How many private schools for neurodivergent students are in the Bay Area?

If you’re hunting for the right school for your neurodivergent child, the Bay Area is a pretty great place to start. While no one’s keeping an official scoreboard, there are roughly 15–20 private schools focused on supporting students with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, and other learning differences. The lineup includes everything from full K–12 programs like Stanbridge Academy to high schools such as Compass and Holden, each offering its own brand of flexibility and care. Then there are gems like Big Minds, which cater to twice-exceptional learners who need more than the usual approach. You’ll find these schools sprinkled across San Francisco, the Peninsula, the East Bay, and Marin, making location another point in your favor. Not every school is a perfect fit for every child, but the variety here means your chances of finding a place where academics and emotional support work hand in hand are pretty high. In short: the Bay Area isn’t just tech-savvy—it’s education-savvy too, especially when it comes to kids who think differently.

Are neurodivergent-focused schools accredited in California?

Most Bay Area schools for neurodivergent students aren’t just doing great work, they’re doing it with a shiny seal of approval. The majority hold accreditation from big names like the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), which is basically the gold star of California education. Why does that matter? Because accreditation means the school meets high academic and operational standards, so your child’s hard-earned credits actually count and those doors to college stay wide open. Many of these schools also belong to professional groups like the California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS), adding even more credibility to their name. Think of it as the school equivalent of earning both the diploma and the bragging rights. Sure, a few newer or boutique programs may still be climbing the accreditation ladder, but the big players—Stanbridge, Sterne, Compass—are already at the top, waving their certified banners. For parents, this means peace of mind. You’re not just choosing a school that understands your child’s unique learning needs; you’re choosing one that’s recognized and respected across the board. Translation: they’re not only thinking outside the box—they’ve got the official stamp to prove they know what they’re doing.

Do Bay Area schools for neurodivergent students require standardized entrance exams?

Most of these schools skip the “test or bust” approach entirely. Traditional entrance exams like the SSAT or ISEE? Forget it—they’re usually off the table because one score doesn’t tell the whole story of your child’s potential. These schools understand that learning differences don’t show up neatly in multiple-choice questions. Instead, admissions teams go deeper. They want to know who your child is, not just what they can bubble in. That means interviews to get a sense of personality, parent questionnaires for insight at home, teacher recommendations to understand classroom dynamics, and sometimes a short writing sample to gauge communication skills. Some schools might also request recent evaluations or psychoeducational assessments, not as gatekeepers, but to better tailor support plans. The best part? There’s no high-pressure, stress-filled testing marathon standing between your child and a seat in class. These schools care about strengths, challenges, and learning styles—not test prep stats. So if you were bracing for months of vocabulary drills and math practice, you can relax. Here, admissions is about fit, not figures. And that shift changes everything for families who know their kids are more than a score.

Can neurodivergent students participate in mainstream sports or arts programs through these schools?

Absolutely, and honestly, sometimes the options are even cooler than what you’d find at a traditional school. Many neurodivergent-focused schools roll out their own sports teams, art studios, and performance programs, giving students a safe, encouraging space to try new things. No soccer field? No problem. These schools often partner with local leagues, community theaters, and art centers to keep opportunities wide open. So yes, your child can still score that winning goal, land a role in a play, or paint their heart out like a mini Picasso. Inside the classroom, creativity isn’t a side dish—it’s baked right into the main course. Music becomes a confidence booster, visual art doubles as a calming strategy, and theater sneaks in some social skills practice. For kids who learn differently, these outlets aren’t just “fun activities.” They’re essential tools for self-expression and emotional balance. And sports? They’re just as important. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or track, athletics help build teamwork, resilience, and that priceless sense of belonging. So whether your child wants to score the big goal, take a bow under the spotlight, or craft their next masterpiece, these schools make sure there’s room to shine—on stage, on the field, and everywhere in between.

