Our Programs
Autism Life Plan
Full guidance and support in navigating this new world from first diagnosis through all stages of life.
If you’re looking for a specific program, use the navigation menu or scroll through to browse the programs we offer and learn how you can get your loved one on the path to success today.
Quick Links: Education | Therapy | Residential | Support
5 star support services for adolescents on the autism spectrum in transition from high school to college to life. A comprehensive support touching on every challenge from money management, household management, academic, emotional, social and life 101! This is one group of happy and involved young adults living in a community that feels safe, celebrated and loved. Thanks Gersh! The staff is THE BEST!â
Education
Gersh Academy
K-12 School for Students on the Autism Spectrum Ages 5-21
Since opening its doors over 28 years ago, Gersh Academy has become an industry leader in autism education serving students across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. We understand that every child is unique, we create individually customized programs that promote student success at school, in the community and at home. With our unique brand of individualized education and unparalleled family and community support, Gersh Academy continues to set the bar higher for education and success for individuals on the autism spectrum.
- Serving Students Age 5-21
- Regents Diploma Tracks Available
- Social Skills, Life Skills, Academic Skills Training
- Best-in-Class Vocational Training Partnering with National Brands
- Full range of Therapy Support Within the School (ABA, OT, PT, Speech, Counseling, Equine)
- Unique, Individualized Programming in a Collaborative Environment
- Industry-Leading Technology such as VR
Multiple Locations Across the U.S. and Abroad
Interior, Camaceyes Aguadilla, PR 00603 787-200-8684 info@gershacademy.org gershacademy.org
Villa Caparra Guaynabo, PR 00966 787-200-8684 info@gershacademy.org gershacademy.org
Education
West Hills Academy
Private School Grades K-12
West Hills Academy is for students who have an average to above average IQ but are prevented from reaching their full potential due to certain academic, social, emotional and/or physical limitations. Our learners are diagnosed with a variety of learning difficulties such as ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or other related disorders. Students are placed on a Regents bearing curriculum track and are slotted to achieve a NYS Regents or Local Diploma. Through this approach, we bridge the gaps that exist in a child’s educational foundation and help them achieve their next milestone in their academic journey.
- Orton Gillingham Reading Program
- Serving Students of All Abilities
- Regents Diploma Tracks Available
- Beautiful 18-acre Campus Incorporated into Lessons and Academics
- Social Skills, Life Skills, Academic Skills Training
- Full Range of Support Including Behavioral and Social
- Individualized Attention and Teaching Style for Each Student
- Successful Transition of Students Back into Home Districts
My kids have been going to West Hills for years. We love the family atmosphere and the dedication the staff shows to our children. From the beautiful landscape to the exciting activities, this summer home is what my children look forward to all year long.â
Therapy
Ready Set Connect
ABA, Early Intervention, Life/Social Skills, Speech, and More for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
At Ready Set Connect, we are driven to encourage growth and independence in children with autism, so they are provided the best opportunity to succeed in their homes, schools, and community. Additionally, Ready Set Connect offers services, programs and support for the entire family â because we know that when the family thrives, the child does too.
- ABA Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Early Intervention
- Social Skills
- Life Skills
- Family Support
- Individualized Treatment Plans
Therapy
Therapy Solutions
Therapeutic Services for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
Therapy Solutions provides occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy and behavioral support for children on the autism spectrum. Our team works in collaboration with parents to outline a therapy plan that is best suited for their childâs individual needs and objectives.
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Behavioral Support
- ABA Therapy
- Mental Health
- 1 on 1 Attention
Residential
Gersh Experience
Post-Secondary Support Program for Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum Ages 18+
Gersh Experience is a one-of-a-kind supported living program designed for young adults on the autism spectrum who are interested in pursuing college level coursework or vocational training. We take a comprehensive and customized approach to teaching individuals how to navigate the world and reach their highest level of independence. Our program offers students five levels of support â independent living skills, mental health, academics, vocational skills, and social skills.
- College Placement and Tutoring
- Independence and Life Skills Training
- Private, Luxury Apartment Housing
- Community Involvement
- Vocational Training and Job Coaching
- Independently Paying Bills, Maintaining House, Food Shopping, Cooking, and More
- Rich Social Interaction, Including Hosting Dinner Parties and BBQs, Hanging Out on the Town, and More
Support
Customized Programs
Gersh is constantly striving to raise the bar and build unique supports for individuals on the autism spectrum. We offer a number of unique programs in areas across the country designed to âfill in the blanksâ and ensure that individuals on the spectrum have a clear path to future success.
Support
Gersh Summer Program
Fully Encompassing Summer Camp Program for Children on the Autism Spectrum
Gersh Academy, with over 30 years of experience helping children with special needs, has expanded to create the ultimate summer day camp program for children on the autism spectrum. Located on 18 acres of Long Island’s beautiful North Shore, Gersh Summer Program offers children on the autism spectrum the opportunitiy to participate in a traditional summer camp experience while receiving the support necessary to be in a mainstream setting.
- Small Groups and Appropriate Ratios
- Professional Staff with Special Education Experience
- Guided Development of Social Skills, Life Skills, and Independence
- Full Traditional Summer Camp Program
- Full Range of Activities, Athletics, Adventure Courses, Swimming and More
- Overnight and Field Trip Activities for Campers
- Family Nights and Events for the Whole Family
NEW For Summer 2020
Week 9 – Respite Care at West Hills Day Camp
We understand that the week between camp ending and school starting can be challenging for families when your children fall out of routine while prepping for the new school year. That is why we are creating this uniquely designed Week 9 Respite Care, from August 24-28, 2020.
Run by our highly experienced Gersh Academy staff, it will include:
- Camp Programming, Including Adventure, Swim, & More
- Preparation for School Transition
- Social Skills
- Drop Off at 9:00am and Pickup at 4:00pm with Free Before and After Care from 7:30am – 6:00pm
- Self Direction Accepted
Support
Gersh Academy Driver Education
Driving Instruction for Young Adults of All Abilities
The Gersh Driver Education Program is the largest in New York State and has a high road test pass rate that surpasses the national average. All of our teachers are state certified experienced professionals that go through a series of vetting processes and have many years of teaching experience. Our newly renovated classrooms, as well as our state-of-the-art simulator, allows your child to learn in a stress-free environment while utilizing the most up-to-date practice simulations. We offer an extended program customized to allow individuals of all abilities to absorb the material and obtain their driver’s license.
- Largest Driving Program in Suffolk County, NY
- Assitive Technology, such as a Driving Simulator
- âSafeâ Courses in Golf Carts for Individuals Not Yet Ready for the Road
- Flexible Hours and Scheduling
- Safety Training and Instruction
- In-Class and In-Car Hours
- Road Test, Defensive Driving, and More
- Extended Program Available to Help Students of All Abilities