The Kessler Center School

The Kessler Center School is a New York State-approved private special education school offering day and residential placements for students ages 5 to 21 with developmental disabilities. As one of only nine Certified Residential Schools in New York State, it is specifically designed for students with autism, co-occurring diagnoses, and complex behavioral needs. Licensed by NYSED and OPWDD, the school provides a highly individualized care model for students statewide.

The school utilizes a 12-month, whole-child program integrating academic instruction with therapeutic services, including speech therapy, life skills training, and behavioral support. The curriculum promotes emotional regulation, skill acquisition, and meaningful engagement through consistent support across the classroom, home, and community, alongside close family collaboration.

For residential needs, the school features an Intermediate Care Facility model with three 8-bed homes on campus. These residences provide structured routines and clinical support to reinforce emotional growth and community integration. Shared staffing between the school and residences ensures continuity of care, consistent behavior plan implementation, and smooth daily transitions.