How to Find the Best Private School for My Neurodivergent Child in the Bay Area

Finding the right school for a neurodivergent child can feel like hunting for a unicorn—but good news, the Bay Area has plenty of magic. These schools don’t just teach; they understand. With small classes, personalized learning, and a big dose of social-emotional support, they help kids with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, twice-exceptional, and more thrive. Here are the standouts. (This list is not ranked in any way.)

Stanbridge Academy: Best for Autism and Executive Functioning in San Mateo

Stanbridge Academy has been a trusted choice for families seeking a supportive, inclusive environment for neurodivergent learners.

Personalized Learning & Support for ADHD, Autism & Executive Functioning

Because not every brain follows the same blueprint, Stanbridge is where kids who think differently truly shine. Serving K–12, it blends strong academics with social-emotional support for ADHD, autism, and executive functioning needs. Families rave about the small classes, personalized approach, and a culture that celebrates differences instead of smoothing them away. It’s structured with heart, and it works.

See What Makes Stanbridge Special

Curious about how Stanbridge supports neurodiverse learners? Visit their website to explore programs, community values, and how they help students thrive.

Ready to Begin Your Stanbridge Journey?

We’ll guide you through the admissions process, from applications to interviews, so your child has the best chance at finding their fit here.

Sterne School: Individualized Support for Dyslexia, ADHD, and Executive Functioning in SF

Sterne School offers a safe, encouraging space for students who thrive with individualized attention and targeted support.

Tailored Academic Programs for Grades 4-12 in San Francisco

Families choose Sterne for its smart blend of academics and real support. Serving grades 4–12, it’s a haven for students with ADHD, dyslexia, and executive functioning needs. Small classes, personalized strategies, and built-in literacy programs make learning click. At Sterne, kids don’t just keep up—they figure out how they learn best and thrive while doing it.

Discover Sterne Up Close

Want a closer look at Sterne’s personalized approach? Head over to their site to learn about programs, teaching methods, and student life.

Let’s Get You Started with Sterne Admissions

We’ll help you navigate every step—applications, recommendations, and preparation—to make Sterne a real option for your family.

Compass High School: The Peninsula’s Premier College Prep for Neurodiverse Teens

Compass High School is where personalized learning meets college prep for teens who need more than a traditional classroom.

Supporting Students with ADHD, Autism Level 1, Dyslexia & Anxiety

Families love Compass for its perfect mix of academics and support designed for neurodiverse learners. Serving grades 9–12, it’s built for students with ADHD, autism (Level 1), dyslexia, and anxiety. With small classes, executive function coaching, and a strong college-prep program, Compass helps students gain confidence while gearing up for their next big step.

Explore Compass for Yourself

Learn more about Compass High School’s supportive community and college-prep focus. Visit their website to see what makes them stand out.

Begin Your Compass Admissions Plan

From initial inquiries to final submissions, we’ll help you create a strong application strategy tailored to Compass High School.

Sand Hill School: A Nurturing Sanctuary for Language-Based Learning Differences in Palo Alto

Sand Hill School is the go-to for families who want a nurturing environment that understands both learning and emotional needs.

Evidence-Based Reading Instruction for Grades 2-8 in Palo Alto

Sand Hill is all about helping kids with language-based learning differences, ADHD, and social challenges thrive. Serving grades 2–8, it pairs evidence-based reading instruction with confidence-boosting strategies. Parents love its warm community, social-emotional programs, and individualized approach that turns frustration into progress—with plenty of smiles along the way.

Take a Closer Look at Sand Hill

Want to see how Sand Hill helps students build confidence and skills? Check out their website for details on programs and support services.

Ready to Kick Off Sand Hill Admissions?

We’ll walk you through the process and ensure your child’s application highlights their strengths and learning style.

Orinda Academy: The Best Small-Campus High School for ADHD and Mild Autism in the East Bay

Orinda Academy is a small, welcoming community where personalized learning and emotional support go hand in hand.

College-Preparatory Support for Neurodivergent Students in East Bay

Families appreciate Orinda Academy for its commitment to meeting students where they are. Serving grades 8–12, it supports learners with ADHD, mild autism, and anxiety while keeping a strong college-prep focus. With small classes, caring teachers, and flexible accommodations, Orinda helps students feel seen, understood, and prepared for what’s next.

