The Lead School is an independent alternative to traditional public school settings.
Based in St. Charles, Missouri, The Lead School provides an intensive academic program within a safe supportive environment.
The Lead School offers a special education day school program for boys and girls ages 5 21 who have emotional disabilities, who are on the autism spectrum and/or who have multiple disabilities that interfere with their enrollment in regular school programs.
Students also may have secondary problems, such as learning disabilities, health impairments, attention deficit disorder, and/or speech and language difficulties.
The Lead School is an approved private agency with The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Students are typically referred by their local education agencies through the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked MO School
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: 1-12
- Average class size: 8 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
The Lead School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Missouri for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
Student Body
Total Students
n/a
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
6 teachers
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
85%
Average Class Size
8 students
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Admissions Director
Dawn Franzen
School Notes
- e Lead School strives daily to ensure students are receiving an unrivaled education not only to prepare them for future endeavors but also to challenge them in a way that is as effective as it is enjoyable. These tools encourage students to grasp next level concepts while helping inspire them to realize routine is not always the standard.Teachers at The Lead School use a variety of instructional materials and methods throughout the school day to ensure student involvement and learning. Students have the ability to collaborate with other classmates on a school based level, allowing them to confront and resolve complex challenged-based projects as a team, while also absorbing crucial, lifelong techniques that will be used in and outside of the classroom all while enjoying themselves.At the Lead School, Teachers drive all instruction. All teachers at The Lead School are certified special educators. Instruction at The Lead School is delivered using the Gradual Release of Responsibility method. The Gradual Release of Responsibility method (I do, We do, You do) is a successful approach for moving classroom instruction from teacher-centered, whole-group delivery to student centered collaboration moving on to independent practice. Teachers spend the day providing direct instruction in the core classes: Math, Science, Social Studies and English.
- We currently have two programs: The Keys Program for Autism and The Bridges Behavioral Program.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Lead School's ranking?
The Lead School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Missouri for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for The Lead School?
The application deadline for The Lead School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 8/12/2018
Great administration, faculty, staff, and students. You will not be disappointed to send your children to this school. The Lead School cares about each and every student and meet their individual needs. The students are amazing and a really fun place.
Endorse The Lead School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Early Childhood Education Approaches: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.
Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.
Navigating Private School Finances: A Parent's Guide
This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of private school tuition and financing options. Divided into three chapters, it covers understanding private school tuition, various payment methods, and seven specific options for managing educational expenses. The article aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights and practical strategies to make private education more accessible and affordable.