WELCOME TO ABILITIES FIRST EDUCATION CENTERS

Where Every Student’s Abilities Come First

Individualized education and integrated therapies helping students build confidence, independence, and meaningful futures.

Abilities First Education Centers provide individualized education, integrated therapies, and supportive learning environments for students ages 3 through 21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Guided by our mission to support individuals and families in achieving independence, self-determination, and community inclusion, our programs focus on helping students build communication, confidence, and life skills that prepare them for meaningful futures.

WELCOME MESSAGE

As Director of Education, it is my honor to welcome you and your family to our educational community. At Abilities First, we believe every learner brings unique strengths, interests, and potential, and our programs are designed to honor and build upon those qualities each day. Across our Education C...

Across our Education Centers and classrooms, we provide individualized, person-centered instruction that supports academic growth, communication, social-emotional development, and independence. Our multidisciplinary teams—teachers, therapists, behavior specialists, and support staff—work closely together to create safe, engaging, and supportive learning environments where students are encouraged to explore, take risks, and celebrate their successes.

Families are essential partners in this work. We value your insights, your advocacy, and your hopes for your child, and we are committed to open, respectful communication and collaboration. Whether you are just getting to know Abilities First or have been with us for many years, we are here to walk alongside you on your child’s educational journey.

Thank you for trusting us with the privilege of educating your child. I look forward to all we will accomplish together.

LEARN ABOUT STUDENT REFERRALS

Students are referred through their home school districts and receive highly specialized educational and therapeutic services tailored to their unique strengths and needs.

LEARN HOW REFERRALS WORK >

OUR EDUCATION CENTERS

PROGRAMS OVERVIEW

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS
(BIRTH - AGE 5)

Our 4410 Approved Preschool Special Education Programs provide individualized instruction and therapeutic supports for children with developmental delays or disabilities.

Students may participate in:

Center-based special education preschool classrooms
Integrated preschool programs with typically developing peers
Preschool related services including therapies

Classroom sizes are intentionally small, with specialized teaching staff and therapists working together to support each child’s developmental progress.

Placement in these programs is determined through a student’s home school district Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE).

SCHOOL AGE PROGRAMS
(AGES 5 - 21)

Our specialized school programs provide academic instruction and therapeutic supports for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Students receive:

Individualized education plans (IEPs)
Evidence-based instructional methods
Integrated therapies
Communication and behavioral supports
Transition planning for adulthood

Academic instruction is delivered by New York State certified special education teachers supported by trained teacher assistants and aides.

Students are referred to Abilities First Education Centers by their home district Committee on Special Education (CSE) when a highly specialized learning environment is needed.

There is no cost to families, and transportation is provided by the student’s home district when services are approved.

Academic Instruction

Specialized learning aligned with each student’s IEP goals.

Therapy Sessions

Speech, occupational, physical, and behavioral therapy integrated into the school day.

Life Skills Activities

Developing practical skills for independence.

Social Development

Opportunities to interact with peers and build friendships.

Creative & Enrichment Activities

Art, recreation, and sensory activities that support engagement and growth.

OUR EDUCATIONAL APPROACH

INDIVIDUALIZED LEARNING

Every student receives a personalized Individualized Education Program (IEP) designed to support their unique academic, communication, and developmental goals.

INTEGRATED CLINICAL SERVICES

Speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral supports are delivered directly within the school day by licensed professionals.

TRANSITION & LIFE SKILLS

Beginning in adolescence, students participate in programs that support preparation for adulthood, including vocational exploration and life skills development.

COMMUNICATION AND ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Many students benefit from specialized communication supports such as:

Picture exchange systems
Sign language
Tablet-based communication devices
Adaptive communication technologies

These tools help students build meaningful communication skills that support both learning and social connection.

SUPPORTING YOU WITH ABILIBEE!

We created Abilibee as part of our unwavering support as a planning tool to help you become a better advocate. It’s part of our promise to offer the best educational experience possible.

Check out abilibee today >

BIGGER THAN JUST US

SPECIALIZED ED SERVICES

Families and school districts interested in specialized education services can begin by contacting their local school district to request an evaluation.
Our team works closely with districts and families throughout the referral and placement process to ensure students receive the services that best meet their needs.

CONTACT OUR EDUCATION TEAM >

FOUNDATION SUPPORT

Abilities First Education Centers are strengthened by the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community partners who believe in expanding opportunities for students with disabilities.
The Foundation for Abilities First NY supports programs, equipment, and experiences that enhance learning and help students reach their full potential.

MAKE A DONATION TODAY >