Cedarhurst School - Hamden

ACES Whitney Academy EXPLORE & CREATE in Hamden is a therapeutic special education school for students ages 14 to 22 with cognitive, physical, behavioral, language and medical challenges. We are one of seven special education schools run by ACES, the regional educational service center for south central Connecticut, and students come to us from more than 40 participating districts. Our average class has nine students with one teacher, one or two teacher assistants and one-to-one aides as needed, and every student is assigned a mental health staff member. Services include occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, music therapy, aqua therapy, assistive technology, nursing care and behavioral support from on-site Board Certified Behavior Analysts. The program pairs a functional curriculum and high school credits with transition training in employment, independent living and community participation. Students work at paid job sites, a job center and a student-run business. ACES CREATE extends that preparation for 18 to 22 year olds. School life includes therapy and sensory rooms, a fitness center, swimming, bowling, Eagles sports teams, music and art, student council, field trips, a yearbook and prom.

We offer special education PreK classrooms and an integrated PreK where children receiving special education learn alongside typically developing peers. At Alice Peck Learning Center, our early learning programs serve Hamden’s youngest learners and support the development of social and academic skills.

Hamden Public Schools is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment for a diverse range of students, including those with unique learning needs. The district serves children from early childhood through high school, focusing on various challenges such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. With a commitment to holistic development, Hamden Public Schools employs innovative programs and therapeutic methodologies designed to address the specific needs of each student. This includes a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning and community engagement, highlighted by Hamden Middle School's recognition as a institution, which underscores its dedication to creating an inclusive atmosphere free from discrimination. What sets Hamden Public Schools apart is its low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and tailored instruction. Additionally, the school prioritizes strong partnerships with families, ensuring that parents are actively involved in their children's education. The unique combination of specialized facilities and community events further enriches the educational experience, making Hamden Public Schools a nurturing place for every child to thrive.