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Mary McDowell Center for Learning, one of New York City’s leading independent schools and resource centers for children with learning disabilities, began the 2006-07 school year with the addition of an early elementary division and the expansion of its new middle school from four to six classes. The middle school, the first in Brooklyn for adolescents with learning disabilities, opened in September 2005.
Mary McDowell Center for Learning is guided by the long tradition of Quaker education which values respect for the individual, peaceful resolution of conflict and a diverse and inclusive community. Located at 20 Bergen Street in downtown Brooklyn, the Center has come a long way since its doors opened in 1984 with five students. Today, 185 students are enrolled, ranging in age from five to fourteen years old and reflecting the diverse ethnic and racial spectrum of New York City. The Center offers youngsters with learning disabilities a highly successful alternative to mainstream schools by providing an innovative program of academic work, enrichment activities and therapeutic support services. Small class size, a highly trained staff and individualized, multi-sensory instruction enable these students to reach their full potential. In addition to a demanding academic program, students benefit from classes in visual arts, music, physical education, dance, drama, library science and computer. The overall curriculum is designed to produce not just academic achievers, but well-rounded, socially balanced children.
To create space for its new middle-school, the Center added a fifth floor to its building. The recent expansion also includes a rooftop greenhouse, basketball court and play area for all students. The middle school, grades six through eight, provides a challenging and enriched program that parallels a mainstream curriculum for 72 students with learning disabilities.
Housed in space nearby, the new early elementary division consists of three classrooms with ten students each, aged five to eight years old. Our youngest students will benefit from an intimate, hands-on learning environment that includes a sensory integration room and added therapeutic support.
Mary McDowell Center for Learning also serves as a resource and support system for families of children with learning disabilities, professionals and the larger community. The Center conducts outreach in several different ways: an annual Math & Science Fair for local children; a Roundtable presentation for professionals, parents and the general public; and the Mary McDowell Teaching and Learning Center which offers extensive professional training to educational professionals and parents throughout the five boroughs.
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