City Garden School

City Garden School is a K-8 independent school in Columbia, MO that combines a nature-based curriculum with dedicated support for students with learning differences and ADHD. The school's intellectually rich, hands-on approach—infusing art, storytelling, and outdoor learning into every subject—creates a flexible, creative environment where students with diverse learning styles can thrive. With 14 teachers serving 91 students and 90% of faculty holding advanced degrees, the school maintains small class sizes and personalized attention.

The school explicitly offers Learning Difference Programs and ADD/ADHD support, recognizing that neurodivergent learners often excel in project-based, multi-sensory settings. City Garden's emphasis on empathy, wonder, and creative problem-solving aligns well with many special-needs learners' strengths. Extracurricular options include LEGO Robotics, strings, theater arts, and other clubs that support varied interests and learning profiles.

City Garden uses a tiered tuition model ($7,600–$10,800 annually depending on grade level) that incorporates family volunteer hours, making it more accessible. Rolling admissions are available, and 50% of students receive financial aid. For families seeking a progressive, arts-integrated school with intentional support for learning differences, City Garden offers a distinctive alternative to traditional special education settings.