Mary McDowell Friends School (Upper)

Aim High is a Brooklyn-based preschool program dedicated to nurturing the potential of children aged 3 to 5 with special needs, including those diagnosed with language-based learning disabilities and other developmental challenges. The core mission of Aim High revolves around fostering individualized and integrated academic and therapeutic services, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to thrive. The school employs a child-initiated approach that encourages learning through art, music, movement, and play, creating an enriching environment where both children with special needs and their typically developing peers can grow together. This inclusive model not only enhances communication and social skills but also instills values of empathy and cooperation among all students. With a commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, Aim High stands out for its strong family partnerships and specialized facilities designed to promote emotional well-being alongside educational achievement. Over the past two decades, Aim High has successfully prepared thousands of preschoolers for kindergarten, demonstrating a profound impact on their overall development and readiness for future academic endeavors.

Achievement Unlocked is a specialized educational resource founded in 2016, dedicated to providing tailored support for children who may struggle in traditional public or private school settings. The core mission of Achievement Unlocked is to create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive, particularly those with unique learning needs and challenges. The offerings at Achievement Unlocked include a range of services designed to meet diverse educational and therapeutic requirements. Key programs encompass Individualized Education Program (I.E.P.) consultations, which help parents navigate the complexities of special education. Additionally, the school employs evidence-based methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Orton-Gillingham for reading interventions, and comprehensive speech and language therapy. Occupational therapy and social skills groups are also integral components, ensuring that children develop essential life skills in a supportive setting. What sets Achievement Unlocked apart is its commitment to individualized attention, reflected in low student-teacher ratios that foster meaningful connections and personalized learning experiences. The campus environment is designed to be inclusive and engaging, equipped with specialized technology to enhance learning. Furthermore, the school offers vocational training and summer programs, promoting community integration and preparing students for future success.

Block Institute, located in Brooklyn, New York, has been a pillar of support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since its establishment in 1962. This non-profit, non-sectarian agency is committed to enhancing the quality of life for both individuals and their families. The institute offers specialized programs tailored for children aged three to five years with various developmental challenges, as well as comprehensive services for adults aged 18 and older, including Day Habilitation and residential care within a nurturing environment. Block Institute employs individualized therapeutic methodologies aimed at fostering greater independence, individuality, and community inclusion among its students. What sets Block Institute apart is its low student-teacher ratio, which ensures personalized attention and support, as well as its strong emphasis on family partnerships that empower parents and guardians throughout their journey. With over five decades of dedicated service, Block Institute remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for those it serves.