New Bellevue Washington Campus Now Open! 
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Blogs, articles, advice and more from the minds behind Gersh Autism Academy
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Protected: Bringing Movement to Life: How Didim Is Changing the Way Our Students Learn and Play
October 15, 2025
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
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Educational Rights in Washington State: What Parents of Children with Autism Should Know
October 15, 2025
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!
October 15, 2025
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
October 13, 2025
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
October 10, 2025
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
September 30, 2025
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!
August 28, 2025
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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How to Work with a Special Education Attorney in NY: Steps for Gersh Autism Academy Parents
August 25, 2025
Going up against a school district to advocate for your child’s education can feel overwhelming. Add in the emotional weight of fighting for what your child needs, and it’s no wonder many parents feel stuck. That’s where a special education attorney can make a world of difference. These professionals understand…
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Understanding Carter and Connors Funding: A Guide for NY Special Education
August 25, 2025
New York’s public education system serves many children well, but not every child. For families of students with disabilities, particularly those with complex or intensive needs, a public school placement may fall short of providing the support their child requires to learn and thrive. When that happens, private placement becomes…
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Understanding Your Child’s Rights: NY Special Education Law
August 25, 2025
When your child is receiving special education services in New York State, knowing your rights isn’t just helpful; it’s empowering. Parents and guardians of children with disabilities are legally protected under both federal and state laws. These protections ensure that your child receives the education, support, and respect they deserve….
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Moving Between Autism School Campuses: Gersh Autism Academy Transition Guide
June 26, 2025
Transitions in education are always significant, but when your child is on the autism spectrum, even a change between familiar settings can require extra care, planning, and support. One such transition occurs when a student completes their time at one Gersh Autism Academy campus—like our Queens location, which serves students…
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Public School to Autism School Transition: Complete Out-Of-District Placement Guides
June 26, 2025
For many families of children with autism, public school is the starting point. And for some, it works – at least for a while. But when your child isn’t making progress, when IEP goals remain unchanged year after year, or when supports are promised but not consistently delivered, it may…
Jose M.
As a parent of an autistic child, I can say that the care and dedication that teachers and staff give to their students is immeasurable. You can see it in the way my son looks forward to going to school every day, and in the growth and progress he has continuously shown throughout the years. Gersh really knows not only how to educate autistic children, but also acknowledge the personalities of each child, and embraces all facets of the student, showing and providing great care, patience, support and understanding for students and their families.
Brit A.
Every child needs only one person to believe in him. In Gersh, the entire team believes. They will find that one spark through positive reinforcement and this child will have confidence. My daughter entered Gersh when she was 10 years old. She did not know how to read. She now reads chapter books.
Jane R.
“Our daughter did not want to go school before Gersh, she was absent a lot. Within the first few months she developed a nice feeling of trust with the staff where she was very willing to go to school. They don’t reprimand or use a reward system they are all just warm and understanding which is what she needs and I think every child needs. Intellectually I see her flourishing because she is much less anxious so she’s able to concentrate better. We feel very fortunate to have found a nice safe, warm, inviting atmosphere for our daughter.”
Anthony M.
“At Gersh we feel like we are among family, like we are at home. We know that our son is comfortable, it is a very nurturing place. Academically he is flourishing and socially he is much more outgoing; more comfortable in his own skin and his surroundings. Since coming to Gersh he is more verbal. He used to give us one word answers and now he tells us what’s going on.”
Donna B.
“The teachers are great, they are able to customize the lessons towards the students strengths. There’s nothing better than seeing the excitement in the air, the smiles, creativeness and teamwork. Gersh gives the gift that keeps giving, “ENDLESS ADVENTURES.”
Jose R.
“You guys rock! I can’t imagine my son attending any other school. Thank you for everything” – Jose R.