New Bellevue Washington Campus Now Open!

Growing with Gersh: Maureen Miller, Director of Educational Operations

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We’re thrilled to celebrate Maureen Miller, Director of Educational Operations at Gersh Autism Academy! Maureen’s journey is a true Gersh story, one rooted in growth, dedication, and heart. She began her teaching career at Gersh in 2014 and has called it home ever since, growing from classroom teacher to Curriculum…

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Welcome Paula Mack, SBL of Brooklyn!

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Paula Mack is a passionate and experienced school building leader dedicated to empowering students, families, and educators through equity-driven leadership. With a strong track record as a Principal and Leading Schools in New York City elementary schools, she specializes in fostering inclusive, high-achieving environments that connect home, school, and community.  …

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Growing with Gersh: Nadege Innocent, Manager of Admissions

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At Gersh Autism Academy, we believe that growth is something we all share—our students, our programs, and our people. Few stories reflect that spirit more than Nadege Innocent’s. Nadege began with Gersh more than 10 years ago as an agency para, quickly moving into a Gersh para role and then…

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Bringing Movement to Life: How Didim Is Changing the Way Our Students Learn and Play

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At Gersh Autism Academy and our Powered by Gersh schools, we are always seeking tools that engage our students while helping them grow, in mind, body, and confidence. This year, we’ve introduced Didim, an innovative, interactive movement system, to multiple campuses, including our AYM in Queens—a Powered by Gersh school—and…

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Students and teachers engaged in a classroom lesson at Gersh Autism Academy. Children sit at desks and on chairs while a teacher leads an interactive activity on a smartboard. The autism-specific learning environment fosters focus, communication, and social skills in a supportive classroom setting.

Educational Rights in Washington State: What Parents of Children with Autism Should Know

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Navigating the special education system can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to understand the laws, timelines, and processes that affect your child’s education. As a parent of a child with autism in Washington State, you have powerful legal protections under both federal and state law. But knowing those rights…

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Welcome April Stavropoulos, Junior Chief of Staff!

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We’re thrilled to welcome April Stavropoulos as the new Junior Chief of Staff at Gersh Autism Academy! April brings a strong background in operations, staff development, and organizational planning — all with a focus on building systems that help both students and staff succeed. Throughout her career, April has focused…

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Growing with Gersh: Celeste Gagliardi, Chief Education Officer

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We’re thrilled to share that Celeste Gagliardi has been promoted to Chief Education Officer at Gersh Autism Academy. Celeste has been a part of Gersh for over a decade, beginning her journey in 2012 as Executive Director and Principal. Under her leadership, Gersh Autism Academy West Hempstead campus grew from…

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Walking Together for a Brighter Future: Gersh Autism Academy at the Autism Speaks Walk

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Pier 16 turned yellow this weekend! The Gersh Autism Academy team showed up in full force at the Autism Speaks Empower Walk 5K, walking together with heart, pride, and purpose to support the autism community. Decked out in bright yellow shirts that read “We Have Heart,” matching sunglasses, and branded…

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New School Year, New Opportunities: Celebrating Growth at Gersh Autism Academy

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As we begin the 2025–2026 school year, we’re excited to share some important leadership updates and celebrate the incredible growth happening across our Gersh community. These changes reflect both the dedication of longtime team members and the addition of new leaders who bring fresh expertise and passion to our mission….

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Welcome Back, Lisa Consolo!

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We’re thrilled to introduce Lisa Consolo, the new School Building Leader for our West Hempstead and Hempstead campuses. Lisa’s connection to special education began early, inspired by her mother’s work as a special educator and deepened through years of volunteering with the Special Olympics. Over the course of her career,…

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