Top 10 Best Special Needs Schools in Brooklyn, New York (2026)

Gersh Autism Academy’s Brooklyn campus serves children on the autism spectrum. The school offers K–12 education alongside transition planning, occupational therapy, vocational training, ABA therapy, and physical therapy. Our programs are designed to support academic, social, and personal development, with individualized education and family support.

Hadran Academy is a pioneering yeshiva dedicated to providing a comprehensive educational experience for children with High Functioning Autism. The core mission of Hadran Academy is to empower students to first learn to live and then live to learn, fostering both academic and personal growth in a supportive environment tailored to their unique needs. Key offerings at Hadran Academy include a well-rounded curriculum that encompasses Limudei Kodesh, social-emotional learning, behavioral development, vocational training, physical education, and general studies. The school employs evidence-based methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to ensure that each child receives individualized attention and support. Programs are designed to address the academic, social, and behavioral needs of students, helping them to navigate life's challenges with confidence. What sets Hadran Academy apart is its commitment to a holistic support platform, where ABA-trained mechanchim work closely with students in small class sizes, ensuring personalized instruction and fostering a sense of community. The campus provides a safe and stimulating environment, equipped with specialized technology and resources that enhance learning. Additionally, Hadran Academy offers vocational training and summer programs, promoting community integration and preparing students for future success.

We provide education and therapeutic services to children with special needs through programs for Early Intervention (birth to 3), preschool (ages 3 to 5), and school-age children (ages 5 to 21). We involve families in the education process and shape our work around each child's needs. Families can explore our program pages for details about early intervention, preschool, and school-age services.

Imagine Academy is a Brooklyn special education school at 1458 East 14th Street. Founded in 2005, it serves students ages 5 to 21 with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities, and also enrolls preschoolers ages 3 to 5. Programming blends Applied Behavior Analysis and DIR/Floortime on a 1:1 student-to-professional ratio. Related services include speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, creative arts therapies, vocational and life-skills training, and social skills training. The school runs a 12-month calendar, including summer services. Intake includes an application, interview, and testing.

IVDU School for Special Education is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students with mild-to-moderate learning, social, and developmental differences. Serving a diverse age range, IVDU focuses on empowering children to embrace their unique strengths and pursue a fulfilling future. The school employs a warm, hands-on, and individualized approach that tailors educational experiences to each child's needs, ensuring they learn and thrive in a way that resonates with them personally. At IVDU, innovative programs such as the Career-Ready Program are designed to equip students with essential skills and real-world experiences, preparing them for life beyond high school. This program emphasizes the importance of aligning students' passions and strengths with practical opportunities, fostering confidence and independence. The school's commitment to excellence is evident in its dedicated staff, who utilize the best clinical and academic strategies to support each student's growth. What sets IVDU apart is its low student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and strong family partnerships. The school also boasts specialized facilities and community events that enhance the educational experience, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere where extraordinary students can truly flourish.

League School is a transformative educational institution located in Brooklyn, New York, dedicated to supporting children and young adults with emotional and behavioral difficulties. As part of the League Education & Treatment Center, the school's core mission is to provide a nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and socially, tailored to their unique needs. The League School offers a comprehensive range of educational and clinical services designed to meet the diverse needs of its students. Key programs include: - **Educational Curriculum:** Compliant with New York State learning standards, the curriculum is delivered by state-certified special education teachers and includes subjects such as English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Health, Social Studies, and the Arts. - **Therapeutic Services:** The school provides essential clinical services, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, social skills development, behavior management, individual and group therapy, and conflict resolution. - **Vocational Training:** Students have access to vocational training programs that prepare them for future employment opportunities. - **Enhanced Curriculum:** Unique offerings such as gardening, culinary arts, and basketball are integrated into the curriculum to promote holistic development. What sets League School apart is its commitment to a milieu treatment model, where all service providers collaborate to support each student's individual needs. The school maintains a low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention and fostering a supportive learning environment. Additionally, the highly trained staff, including licensed professionals in various therapeutic disciplines, work together to create a cohesive and effective educational experience. This collaborative approach, combined with specialized technology and community integration initiatives, makes League School a unique and valuable resource for families seeking the best educational and therapeutic options for their children.

