and address sensory regulation with the help of a team of various therapists on staff.
South Carolina
Trident School in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, provides specialized education to students in grades K-12 and has developed their school environment to cater specifically to the needs of children with dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and other learning differences.
The school uses an educational method known as the “Orton-Gillingham approach”, which is highly structured, diagnostic, and focuses on the unique needs of each student individually.
Class sizes are small, and multi-sensory techniques are integrated into learning to help children learn more effectively.
South Dakota
Located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Teachwell Prosper School teaches grades K–12 and is dedicated to serving children with autism, along with other learning differences.
They create individualized plans to foster a supportive and personalized learning environment, and provide one-on-one instruction alongside group learning to help students thrive both academically and socially.
Teachwell Prosper offers various therapies, and teaches life skills alongside academic subjects to help each student develop their confidence and independence.
Utah
New Focus Academy, in Heber, Utah is a school for children ages 12–18 with social and functional challenges, including sensory processing disorder.
Their small classes of just two students per room keeps lessons from becoming overwhelming, and personalized attention assures high-degrees of support.
They offer a residential program that integrates specialized academics and clinical intervention to promote growth and autonomy.
Vermont
The Greenwood School, located on a 100-acre campus in Putney, Vermont, is a day and boarding school specializing in educating boys with learning differences such as dyslexia and ADHD.
They’re a supportive environment and tailor their educational approach to the needs of each individual. The school maintains a student-faculty ratio of 2:1, and class sizes of just four students, fostering an atmosphere where students can thrive without being overwhelmed.
The school integrates a variety of support services, such as sensory integration, making it a great option for children with sensory processing disorder.
Wisconsin
With multiple campuses across Wisconsin, The Richardson School is a therapeutic day school for students with developmental, neurological, and behavioral differences.
They cater to grades K–12, and put heavy emphasis on individualization and student-focused approaches to learning.
The Richardson School maintains a student-teacher ratio of about 5:1 and offers a variety of therapeutic supports, such as occupational therapy.
They integrate technology such as iPads and Chromebooks into lessons to keep students stimulated, and maintain small class sizes to ensure individualized attention.
Next Steps: Reach Out to the Best School for Your Child
Above, we provided a comprehensive resource of schools across the United States that help students with sensory processing disorder thrive both socially and academically.
Our list included both physical campuses for in-person learning and schools conducted online for remote learning.
For Fusion Academy, we spoke at length about our full-time and part-time academic programs, which use a 1-to-1 personalized learning methodology (perfect for students with sensory processing disorder).
At Fusion Academy, we also offer:
- Classes for credit: A way for students to make up credits they’re behind on or to even get ahead in their classes.
- Tutoring/mentoring: We offer tutoring for specific courses, such as algebra, chemistry, physics, english, test prep courses, and more.
- Post-secondary counseling: For students nearing the end of their high school education, we offer post-secondary counseling. This includes college prep, course review, SAT and ACT prep timeline review, and more.
Contact us today to learn more.
