Family Resources

Abilities First Education Centers serve students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other learning, communication, behavioral, and physical challenges. Programs are designed to meet each student’s unique educational, therapeutic, and social-emotional needs.

Abilities First provides educational services for students from preschool through age 21, depending on the program and individual student needs.

Abilities First operates multiple educational programs throughout the Hudson Valley, including:

• Abilities First locations in:
  • LaGrange
  • Middletown
  • New Windsor
  • Wappingers Falls/Hopewell Junction area
  • Poughkeepsie area

Abilities First Education Centers offer approved special education programs that work closely with local school districts and New York State to provide specialized educational services.

Students are typically referred through their local school district’s Committee on Special Education (CSE) or Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE).

Families are encouraged to contact us directly to learn more, schedule a tour, and discuss services. However, placement decisions are generally made through the student’s school district and CSE/CPSE process.

The Committee on Special Education (CSE) and Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) are teams that help determine a student’s educational needs, services, and placement recommendations under New York State special education guidelines.

Abilities First partners with many school districts throughout the Hudson Valley region.

Yes! Families are encouraged to visit, meet staff, and learn more about our programs and classrooms.

Our Education Centers provide highly individualized instruction, integrated therapies, assistive technology, community-based learning opportunities, and compassionate support focused on helping every student reach their fullest potential.

Classroom ratios vary based on student needs and program models, but our Education Centers are designed to provide individualized attention and support.

Yes. Depending on each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), services may include:

• Speech therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Counseling
• Behavioral supports
• Assistive technology services

Absolutely. Students may participate in community-based instruction, recreational outings, vocational experiences, and life skills activities designed to build independence and confidence.

Abilities First helps prepare students for adulthood through transition planning, vocational experiences, independent living skill development, and connections to adult service opportunities.

Transportation is generally coordinated through the student’s home school district.

Families should contact their child’s Education Center directly following the attendance procedures provided by the program.

Abilities First uses communication platforms such as Remind and ClassDojo, along with website and social media updates, to share important announcements and emergency notifications.

Meal availability may vary by program and district agreements. Specific details can be discussed with each Education Center.

Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is the New York State agency that coordinates services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Not necessarily. Educational placement decisions are made through the CSE/CPSE process. However, families are encouraged to explore OPWDD eligibility for additional long-term supports and services.

Families can contact their local Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO) or speak with Education Center staff for guidance and resources.

Yes. As students approach transition age, staff work with families to help explore adult service options, vocational opportunities, and community supports.

We believe strong family partnerships are essential. Communication may include:

• Phone calls
• Emails
• Communication notebooks
• ClassDojo
• Remind notifications
• Parent meetings and conferences

Yes. Families are important members of the IEP and educational planning process.

Teachers and therapists often provide activities, recommendations, and strategies families can use to reinforce learning and independence skills at home.

Student safety is a top priority. Staff are trained in safety procedures, crisis intervention strategies, and individualized behavioral supports.

Yes. Behavioral supports are individualized based on student needs and may include behavior intervention plans, counseling, and classroom support strategies.

Health services vary by program, but nursing and medical support are available as needed to support student health and safety.

Each Education Center page will include direct contact information, directions, and key staff contacts.

Families can follow Abilities First and Abilities First social media channels for updates, events, and announcements.

Yes! Community support plays an important role in enriching opportunities for our students. Volunteer and donation opportunities are available through the Foundation for Abilities First NY.