Families in Acworth seeking inclusive educational environments for their neurodiverse learners have found a comprehensive solution just 15-20 minutes away in Marietta. MDE School provides specialized education and integrated therapy services for students with autism, Down syndrome, developmental delays, and learning differences from preschool through young adulthood.
Understanding MDE School’s Approach
MDE School creates learning environments where neurological differences are understood, celebrated, and supported through evidence-based instruction and comprehensive therapeutic services. Our programs address the unique needs of each student while building on their individual strengths and abilities.
What Makes MDE Different
Georgia Accrediting Commission Certified
Our K-8 program holds accreditation from the Georgia Accrediting Commission, demonstrating our commitment to educational excellence and rigorous academic standards for neurodiverse learners.
Award-Winning Programs
MDE School has been recognized by My East Cobb as “Best Special Needs/Learning Differences School” in both 2002 and 2023, reflecting our sustained dedication to serving students with diverse learning profiles.
Comprehensive Age Range
We serve students from preschool through young adulthood, making us the only area school that can support a neurodiverse student throughout their entire educational journey without disruptive transitions.
On-Campus Therapy Integration
Through our partnership with Greater Atlanta Speech and Language Clinics located on our campus, students receive speech, occupational, and physical therapy seamlessly woven into their school day, eliminating the need for separate therapy appointments across town.
Convenient Access from Acworth
Location and Travel
MDE School is located at 1517 Johnson Ferry Road in Marietta, approximately 15-20 minutes from Acworth via I-75 South. Families from the Acworth area find the convenient drive worthwhile for the specialized services and inclusive environment their children receive.
Serving Northwest Georgia
Acworth families join students from across northwest Georgia including Kennesaw, Canton, and Dallas who choose MDE School for our comprehensive approach to neurodiverse education.
Community Connections
Many Acworth residents appreciate our location in Marietta’s East Cobb area, which provides easy access to additional resources and services for families supporting neurodiverse learners.
Educational Programs for Acworth Families
Preschool Program
Our neurodiverse preschool provides early intervention and foundational skill development in a structured, supportive environment where young learners build social, communication, and pre-academic skills.
K-8 Academic Program
Small class sizes ensure individualized attention while our accredited curriculum addresses academic standards through multisensory, differentiated instruction tailored to diverse learning styles.
Vocational Academy
Our vocational academy program provides hands-on job and life skills training, supporting each student in reaching their highest level of independence and preparing them for supported employment opportunities.
Summer Programming
Specialized summer camps maintain skills and provide sensory enrichment, social opportunities, and adaptive learning activities during summer break.
Specialized Support Services
Reading Support Excellence
Our four specially trained reading specialists provide personalized one-on-one sessions twice weekly using Max Scholar, a Science of Reading aligned curriculum grounded in the Orton-Gillingham approach.
Therapeutic Integration
Students access speech therapy, occupational therapy, feeding, vision and physical therapy throughout their school day without leaving campus, ensuring consistency and minimizing transitions that can be challenging for neurodiverse learners.
Enrichment Beyond Academics
We offer PE, art, music, yoga, and monthly special interest clubs including dance, golf, pottery, and Lego building, recognizing that social-emotional development is as important as academic achievement.
MDE Values in Action
Our school name reflects our core principles: Motivation to learn, Dedication to growth, and Excellence in achievement. These values guide every aspect of our inclusive learning community.
Why Acworth Families Choose MDE School
Frequently Asked Questions from Acworth Families
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Most families report 15-20 minutes via I-75 South to East Cobb Marietta, making it a manageable daily commute for the specialized services provided.
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We do not provide transportation services. Many families coordinate carpools or rely on nannies or babysitters to help with school transport duties.
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Our comprehensive age range means students can remain at MDE School from preschool through young adulthood, but we provide careful transition planning and support whenever students move to new settings.
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Receiving therapy on-site assists with attention, focus, sensory regulation/stimulation, and goal continuity.
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Our staff includes individuals trained to support various medical needs, and we work closely with families and healthcare providers to ensure appropriate care and accommodations.
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We use ongoing assessments, data collection, and regular progress reports to track growth in academic, therapeutic, and social-emotional areas, sharing this information regularly with families.
Conditions and Learning Differences We Support
MDE School serves students with various learning profiles including:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Down Syndrome
- Cerebral Palsy
- Global Developmental Delays
- Communication & Speech Disorders
- Sensory Processing Challenges
- Learning Disabilities
- Auditory Processing Disorders
MDE is not just another school but a refuge for families like mine. MDE prioritizes its students and families above all else. It stands as a beacon in this community, one that I am proud to be part of and support.
Who we are
MDE School is the only special education school in the Atlanta metro area supporting neurodiverse students from preschool through early adulthood. As a nonprofit private school, we provide personalized education for students with developmental delays who may not thrive in traditional settings.
Our tailored academics, enrichment programs, and life skills training empower each student to reach their full potential in a supportive, nurturing environment. When ready, students can transition seamlessly to MDE Vocational Academy on our campus, serving young adults ages 15+ with a focus on vocational, life, and social skills.
Our experienced team specializes in working with students with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, communication disorders, and other learning differences, supporting each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth at their own pace.
Begin Your MDE Journey
Acworth families seeking inclusive education for their neurodiverse learners discover that the short drive to Marietta opens doors to comprehensive services, expert instruction, and a supportive community where every student can thrive. From preschool through young adulthood, MDE School provides the specialized environment and integrated support that helps students with learning differences reach their full potential.
Contact us today to take the first step toward educational success for your child. Located at 1517 Johnson Ferry Road in Marietta, we welcome families from Acworth and throughout the greater Atlanta area who are seeking excellence in inclusive, neurodiverse education.
Reach out to schedule a tour, discuss your child’s needs, and learn how our inclusive approach to education can support your family’s journey. Our team is ready to answer questions and help you determine if MDE School is the right fit for your neurodiverse learner.
