Giving Every Child a Voice Unlocking potential through communication, education, and care. At Tiegerman, we believe language is the key to learning and life. For 40 years, our mission of Teaching the Extraordinary has empowered children and adults with autism, developmental disabilities, and language-based learning challenges to find their voice, discover their purpose, and thrive in a world that often overlooks them. Founded in 1985 by Dr. Ellenmorris Tiegerman with just 36 preschoolers, Tiegerman has grown into a dynamic network of schools and community programs across Queens, Long Island, NYC, and Westchester County—serving hundreds of students and adults every year. From preschool through adulthood, Tiegerman provides a lifelong continuum of care for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and language-based learning challenges. Our mission is to support every stage of growth—from the early days of language development to independent living and meaningful employment. At Tiegerman Schools, we serve students from preschool through high school with language-based, individualized education rooted in the Tiegerman Learning Method. Our classrooms are designed to build communication, confidence, and academic success, supported by specialized speech and occupational therapies. As students progress, they benefit from real-world learning opportunities through internships with partners like Starbucks and PVH (Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger), helping bridge the gap between school and adult life. Beyond graduation, Tiegerman Community Services (TCS) offers a robust range of adult programs that foster independence, inclusion, and personal growth. Our vocational training and job coaching programs help adults develop practical skills and secure meaningful employment, while Day and Community Habilitation programs focus on life skills, social development, and active participation in the broader community. For those who need additional support, our residential services provide safe, nurturing living environments that promote dignity, autonomy, and a strong sense of belonging. The Tiegerman mission of “teaching the extraordinary” reflects the organization’s goal to substantively transform the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities from preschool throughout adulthood. We are committed to providing an enduring opportunity for exceptional instruction, education, and support to ensure that the children and adults that we serve achieve their potential in life. We believe that each individual is extraordinary and through our extraordinary efforts they will achieve a more independent and successful future. Together, Tiegerman Schools and TCS reflect our unwavering belief that every individual—regardless of age or ability—deserves a voice, a future, and the opportunity to thrive. Please click on the Read More link to learn more about Tiegerman and see videos of our work in progress.