The district offers programs for academically talented and students with special learning needs, as well. Brehm Preparatory School Students with learning disabilities will also find special instruction and curricula at Carbondale's Brehm Preparatory School . This excellent non-profit institution attracts students, ages 12 to 21, from across the nation. Education is delivered through a comprehensive program including academic core studies, remedial learning, social skills development, lifestyle skills, recreational therapy and pre-vocational counseling in a campus setting. Brehm's junior and senior high school programs are accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, and high school diplomas are awarded.
Residential housing is also available to students.
The New School provides basic education for elementary school students through a theme-based curriculum that integrates math, language arts, reading, social studies, science, art, music and physical education. The school brings all grades together throughout the day for meaningful interaction and dialogue. For parents wanting their children to learn in an atmosphere that blends spiritual development with general studies, there are Christian elementary, middle and high schools in Carbondale. In addition to a host of privately operated preschools, the Alice Wright Early Childhood Center, operated by the Carbondale Park District, and the SIU Child Development Laboratory are popular options. At the Alice Wright Center children are taught socialization, self-help skills, decision making and introduced to basic courses.