Explore Orinda Academy in Detail

Check out their site to learn about the school’s welcoming community, tailored support for neurodiverse learners, and college-prep programs.

Let’s Begin Your Orinda Academy Journey

We’ll guide you step by step through admissions so your child has the best chance to thrive in this supportive environment.

Holden High School: Therapeutic and Academic Excellence for Teens with Anxiety and ADHD

Holden High School offers a supportive, therapeutic environment for teens who need both academic structure and emotional care.

Holistic Education for Learning Differences, ADHD & Anxiety in Orinda

Families choose Holden for its personalized approach to learning and well-being. Serving grades 9–12, it supports students with ADHD, learning differences, anxiety, and social-emotional challenges. With small classes, restorative practices, and a strong sense of community, Holden helps students rebuild confidence and get ready for life beyond high school.

Learn More About Holden High

Explore Holden’s therapeutic approach and individualized learning plans by visiting their website for details on programs and community support.

Ready to Start Holden Admissions?

We’ll help you prepare everything from applications to interviews, making sure your child’s strengths and needs shine through.

The Burkard School: Specialized Behavioral and Emotional Regulation Support in San Mateo

The Burkard School is a small, specialized program that gives kids the structure and support they need to shine.

Nurturing K-8 Environment for Executive Functioning Skills Development

Families choose Burkard for its focus on ADHD, anxiety, mild autism, and executive functioning skills. Serving grades K–8, it offers small classes, personalized instruction, and a nurturing environment where students learn strategies to succeed academically and socially. It’s a place where progress feels personal and absolutely possible.

Discover The Burkard Experience

Check out The Burkard School’s website to see how they create a structured, supportive environment for students with ADHD and executive functioning needs.

Begin Your Burkard Admissions Path

Our team can guide you through the admissions steps so your child is ready to succeed in this personalized learning setting.

North Bridge Academy: Marin’s Expert Specialists in Dyslexia and Structured Literacy

North Bridge Academy is a haven for young learners who need targeted help with reading and language skills in a supportive setting.

Structured Literacy Programs for Language-Based Learning Differences

Families choose North Bridge for its expertise in dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Serving grades 2–8, the school uses structured literacy programs and multisensory teaching methods to create strong academic foundations. With small classes and a focus on confidence-building, North Bridge transforms reading struggles into stepping stones for success.

See What North Bridge Offers

Visit North Bridge Academy online to learn how they help students with dyslexia and language-based challenges thrive through structured literacy.

Let’s Get Started with North Bridge Admissions

From forms to preparation, we’ll make the process smooth and ensure your child’s application stands out.

Big Minds: The Best Choice for Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners

Big Minds is designed for bright kids who don’t quite fit into traditional boxes, offering an environment where their strengths truly shine.

Cultivating Gifted Students with ADHD, Autism, or Dyslexia

Families love Big Minds for its dedication to twice-exceptional (2e) learners—gifted students who also have ADHD, autism, or dyslexia. Serving grades K–8, it focuses on individualized learning, curiosity-driven projects, and social-emotional growth. Here, being different isn’t a hurdle; it’s celebrated as the foundation for brilliance.

Explore Big Minds Today

Check out Big Minds’ site to learn about their innovative approach for twice-exceptional learners and project-based, individualized education.

Ready to Begin Big Minds Admissions?

We’ll help you navigate applications and highlight your child’s strengths so they find the perfect fit in this creative learning space.

Ready to Find the Perfect Fit?

Choosing the right school for your neurodivergent child isn’t easy, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Cardinal Education, we’ve helped countless families navigate the admissions process with confidence, from identifying the best-fit schools to crafting applications that truly showcase a student’s strengths. Our expert team understands the unique challenges and opportunities for neurodiverse learners, and we know what it takes to make your child stand out.

Whether you’re aiming for personalized learning, strong social-emotional support, or college-prep excellence, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Let’s turn uncertainty into clarity and stress into strategy.

