LA therapeutic school for autism/developmental delays (preschool-1st grade) with 1:2 staff ratio
Cheerful Helpers Therapeutic School is a specialized preschool through 1st grade program in Los Angeles, CA, serving children ages 3–10 with high-functioning autism, attachment disorders, developmental delays, and emotional or learning difficulties. Founded in 1958, the school utilizes a developmental, relationship-based treatment approach that integrates educational, sensory-motor, communication, and family systems interventions to support individual growth.
The intimate learning environment features small language-rich classes with a 1:2 staff-to-student ratio, supported by a dedicated multi-disciplinary team of special education teachers and licensed therapists. Beyond academics, the curriculum includes art, music, movement, and yoga, while offering twice-weekly social skills programs for students who are ready. The school provides a wrap-around approach, delivering therapeutic services within the school day and assisting families in locating external resources.
With an average class size of 6 and 99% of faculty holding advanced degrees, the school prioritizes family involvement through weekly parent groups and family therapy sessions. Tuition is approximately $34,000 annually, though some students are funded through school contracts. Admissions are rolling with no deadline, and the school offers summer programs. For more details, contact (213) 387-7252 or visit cheerfulhelpers.org.
At a Glance
TypeSpecial Education School
GradesNursery/Preschool-1
Students12
Class Size6:1 ratio
Tuition$34,000
Est.1958
DeadlineNone / Rolling
Accreditation & Memberships
California Association of Private Special Education Schools (CAPSES)
School Information
| School Type | Special Education School |
| Year Founded | 1958 |
| Yearly Tuition Cost | $34,000 |
| Tuition Notes | Some students are funded through school contracts. |
| Total Students | 12 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 3 |
| Percent of Faculty with Advanced Degree | 99 |
| Average Class Size | 6 |
| Grades Offered | Nursery/Preschool-1 |
Admissions Information
| Admissions Director | Jaclyn Zeccola, PhD |
| Admission Deadline | None / Rolling |
Student Body Information
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 9 |
Academic Programs Information
Special Education Programs
Learning Difference Programs
Additional Information
| Classroom Dress Code | Casual |
| School Memberships | California Association of Private Special Education Schools (CAPSES) |
| Religious Affiliations | Nonsectarian |
| School Calendar | www.cheerfulhelpers.org/news-events |
| Summer School Offered | Yes |
Contact the school
(213) 387-72521986 W. Jefferson, Los Angeles, California 90018
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