Welcome to Anniston Academy

Anniston Academy is a therapeutic Category 1 private school in Cookeville, Tennessee, dedicated to nurturing the growth and development of children ages 3 years through 6th grade. We proudly welcome children of all abilities, with a specialized focus on serving neurodivergent learners—including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and giftedness.

​

At Anniston Academy, we believe every child deserves a safe, supportive environment where they can learn, play, and thrive. Our holistic approach combines play-based learning with therapeutic support to foster social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. We operate under Coalesce Social Services, Inc., a nonprofit organization.

​

Our Values

At Anniston Academy, our values are the foundation of everything we do. We are deeply committed to creating a learning environment that is safe, inclusive, and tailored to the individual needs of every student. Our approach blends academic excellence with therapeutic support, making us a trusted choice for families across the Upper Cumberland who seek both a strong educational foundation and specialized services.

​

As a uniquely integrated autism center and private school in Cookeville, we provide personalized learning plans, trauma-informed care, and a staff trained in evidence-based practices to support neurodivergent students. Whether your child thrives in a traditional classroom or benefits from additional support, Anniston Academy offers a nurturing, family-centered environment where all children are celebrated, empowered, and equipped to reach their full potential.

​

Our Core Commitments

Enhanced Security

We prioritize safety through robust campus measures, including surveillance cameras, secured entry points, and silent alarms—ensuring a closely monitored and protected environment for all students and staff.

​

Safety First

Every member of our team undergoes comprehensive background checks and trauma-informed training to uphold the highest standards of student safety, empathy, and professionalism.

​

Family Partnership

We view parents, caregivers, and siblings as essential members of a child’s learning journey. Open communication and family collaboration are central to our mission, extending well beyond the classroom.

​

Individualized Learning

Each student receives an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) designed around their unique strengths, challenges, special interests, and goals—ensuring meaningful, achievable progress.

​

Therapeutic Integration

We integrate therapy directly into the school day, including speech and occupational therapy, behavioral guidance, and social-emotional development, allowing students to grow holistically.

​

Honoring Uniqueness

We celebrate every child’s individuality. Through respect, empowerment, and individualized attention, we help students build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

​

Our Philosophy

Play is at the heart of everything we do. Through imaginative play, hands-on exploration, and creative learning experiences, children develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills that serve them for life.

​

Our curriculum is led by licensed teachers who are passionate about early childhood education and dedicated to supporting each child’s unique learning journey. With a strong focus on STEAM education—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—we nurture curiosity, creativity, and innovation.

​

Alongside academics, our therapeutic services provide the additional support many students need to thrive. With small class sizes and individualized attention, every learner receives the tools, encouragement, and structure they need to reach their fullest potential.

​

Our Commitment to the Upper Cumberland

As Cookeville’s first and only therapeutic private school, Anniston Academy is proud to serve as a beacon of inclusion and excellence. We don’t just prepare children for school—we prepare them for life. Whether you’re seeking a high-quality private school that understands sensory processing challenges, values neurodiversity, and honors the whole child—Anniston Academy is here for you.