Making A Difference Academy is a premier educational institution dedicated to transforming the learning experience for students with diverse needs. The academy's core mission is to unlock the potential of each student through innovative teaching and a commitment to quality education, preparing them for future challenges and fostering their contributions to society. The academy offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to promote critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. Key programs include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for behavioral support, Orton-Gillingham for reading and literacy development, and specialized speech and language therapy. Additionally, occupational therapy and social skills groups are integral components of the therapeutic offerings, ensuring that students receive holistic support tailored to their individual needs. What sets Making A Difference Academy apart is its low student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention and a nurturing environment. The campus is equipped with specialized technology to enhance learning experiences, and the academy provides vocational training opportunities to prepare students for real-world challenges. Summer programs and community integration initiatives further enrich the educational journey, making it a unique choice for parents seeking the best options for their children.

Mary McDowell Friends School is a distinguished K-12 educational institution dedicated to empowering students with learning disabilities, including dyslexia, ADHD, and language processing disorders. With over 40 years of experience in special education, the school's core mission is to reveal the unique brilliance in every student by focusing on their potential instead of their challenges. The curriculum is academically rigorous and college preparatory, complemented by a rich array of athletics, performing and visual arts, and extracurricular opportunities that cater to diverse interests. Each division, is housed in its own dedicated space within Brooklyn's vibrant neighborhoods, fostering a strong sense of community among approximately 400 students and 226 dedicated faculty members. The school prides itself on its low student-teacher ratio of just 6:1, enabling personalized attention and support from a comprehensive team of specialists, including occupational therapists and social workers. This nurturing environment not only facilitates academic success but also prepares graduates for acceptance into competitive colleges and universities. Mary McDowell Friends School stands out not only for its commitment to individualized education but also for its strong partnerships with families and its vibrant community events that celebrate student achievements throughout the year.

Our upper school on Sidney Place in historic Brooklyn Heights serves grades 9 to 12 at Mary McDowell Friends School, a K-12 Quaker school for students with learning disabilities that began in 1984 as a single classroom in the Brooklyn Meeting House. We serve bright students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, executive function difficulties, NVLD, and language or auditory processing disorders, in classes that average 6 students per teacher. Every upper school student has an advisor and a support team of language therapists, occupational therapists, social workers and psychologists. Teachers use Orton-Gillingham, the Hochman writing program and multisensory instruction, with FM systems in classrooms. Math runs from algebra to calculus, students take four years of Spanish or ASL, and juniors and seniors work with an assigned college counselor in College Seminar. The building has science labs, a black box theater, a tech and media lab, a workout room, a courtyard and a student commons. Students play on Lightning teams in the ISAL, stage two main productions a year and choose from more than 25 clubs and co-curriculars. Tuition for 2026-27 is $90,000, with need-based financial assistance available.

Our Adelphi Street classrooms in Fort Greene focus on elementary students with autism and related needs. P.S. 372, The Children's School, runs five Brooklyn sites. Our Carroll Street site offers an inclusion setting; at Adelphi, we focus on specialized instruction. Talk with us about classroom supports and NYC Public Schools placement at this specific site.

The Connie Lekas School is dedicated to fostering an inclusive educational environment tailored for students with diverse learning needs, particularly those facing challenges such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptionalities. With a mission to prepare students for success in post-secondary settings, the school employs innovative teaching methodologies that engage learners at their individual entry points, ensuring that each child can thrive through varied modalities of instruction. The collaborative efforts of students, parents, and staff create a nurturing community that emphasizes lifelong learning, critical thinking, and responsible citizenship. What sets the Connie Lekas School apart is its commitment to low student-teacher ratios, which allows for personalized attention and support, as well as strong partnerships with families to enhance the educational experience. The school also hosts unique community events that foster engagement and connection among families, further enriching the school's supportive atmosphere.

