Founded in 1831 as the New York Institute for the Blind, the New York Institute for Special Education is an educational facility for students ages 3 to 21. The school accommodates children who have visual impairments, emotional issues, and developmental disabilities. The school consists of several different programs tailored to the needs of each of these types of children.

Executive Director Bernadette M. Kappen, Ph.D., previously served as the Director at the sister school of the New York Institute for Special Education, Overbrook School for the Blind. She was employed at Overbrook for 25 years and has done extensive traveling throughout the United States, Europe, and China, promoting and advocating education for the blind and disabled. The school is accredited by the National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services.

The school operates four programs, Schermerhorn Program which educates the blind, Van Cleve Program for those with learning or emotional disabilities, Readiness Program which educates developmentally delayed pre-schoolers, and Camp Wanagua, a summer camp for the blind. All education programs conform to the New York State Learning Standards. The school offers both day school as well as a five day residential program for the Schermerhorn and Van Cleve Programs. Each student is given an Individualized Education Plan which lays out a unique plan for each students learning experience. Students receive counseling, career education, learn socialization skills, and life skills while attending the school.

Students participating in the Residential Program are offered homework assistance as well as participating in a Therapeutic Recreation program. The residents also have the opportunity to participate in other activities such as theatre performances, cultural programs, horseback riding, and canoeing.

[This information came from the New York Institute for Special Education website.]