Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary

An Applied Behavior Analysis Program for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Eligibility criteria:
Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary (BBF) accepts children between 5 and 12 years of age who reside in the five New York City boroughs. Students must be deferred by the CBST (Central Based Support Team) to a Non-Public (NPS) school by the New York City Department of Education. Our school is approved by the New York State Department of Education for the following classifications: Autism, Multiple Disabilities, Emotional Disability, Learning Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities and Other Health Impaired.

Principal: Denise Polanco-Nieves
Address: 2335 Gerritsen Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11229
Phone: 718-409-1450
School Hours: M-F 8:45 to 2:15

Video: School Introduction

Cost of Services

There are no out-of-pocket expenses for families to enroll their child at BBF. Tuition is paid for by the school district at a rate set by New York State. However, we do have the ability to accept and admit children by means of private contract.

Educational Programming

Educational programming is designed to address students’ individualized learning needs in one of the follow class ratios (# of students: teacher: # of assistants):

• 8:1:4
• 8:1:2
• 8:1:1
• 10:1:2

The school aims to help students achieve the level of functioning that will allow them to transition to less restrictive environments.

Curriculums Offered at BBF

• Strategies for Teaching Based on Autism Research (STAR) 
• Fountas & Pinnell for Literacy
• My Math
• Amplify Science 
• Collins Writing Program 
• PNW Boces Integrated Social Studies 
• Social / Emotional Learning:
  • Rethink SEL 
  • Vizzle 
  • Social Learning and Emotional Regulation (SOLER)

Our behavior trainers utilize NYS Next Generation Learning Standards, IEP Goals, benchmark assessments, and STAR learning profiles (if applicable) to appropriately develop individualized student learning objectives for real-world readiness.

Assessments

Beginning at the 3^rd grade level (as per chronological age) students at BBF are assessed using either standardized or New York State Alternate Assessments (NYSAA).

Strategies, Programming, and Instructional Methods at BBF May Include

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
• Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices
• Assistive Technology
• Sensory Integration
• Technology (computers and Promethean Board in every classroom)

Within Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary, the following services are provided

• Screenings for potential students
• Parent Counseling and Training (PCAT) 60 minutes monthly
• Monthly Parent Clinics

To address all aspects of the whole child, our support staff at BBF include

• Behavior Trainer (Special Education Teacher)
• Behavior Trainer Assistant (Teacher Assistant)
• 1:1 Aide (Paraprofessional)
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
• Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
• School Psychologist
• Social Worker
• Music Education Teacher
• Art Education Teacher
• Physical Education Teacher
• Communication and Language Development Therapist
• Speech and Language Pathology Supervisor
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
• Hearing Education Services
• Registered Nurse

Enrichment

In addition to academic skills, BBF provides their students with the following enrichment opportunities:

• Field trips to support thematic learning.
• Winter and Spring Concerts
• Art show
• Science Fair
• Boys Club
• Girls Club
• Movement-Based Learning

Positive Behavioral Supports and Strategies

At BBF, each instructional team utilizes a classroom support plan based on the management needs of their students. In addition, Help Understanding Support & Guidance (HUGS/HUGS+) is an AHRC NYC developed curriculum that trains staff on positive approaches to challenging behaviors. 

Parent and Teacher Organization (PTO)

BBF has a strong and very active PTO that gives our parents and teachers the opportunity to work together to supplement and enrich the educational experiences of our students. Fundraising proceeds have funded the following:

• Graduation Trips
• School Dances
• Computers
• Sensory Corners
• Art shows
• A/V equipment
• End of school year celebrations
• Equipment/supplies for therapists
• Halloween Festivities
• Portable document scanners
• Science fairs
• Holiday presents for students