Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About the School

Why would I want my child to attend The Special Children's School?

Educators, therapists and parents across the region have recognized and affirmed our mission, vision and values for over thirty years. National accreditation awards and a North Carolina Five Star Day Care rating only enhance that image.

But the most important reason is not external affirmations, but the comfort as well as the excitement you will feel when you visit. Each classroom, partnered with a team of therapists, will build the best environment in which your child can grow to their potential.

You will sense the celebrations and pride we share each day with even tiny victories for each child. It is a contagious experience we are delighted to share. But don't take our word for it....come visit. If we are right for you, you will know it!

Who can attend?

  • Children under age 3 who are considered "at risk" for having developmental delays or have an established diagnosis such as Down Syndrome or Cerebral Palsy.
  • Children 3-5 years who have delays and are certified by the Public School System.
  • Children without disabilities, infants to 5 years of age.

Can I tour the school?

ABSOLUTELY! Parents and interested guests can schedule a tour of the school by calling the school at 924-9309 and speaking with our Enrollment Coordinator, Danny Bowman.

When is the school open?

The school operates on a year round schedule, M - F, 7:30 am to 6:00 pm. See current calendar for holidays and teacher workdays.

What are the classrooms like?

Most classrooms are inclusive which means you have children with and without disabilities working together. All classrooms have a ratio of 1:3 or 1:4, teacher:child ratio from 9:00-3:00. The class sizes vary from 6 to 16 children. Most therapies are done in the classroom, when possible.

What does it mean to have a 5-star rating?

A 5 star rating is part of North Carolina's daycare licensing standards. The school is rated on the quality and education of the staff, the school's history with the Division of Child Development, and a developmental observation made by an independent observer.

The center's 5 Star Rating means that the environment will be more conducive to learning, that there will be a higher staff:child ratio and the teachers will be more highly educated.

How can parents be involved with the school?

We encourage parents to have input on their child's goals and to volunteer when possible. We also have a very active parent group named Parents In Touch which keeps our parents involved.

Questions About School Services

What services does the school provide?

Learning experiences are provided in the areas of self-help, fine and gross motor skills, language and communication, cognitive and social skills in order to promote optimal growth and development.

Does the school provide extended childcare services?

The school is open from 7:30-6:00. The educational part of the day is 9:00-3:00 with before and after school day care available. When additional childcare is needed for children with special needs, we can see if space is available. For children without disabilities the hours and fees are determined at the time of enrollment.

What services do children with special needs receive?

Children with special needs receive the following services:

  • Child Service Coordination: Provides assistance to families of children to access needed services such as medical appointments, transportation, financial needs, etc.
  • High Risk Intervention: Provides intense education services to children enrolled in the program by a professional or a paraprofessional.
  • Therapies: Based on each child's individual needs for physical, occupational and speech therapies, these are provided by qualified therapists at the school.
  • Transportation: If a family does not have a car or a way to get their child to school, we provide transportation for children under 3 years of age. When the child turns three, the public school system transports your child.
  • IFSP or IEP: All children have educational plans with developmental goals for the teachers and therapists to work on with the children.
  • Nutritional services: All children receive nutritious meals and snacks. If there are feeding concerns, a nutritional consultant is available.

Questions About the Application Process

How do I apply to the school?

You can print the application listed on this web site and send it to the school. Please send the completed application to:

The Special Children's School
4505 Shattalon Drive
Winston-Salem, NC 27106

Or fax it to: (336) 924-0388

Adobe Acrobat FormatClick here for a printer-friendly version of the application.

Do you have a waiting list and how does it work?

As soon as the application is received your child's name goes on the list. You will receive a letter confirming the application.

What is the cost?

Children with special needs: Families are billed for services based on a sliding scale according to income and family size.

Children without disabilities:

6 weeks - 12 mos.: $140.00 - 160.00/week

13 mos. - 2 years old: $130.00 - 150.00/week

3 & 4 year-olds: $115.00 - 135.00/week