Top 4 Best Special Needs Schools in Hicksville, New York (2026)

Burns Avenue Elementary School is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students with diverse needs, particularly those aged 5 to 12 who experience language-based learning disabilities and are twice-exceptional. The school's core mission revolves around providing a nurturing educational experience that emphasizes both academic achievement and emotional well-being. Through tailored programs that integrate specialized therapeutic methodologies, Burns Avenue ensures that each child's unique learning style is addressed. With a low student-teacher ratio, educators can offer personalized attention, facilitating meaningful connections that enhance student engagement and success. The school is also committed to building strong partnerships with families, recognizing the vital role of collaboration in supporting student development. Unique community events further enrich the school experience, creating opportunities for students and families to connect and thrive together. Overall, Burns Avenue Elementary stands out as a beacon of hope and support for families seeking a compassionate educational setting that prioritizes individual growth and inclusion.

• Elementary school
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Private school

East Street Elementary School is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment for students aged 5 to 11, particularly those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. The school's core mission revolves around empowering each child to reach their full potential through tailored educational approaches and specialized support. With a strong emphasis on individualized learning plans, East Street employs a variety of therapeutic methodologies, including speech and language therapy, sensory integration techniques, and social skills development programs. These initiatives are designed to address the unique challenges faced by each student while promoting holistic growth. What truly sets East Street Elementary apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention that allows educators to closely monitor progress and adapt strategies as needed. The school also emphasizes strong partnerships with families, recognizing that collaboration between home and school is vital for student success. Additionally, East Street offers specialized facilities designed to enhance learning experiences, along with community events that foster engagement and support among families. This comprehensive approach not only cultivates academic achievement but also nurtures social-emotional development, making East Street Elementary a distinctive choice for families seeking exceptional educational opportunities for their children.

• Elementary school
• Learning differences
• Twice-exceptional
• Private school

First Step Nursery School, located in Hicksville, New York, has been dedicated to fostering early childhood development since 1984. This nonreligious preschool program serves children aged two to three years, focusing on those who benefit from a nurturing and supportive environment. The school's core mission is to equip young learners with essential social and learning skills through age-appropriate educational experiences. With an impressive average staff-to-child ratio of 1-to-5, First Step ensures that each child receives personalized attention, allowing for tailored educational approaches that accommodate various learning styles. The curriculum encompasses a broad range of developmental areas including perceptual skills, language development, reading and writing readiness, math concepts, science exploration, and social studies. Children engage in creative play through activities such as arts and crafts, building blocks, and puzzles moving up" ceremony. What sets First Step Nursery School apart is its commitment to strong family partnerships and open communication. Parents receive regular updates on their child's progress through mid-year conferences and written reports at the end of the year. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the bond between home and school but also empowers parents to take an active role in their child's educational journey. With its focus on individualized attention within a warm community setting, First Step Nursery School provides a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

• Preschool
• Private school

Nassau BOCES runs the Children’s Readiness Center at the Willet Avenue School campus in Hicksville. Its structured program serves children with autism spectrum disorders or PDD through applied behavior analysis (ABA), daily-living instruction, total communication, and PECS. Speech, occupational, and physical therapy round out the center’s multidisciplinary support.

• School
• Autism
• Private school