Ready to get started? Contact Cardinal Education today and give your child the education they deserve.

Like what you see here? We are happy to permit you to use our material as long as you link back! Please refer to us as the Cardinal Education Blog.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many private schools for neurodivergent students are in the Bay Area?
If you’re hunting for the right school for your neurodivergent child, the Bay Area is a pretty great place to start. While no one’s keeping an official scoreboard, there are roughly 15–20 private schools focused on supporting students with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, and other learning differences. The lineup includes everything from full K–12 programs like Stanbridge Academy to high schools such as Compass and Holden, each offering its own brand of flexibility and care. Then there are gems like Big Minds, which cater to twice-exceptional learners who need more than the usual approach.

You’ll find these schools sprinkled across San Francisco, the Peninsula, the East Bay, and Marin, making location another point in your favor. Not every school is a perfect fit for every child, but the variety here means your chances of finding a place where academics and emotional support work hand in hand are pretty high. In short: the Bay Area isn’t just tech-savvy—it’s education-savvy too, especially when it comes to kids who think differently.
Are neurodivergent-focused schools accredited in California?
Most Bay Area schools for neurodivergent students aren’t just doing great work, they’re doing it with a shiny seal of approval. The majority hold accreditation from big names like the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), which is basically the gold star of California education. Why does that matter? Because accreditation means the school meets high academic and operational standards, so your child’s hard-earned credits actually count and those doors to college stay wide open.

Many of these schools also belong to professional groups like the California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS), adding even more credibility to their name. Think of it as the school equivalent of earning both the diploma and the bragging rights.

Sure, a few newer or boutique programs may still be climbing the accreditation ladder, but the big players—Stanbridge, Sterne, Compass—are already at the top, waving their certified banners. For parents, this means peace of mind. You’re not just choosing a school that understands your child’s unique learning needs; you’re choosing one that’s recognized and respected across the board. Translation: they’re not only thinking outside the box—they’ve got the official stamp to prove they know what they’re doing.
Do Bay Area schools for neurodivergent students require standardized entrance exams?
Most of these schools skip the “test or bust” approach entirely. Traditional entrance exams like the SSAT or ISEE? Forget it—they’re usually off the table because one score doesn’t tell the whole story of your child’s potential. These schools understand that learning differences don’t show up neatly in multiple-choice questions.

Instead, admissions teams go deeper. They want to know who your child is, not just what they can bubble in. That means interviews to get a sense of personality, parent questionnaires for insight at home, teacher recommendations to understand classroom dynamics, and sometimes a short writing sample to gauge communication skills. Some schools might also request recent evaluations or psychoeducational assessments, not as gatekeepers, but to better tailor support plans.

The best part? There’s no high-pressure, stress-filled testing marathon standing between your child and a seat in class. These schools care about strengths, challenges, and learning styles—not test prep stats. So if you were bracing for months of vocabulary drills and math practice, you can relax. Here, admissions is about fit, not figures. And that shift changes everything for families who know their kids are more than a score.
Can neurodivergent students participate in mainstream sports or arts programs through these schools?
Absolutely, and honestly, sometimes the options are even cooler than what you’d find at a traditional school. Many neurodivergent-focused schools roll out their own sports teams, art studios, and performance programs, giving students a safe, encouraging space to try new things. No soccer field? No problem. These schools often partner with local leagues, community theaters, and art centers to keep opportunities wide open. So yes, your child can still score that winning goal, land a role in a play, or paint their heart out like a mini Picasso.

Inside the classroom, creativity isn’t a side dish—it’s baked right into the main course. Music becomes a confidence booster, visual art doubles as a calming strategy, and theater sneaks in some social skills practice. For kids who learn differently, these outlets aren’t just “fun activities.” They’re essential tools for self-expression and emotional balance. And sports? They’re just as important. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or track, athletics help build teamwork, resilience, and that priceless sense of belonging.

So whether your child wants to score the big goal, take a bow under the spotlight, or craft their next masterpiece, these schools make sure there’s room to shine—on stage, on the field, and everywhere in between.