P141K is a specialized educational institution within District 75, dedicated to serving students with diverse learning needs across five community school sites in Brooklyn. The school's core mission is rooted in the belief that every student deserves in their educational journey, ensuring that each child's unique needs and preferences are prioritized. Catering to a wide age range from Pre-K to High School, P141K focuses on providing a supportive and inclusive environment for students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Key offerings at P141K include a variety of tailored programs and therapeutic services designed to enhance student learning and development. The school employs evidence-based methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy. Additionally, students have access to social skills groups that foster interpersonal communication and relationship-building. The curriculum is primarily assessed using the New York State Alternate Assessment, ensuring that each student's progress is accurately measured and supported. What sets P141K apart is its commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, allowing for personalized attention and individualized instruction. The campus environment is designed to be nurturing and accessible, equipped with specialized technology to aid learning. Furthermore, P141K offers vocational training opportunities and summer programs that promote community integration, preparing students for a successful transition into adulthood.

We are P396K, The Sid Miller Academy, a NYC District 75 school for students with disabilities. Across our six Brooklyn sites, we use center-based learning so students can approach lessons through different entry points and learning styles. Our classroom ratios vary by program, including 12:1:4, 6:1:1, 8:1:1, 12:1:1, and inclusion settings. We help students take ownership of learning through engaging instruction in literacy and math computation. Our school year includes visual and performing arts, the Miracle Morning social-emotional learning program, a comfort dog program, SOARing Eagles clubs, a stations-based multi-skilled model, and Sid’s Daily News broadcast. Students also take part in multicultural celebrations and an inclusion program across Sid Miller sites. Families can contact our main site and work with our school community throughout the year.

Pathway is a specialized educational institution dedicated to empowering children aged 5 to 14 who face language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia and auditory processing challenges. The school's core mission revolves around fostering individual success by addressing the unique needs of each student, ensuring that they not only overcome their learning obstacles but also thrive in a supportive environment. Pathway employs innovative, holistic language approaches within a neurosensory model that emphasizes immersive academic programs and the development of essential soft skills. A distinctive feature of Pathway is its emphasis on collaboration among educators and therapists, ensuring that students receive consistent support tailored to their specific challenges. This collaborative approach is complemented by customized learning plans designed to target each child's core issues, allowing for meaningful progress in a structured yet flexible setting. With an average class size of just 4 to 8 students, the school maintains a low student-teacher ratio, which facilitates personalized attention and daily practice in foundational skills. What truly sets Pathway apart is its commitment to creating a nurturing community where children feel empowered to learn and grow. The school not only focuses on academic skills but also emphasizes life skills such as problem-solving, self-regulation, and resilience. By fostering strong partnerships with families and offering related services like speech therapy and occupational therapy, Pathway ensures that each child receives comprehensive support on their educational journey. In this vibrant environment filled with positivity and encouragement, children are inspired to embrace learning as a joyful experience instead of a struggle.

Reach for the Stars Learning Center is a premier educational institution in New York dedicated to providing exceptional services for children with special needs. Our school specializes in catering to individuals on the autism spectrum, with a strong emphasis on speech and social integration. We are committed to staying at the forefront of the field by incorporating the latest research and cutting-edge techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students. At Reach for the Stars Learning Center, we offer a wide range of programs and services tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Our offerings include Occupational Therapy, Academic support, Speech & Language therapy, and more. Through our holistic approach, we aim to address the diverse needs of our students and help them reach their full potential. Our team of dedicated professionals is trained in various therapeutic methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Orton-Gillingham, and social skills groups, among others. What sets Reach for the Stars Learning Center apart is our unwavering commitment to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our students. With a focus on individualized attention and small class sizes, we ensure that each child receives the personalized care they deserve. Our campus is equipped with specialized technology to enhance the learning experience, and we offer vocational training opportunities to prepare students for life beyond the classroom. Additionally, we provide summer programs and promote community integration to foster social growth and independence. Reach for the Stars Learning Center is more than just a school; it is a place where children with special needs can thrive and shine. Our dedication to excellence and innovation sets us apart as a leader in special education, making us the ideal choice for parents seeking the best for their child.

