A Small School with Tremendous Impact

The Stephen Gaynor School is an independent, nonprofit elementary and middle school for bright students with learning differences. Our school comprises 239 students ages 3 to 14 with a range of learning challenges, from Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) to speech, language, and motor delays. In a comfortable, nurturing environment and with an unparalleled level of personal attention from our experienced staff, Stephen Gaynor students break down barriers to learning, build self-esteem, and bridge the gap between their intellect and performance.

With 50 years of experience in special education and a dedication to continuous improvement, the Stephen Gaynor School has distinguished itself in a number of ways:

• Uniquely supportive – With an average class size of just 11 students and two expert educators, our teachers get to know each child individually and design a curriculum ideally suited to each student’s needs. Challenged to perform at their best while advancing at their own pace, Gaynor students are joyful learners. Our full-time occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists work with students as needed.
• Whole-child approach – We give our students every opportunity to explore their interests and nurture their talents. In addition to the subject areas you’d find in a mainstream school, we offer strong programs in computer literacy and physical education and exceptional experiences in the arts including drama, photography, music and sculpture.
• Pioneering excellence – Founded when the field of special education was in its infancy, the Stephen Gaynor School pioneered the highly individualized, multisensory approach still used today. With an ongoing commitment to research, adopt, and develop the most effective teaching methods, the Stephen Gaynor School remains one of the most highly regarded schools of its kind in New York City and beyond.
• Superb facilities – An onsite sensory gym. Classrooms with special breakout rooms used for group work and extra help. A common stairwell that promotes student interaction. Even our physical spaces foster positive academic, social, and emotional development. We’re currently updating our facilities to expand outdoor space for recreation, increase opportunities in the arts, and enhance our middle school and overall academic programs.
• A family affair – Our familial atmosphere isn’t just something we strive for – it’s literally in our DNA. Passionate about education, the Gaynor family is still highly involved in the school at every level– as teachers, board members, and headmaster. Yvette Siegel, our visionary co-founder, remains as the school’s director of education and interviews every family interested in joining ours.