Schools for learning differences in Charlotte, and the ESA+ money behind them

Which Charlotte private schools focus on learning differences?

The federal survey classifies a group of Charlotte-area schools as special education programs, including The Fletcher School, The John Crosland School, Crossway Academy, Cyzner Institute, Philips Academy, Ignite Achievement Academy, Epiphany School of Charlotte and The Halton School. Most of them are on the 2026-27 Direct Payment list.

Our special-needs school list shows grades, enrollment and Direct Payment status for each.

How much can ESA+ pay toward a Charlotte special needs school?

ESA+ pays $9,000 a year, or $17,000 when autism, hearing impairment, moderate or severe intellectual disability, orthopedic impairment or visual impairment is on the eligibility determination. At a Direct Payment School the account pays tuition first, and anything left can buy therapy, tutoring or technology.

Can a student use both ESA+ and the Opportunity Scholarship?

Families may apply for both, and NCSEAA treats them as separate applications. Confirm with NCSEAA how the two would apply to your child's tuition before you plan around both.

The programs reward different things. The Opportunity Scholarship scales with income and pays only tuition and required fees; ESA+ is the same for every income and can follow a child into therapy, tutoring and home schooling.

What paperwork does ESA+ need?

ESA+ needs an eligibility determination from a North Carolina public school issued within the last three years; an IEP alone is not required. If your child has never been evaluated, ask your home public school for an evaluation first.

Full-time private or home school families also sign an LEA release, which pauses public school special education services while the ESA+ account is funded. Think about which services your child relies on before you sign.