Rivendell Preschool, located in Brooklyn, NY, is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for children aged two to five, particularly those with diverse learning needs such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The school's core mission emphasizes the importance of building respectful relationships among peers, recognizing that social connections are fundamental to the learning process. Rivendell's innovative CORE Program specifically addresses the needs of children who may struggle with social interactions, equipping them with essential readiness skills to engage and learn collaboratively. With a strong focus on individualized educational approaches, Rivendell offers rich opportunities for exploration through specially designed materials that cater to varying levels of readiness and maturity. What sets Rivendell apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which fosters personalized attention and strong family partnerships. Additionally, the school boasts specialized facilities including a rooftop play area and a backyard greenhouse that enhance the learning experience while promoting community involvement through unique events and training opportunities for parents and educators.

Shema Kolainu - Hear Our Voices (SKHOV) is a dedicated educational institution in Brooklyn that focuses on serving children with autism and related developmental challenges. The school's core mission is to provide a nurturing environment that fosters communication, social skills, and independence for students ranging from preschool age through adolescence. SKHOV employs a variety of therapeutic methodologies tailored specifically to the unique needs of its students, including evidence-based practices in speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral interventions. With a commitment to individualized education plans, the school ensures that each child's learning experience is personalized and supportive. What sets Shema Kolainu apart is its low student-teacher ratio, which allows for more personalized attention and meaningful connections between educators and families. Additionally, the school actively promotes strong partnerships with parents, recognizing their invaluable role in the educational journey. Through specialized facilities and community events designed to engage families and celebrate student achievements, SKHOV creates an inclusive atmosphere where every child can thrive.

St. Francis de Sales School for the Deaf is a nonpublic, New York State-supported 4201 school in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. It serves Deaf, DeafBlind, and DeafDisabled students from birth through eighth grade. Programs include a Parent Infant Program for ages 0 to 3, Early Childhood for ages 3 to 5, and a school-age program for kindergarten through eighth grade. Instruction uses multimodal and multilingual communication, with related spaces for literacy, daily living, sensory integration, and an inclusive playground. Founded in 1960, the school moved to its current building in 1973.

StrivRight/Auditory Oral School of New York works with children who have hearing, speech, and communication challenges. We bring teachers, therapists, and staff together to help children listen, speak, and communicate in everyday settings. StrivRight was founded in 1999.

The Hamaspik School in Brooklyn educates children with Down syndrome ages five and older. We provide a customized curriculum and integrate occupational, physical, and speech therapies into daily learning. Teachers, therapists, and paraprofessionals work together to support each child’s skills. Group therapy and everyday activities, including lunchtime, are also part of the school day.

At The Sterling School, students in grades 2 through 6 with language-based learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, learn in small classes with dedicated, multisensory instruction rooted in the Orton-Gillingham approach. Our small groups let us know each child deeply and build a learning plan tailored to their strengths, challenges, and unique learning style. We believe every child deserves to enjoy learning and feel confident at school. Our personalized approach helps students shift from frustration to progress and from self-doubt to pride in what they can achieve. With daily, dedicated reading sessions delivered one-to-one or one-to-two, students receive the individualized support they need to become capable, confident readers and writers. Founded in 1999 by Ruth Arberman, a parent who saw firsthand the lack of specialized options in the New York City metro area, Sterling supports the whole student. Through speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling, students build the tools to manage frustration, impulsivity, and executive functioning, helping them thrive both in and out of the classroom.

A daily snapshot of school activities, food and important updates keeps Yaldeinu families involved in their child's day. We also use monthly team communication, parent training and weekly newsletters, and bring parents together with the professionals working with their child at collaborative conferences. Sibling workshops and seasonal sibling activities give brothers and sisters opportunities to meet others with similar experiences. Parent Nights Out give parents time for a break alongside the training and opportunities to participate in their child's learning. Our consultative model brings therapeutic support into the day for children with autism and related challenges. Academics connect with sensory-motor development and regulation, speech and language, behavior, vocational training, executive function and nutrition. We use Applied Behavior Analysis principles and one-to-one teaching for individualized, skill-based instruction and behavioral support, with continuing training for staff and families. Students practice academic, communication, movement and everyday skills across those areas. Bluma Bar-Horin founded Yaldeinu School in 2006 after working with families who needed a school that could address several areas of their children's development together. We provide ongoing training and professional development for staff and families within that educational and therapeutic work.