Raising Brilliance

Autism Schools and Special Education in Minneapolis

Deciding where an autistic child will go to school is one of the heavier calls a Minneapolis parent makes — and there's rarely one obviously right answer. Options range from your neighborhood public school's special education services, to autism-focused charter schools, to private therapeutic programs. This page lays out how special education works in Minneapolis, what specialized schools exist in the metro, and how to think through the trade-offs honestly.

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Lionsgate Academy

Public charter school (autism-focused)

A tuition-free public charter school for grades 7-12 (plus an 18-22 transition program) designed specifically for students on the autism spectrum and with related learning differences, with on-site social, occupational, speech, and transition supports. Enrollment openings vary, so confirm availability directly.

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Fraser School

Inclusive preschool / therapeutic school

An inclusive early-childhood program (in nearby Richfield, serving south Minneapolis and beyond) where children of all abilities learn together, with speech, occupational, and physical therapy and autism supports embedded in the classroom day.

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St. David's Center for Child and Family Development

Inclusive early childhood / autism day treatment

Runs inclusive preschool and toddler programs alongside a relationship-based Autism Day Treatment program grounded in Floortime and SCERTS. A strong option for younger children who need therapeutic support woven into their school day.

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Get our free fall activities guide

10 autism-friendly fall activities, each with who it suits and how to make it work, plus an outing planner. Free PDF, downloaded instantly.

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