Best Special Needs Schools in Shirley, New York (2026)

Just Kids Diagnostic & Learning Center in Shirley, NY, is a New York State Education Department (NYSED) approved special education preschool and comprehensive evaluation agency. Serving Long Island families for over 30 years, Just Kids provides specialized early childhood education, diagnostic evaluations, and multidisciplinary therapies for children ages 3 to 5 with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, and speech/language challenges. The school maintains low classroom ratios (including 6:1:2, 8:1:2, and 10:1:2 models) staffed by certified special education teachers and licensed therapists. Facilities include sensory motor labs, adaptive playgrounds, assistive technology centers, and diagnostic evaluation suites. Educational and therapeutic services are provided at no out-of-pocket cost to qualified Suffolk and Nassau County families through the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) process.

• Preschool
• Autism
• Developmental delays
• Speech therapy

William Floyd School District, situated on the picturesque south shore of Long Island, is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive educational environment for over 9,400 students across its 10 K-12 schools. The district's core mission is to provide exceptional educational opportunities that cater to a diverse range of student needs, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. By implementing innovative programs and therapeutic methodologies, the district emphasizes personalized learning experiences that empower students to thrive academically and socially. Unique features such as low student-teacher ratios and strong partnerships with families enhance the educational journey, ensuring that each child receives individualized attention and support. Additionally, community engagement events, like the Teachers' Story Corner at the local library and celebratory ceremonies for graduating classes, further strengthen the bond between the school and its community. William Floyd School District stands out not only for its commitment to academic excellence but also for its holistic approach to education that recognizes and values each student's unique strengths and challenges.

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