The Golden Key is an accredited non-public special needs charter school serving the needs of children with Autism and other developmental disabilities.
Our educational services are available for students from multiple counties and school districts.
As a Jobs and Family Services provider, parents who qualify financially can place children here for subsidized before and after care services.
We are also an Ohio Autism and Jon Peterson Scholarship provider that affords the student's education, intervention and therapy with no out-of-pocket expense.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 114 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Autism, Cognitive Disabilities
Year Founded
2007
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
Last Day of School
Mon. May 25, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
114 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
16%
State avg.: 25%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
15 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
State of Ohio\'s Autism Scholarship & Jon Peterson Scholarship (categories 2-6) provider. No out of pocket expense for families who are eligible for educational services.
Admissions Director
Gina Bannevich
Application URL
Endowment Size
$2 million
School Notes
- School Mascot: Golden Key Warriors
- The Golden Key is a nonprofit, nonpublic specialized Charter school that offers preschool intervention for ages 3-5 for students on the autism spectrum and grades K-8 for students on the autism spectrum and other cognitive disabilities. The Golden Key is the only school in the region that is able to serve students on the autism spectrum and other cognitive disabilities at no cost to families facing these life-long journeys. As the only school who provides quality education and intervention, it is a scholarship based school not a tuition based. It accepts the state of Ohio Autism or Jon Peterson Scholarship for students in the Stark County Region (Stark, Wayne, Tuscarawas, Portage, Lower Summit, and others) or any student who meets the eligibility requirements in the state if need be. These scholarships cover the cost of the multi-discipline approach the school takes on for each student. Because of these scholarships students receive all education, intervention, occupational, physical, speech therapies all in one location. No other provider of these scholarship does this for the community at no extra cost to a family.
- The Golden Key is fully accredited under Ohio Department of Education and Ohio Job and Family Services. The preschool intervention is a Step-Up-To Quality 4-Star ODJFS program. The K-8 school follows Ohio Learning Standards - Extended curriculum requirements. Additionally, staff are certified in SOS Food School Therapy, Social-Thinking, Interoception Therapy, Relationship Development Intervention, behavioral analysis, and life skills. Students also receive art, music, library science and technology to round out the curriculum to support transition of students into society to obtain a quality of life. These various certifications and methodologies are included in the curriculum that each student receives when attending The Golden Key. The Golden Key also offers small class sizes with a 3:2 student to staff ratios. The classrooms are shaped on students' abilities and function levels in academics, behavior and social-emotional.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Golden Key Center For Exceptional Children cost?
The Golden Key Center For Exceptional Children's tuition is approximately $150 for summer students.
When is the application deadline for The Golden Key Center For Exceptional Children?
The application deadline for The Golden Key Center For Exceptional Children is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse The Golden Key Center For Exceptional Children. 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

June 09, 2025
Is It Easier to Land a Private School Job When You're Already Employed?Is it easier to land a private school job when you're already employed? This article breaks down employer biases, networking advantages, and negotiation leverage—plus the latest hiring trends in independent schools. If you’re considering a move, here’s how to maximize your position.

June 09, 2025
How to Secure a Private School Job When You're Unemployed Without the StigmaFinding a private school job while unemployed can be tough, but it doesn't have to hold you back. This article breaks down networking strategies, ways to stand out, and smart approaches to keep your confidence strong. Learn how to turn setbacks into strengths and secure the right opportunity—without the stigma.

June 09, 2025
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed EducatorsNavigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.