Dean Lakes Education Center

Southwest Metro Intermediate School District 288, known as Dean Lakes Education Center, is a comprehensive special education district in Shakopee, MN, dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for students from elementary through young adult levels (K-22). The district serves a wide range of special education needs, ensuring every child receives the personalized support necessary to thrive academically and socially within a nurturing campus setting.

Core offerings include specialized therapeutic services such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Orton-Gillingham reading intervention, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups. The curriculum emphasizes functional abilities and real-world life skills, complemented by career and technical education (CTE) programs for older students and adults seeking vocational training.

With a commitment to low student-teacher ratios and robust Individualized Education Plan (IEP) support, the district ensures personalized attention for each learner. Equipped with specialized technology and offering summer programs, Dean Lakes Education Center provides opportunities for community integration, allowing students to develop essential skills in real-world settings while maintaining a supportive learning environment.