The Institute for Effective Education (TIEE) operates eight distinct educational programs distributed over four school sites. All TIEE schools are certified by the California State Department of Education as Non-Public Schools, permitting them to educate special needs students on contract with local school districts. All of the schools have received high praise from education experts, professionals, journalists, and parents.

TIEE initially garnered its fine reputation by providing special education and services; however, since 1994, TIEE also provides highly successful regular education (K-8) at its Mt. Helix Academy.TIEE now serves over 400 students who represent nearly the full spectrum of learning ability and social competence, from intelligent, typically developing children to children with serious special needs.