Special education school for ages 4-22 with learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, small classes
Aldar Academy is a California State Department of Education–certified special education school serving students ages 4–22 (K–12) with severe learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral challenges. Since 1975, Aldar has specialized in meeting the individualized needs of students with learning differences, ADHD, and related disabilities through IEP-aligned instruction and support.
With small class sizes (average 12 students) and a staff where 50% hold advanced degrees, Aldar creates a structured, safe learning environment designed to build positive self-image and academic growth. The school offers a diverse curriculum including music (guitar, keyboard, drums, bongos), arts, horticulture, and journalism, alongside team sports (basketball, soccer, flag football) and student government—helping students develop life skills and social confidence alongside academics.
Most students are referred through the Sacramento school district with no tuition cost to families; private placement is available on a sliding scale. Rolling admissions mean families can apply year-round. Aldar's memberships in the National Association of Private Special Education Centers and California Association of Private Special Education Schools (CAPSES) reflect its commitment to evidence-based special education practices.
At a Glance
TypeSpecial Education School
GradesKindergarten-12
Students56
Class Size12:1 ratio
Est.1975
DeadlineNone / Rolling
Accreditation & Memberships
National Association of Private Special Education Centers
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), California Association of Private Special Education Schools (CAPSES)
School Information
| School Type | Special Education School |
| Year Founded | 1975 |
| Tuition Notes | All students are referred through the school district so there are no tuition costs to parents unless private placement is sought. Private placement tuition is on a sliding scale fee. |
| Total Students | 56 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 7 |
| Percent of Faculty with Advanced Degree | 50 |
| Average Class Size | 12 |
| Grades Offered | Kindergarten-12 |
Admissions Information
| Admissions Director | Daniel Ramirez |
| Admissions Associate | Sally Marr |
| Admission Deadline | None / Rolling |
| Acceptance Rate | 99 |
Student Body Information
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 62 |
Academic Programs Information
Special Education Programs
Learning Difference ProgramsADD/ADHD Support
Learning Programs Supported
Serves all learning disabilities
Sports and Extracurricular Information
| Sports | Basketball · Flag Football · Soccer |
| Clubs and Organizations | Karoke and Mobile DJ Training · Newsletter/Journalism · Photography · Club or Organization: · Horticulture · Landscaping Project Management · Student Council/Government · Yearbook · Arts and Music Programs: · Music (guitar · keyboard · bongos · drums) |
Additional Information
| Classroom Dress Code | Casual |
| School Memberships | National Association of Private Special Education Centers · Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) · California Association of Private Special Education Schools (CAPSES) |
| Religious Affiliations | Nonsectarian |
| School Calendar | www.aldaracademy.org/files/page/2161/ALDAR_CALENDAR_2021_2022.pdf |
| Summer School Offered | Yes |