Winston Preparatory School www.winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/ new-york Winston Prep serves students in grades 4–12 with learning differences such as dyslexia and ADHD. Its model includes daily one-to-one sessions with a Focus Teacher, alongside small-group academic classes tailored to each student’s needs. Cooke School and Institute www.cookeschool.org Cooke educates students ages 5–21 with mild to moderate developmental disabilities. The school combines academics, life skills, and therapies to support long-term growth and independence. Aaron School www.aaronschool.org Aaron School provides a K–12 education for students with learning, attention, and social challenges. With a structured, supportive environment, the school focuses on building confidence, academic growth, and social- Families exploring independent school options for neurodiverse children should consider: • How does the school adapt its curriculum to meet in d ividual needs? • What kind of staff training and qualifications exist in special education or therapeutic support? • Are services like occupational therapy, speech/language support, or social- emotional learning integrated into the school day? • How is communication handled between teachers, specialists, and families? It’s also worth attending open houses or requesting a private tour, where families can observe how students interact, ask questions about classroom environments, and better understand the school’s values. emotional development. What to Look For
individual needs. These qualities make them an appealing option for families of neurodiverse children who may not thrive in more rigid or overstretched environments. Many of these schools build support into their core offerings — whether through co-teaching models, integrated therapy services, or individualized learning plans. NYC Independent Schools Supporting Neurodiverse Learners The IDEAL School of Manhattan www.theidealschool.org IDEAL is a K–12 independent inclusion school on the Upper West Side. It supports a range of learning profiles through co- teaching, differentiated instruction, and integrated support services, within a diverse
and inclusive community. Stephen Gaynor School www.stephengaynor.org
At Stephen Gaynor School, students with learning differences build strong academic and critical thinking skills through personalized, evidence-based teaching. They are encouraged to become self- advocates and champions for others, while fostering an inclusive community where every student feels a sense of belonging and confidence in their potential. The Gateway School ]www.gatewayschool.org Located on the Upper West Side, The Gateway School educates children ages 5–14 with language-based learning disabilities and attention challenges. The school focuses on building academic and self-regulation skills through small classes and individualized instruction.
Independent Schools Supporting Neurodiverse Learners. How NYC’s independent schools are fostering inclusive, individualized education for every child.
Neurodiversity is increasingly recognized not as a challenge to overcome, but as a valuable part of human variation. Conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences are now better understood by educators, this awareness is shaping the way many schools approach teaching and support. Why Families Choose Independent Schools Independent schools in NYC often offer smaller class sizes, greater staffing flexibility, and the ability to adapt their teaching approaches to meet students’
12 | New York Loves Kids | School Guide 2025/2026
New York Loves Kids | School Guide 2025/2026 | 13
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