Brooklyn Early Childhood Center

A new chapter is beginning in Brooklyn. Discover how Stephen Gaynor School is bringing more than 60 years of expertise to a new Early Childhood Center opening Fall 2028.

BROOKLYN EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

A Gaynor Education, Now Growing in Brooklyn.

Stephen Gaynor School is expanding to Brooklyn with a new Early Childhood Center for young learners with language-based learning differences, opening Fall 2028.

A NEW CHAPTER

More Than 60 Years of Expertise.
A New Home in Brooklyn.

Since 1962, Stephen Gaynor School has helped students with language-based learning differences develop the skills, confidence, and independence to thrive. Now, we're bringing that experience to Brooklyn.

Opening in Fall 2028, the Brooklyn Early Childhood Center will expand access to Gaynor's individualized, evidence-based approach while creating a program specifically designed for the important foundational years of early childhood.

For years, we've heard from Brooklyn families interested in a Gaynor education for whom the daily commute to Manhattan—particularly with a young child—can be challenging. The Brooklyn ECC will allow us to reach more children earlier in their educational journeys and bring Gaynor's expertise closer to the communities we serve.

EARLY SUPPORT. LASTING IMPACT.

Built for the Early Years

The Brooklyn ECC will be a dedicated Early Childhood Center focused on young learners with language-based learning differences.

The program will build upon more than six decades of Gaynor expertise, with individualized, multisensory instruction and our deeply rooted Orton-Gillingham approach to literacy at its foundation.

Just as importantly, the Center will support the whole child—helping young learners develop academically, socially, and emotionally while building confidence and discovering how they learn best.

AT A GLANCE

OPENING

Fall 2028

PROGRAM

Early Childhood

LOCATION

Brooklyn, New York
(More details to come)

FOCUS

Young learners with language-based learning differences
“Early intervention can change the trajectory of a child’s educational experience. We are excited to expand access to the kind of specialized support, literacy instruction, and individualized attention that helps students with language-based learning differences build confidence and thrive.”
—Dr. Scott Gaynor, Head of School

THE ROAD TO 2028

Follow Our Journey to Brooklyn

There's much more to come between now and opening day.

Over the next two years, we'll share updates about the program, our educational approach, the people behind the Brooklyn ECC, admissions, location, and the milestones along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Gaynor opening an Early Childhood Center in Brooklyn?

The Brooklyn Early Childhood Center is an opportunity to extend Gaynor’s mission to more children and families at an earlier point in their educational journey.

We know that early intervention can make a profound difference for children with language-based learning differences, including dyslexia. We also know there is a growing demand from Brooklyn families for specialized, evidence-based early intervention and literacy instruction closer to home.

Our own enrollment experience and research have reinforced that location can be a significant consideration for families. Brooklyn currently represents 11% of Gaynor’s student body, and Brooklyn families account for 17% of declined admission offers. Focus-group research with Early Childhood families also identified location as an important factor in enrollment decisions.

When will the Brooklyn Early Childhood Center open?

The Brooklyn Early Childhood Center is scheduled to open in Fall 2028.
The two-year planning period gives Gaynor time to thoughtfully identify and prepare the appropriate space, recruit and train faculty and staff, conduct outreach to Brooklyn families and professionals, and ensure that the program reflects the quality and educational philosophy families expect from Gaynor.

Where in Brooklyn will the new campus be located?

A specific location has not yet been identified. 

Gaynor is exploring areas that would provide strong accessibility for families across Brooklyn. More information about the location will be shared as plans are finalized.

When can parents/guardians visit the school?

All student interviews are in-person and families and students will tour the school on the same day of the interview. You may also view the school through this virtual tour.

We also offer several virtual Open Houses in the fall and early spring. Please click here to view dates and register.

How many students are in each class?

Our average class size is 11 students, with a maximum group size of 12 and two full-time teachers. Each class includes a head teacher and an assistant teacher or co-head teacher, allowing us to ensure a wealth of support and attention for each child. In our Early Childhood program, Occupational Therapists and Speech/Language Pathologists are integral members of our classroom-based teams.

What support services do you offer?

Students have access to a range of specialists including Speech/Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Reading Specialists, and Math Specialists. When needed, Gaynor specialists join a child in class or work with them one-on-one or in a small group setting. Our team-based approach allows specialists and expert faculty to collaborate, ensuring each child achieves their goals.

Do you have a psychologist on staff?

We have a team of school psychologists who work with students to foster social-emotional learning throughout the school, as well as in small groups as needed. Our psychologists also offer consultation to parents and opportunities for parent education through lectures and workshops.

Do you offer financial assistance?

Stephen Gaynor School is committed to making our individualized education program accessible for all who need it, and we invite any student who needs a Gaynor education to apply. Please visit our Affording Gaynor page for more information.

What schools do Gaynor students attend after they graduate?

Many of our students go on to mainstream schools. Visit our Alumni Outcomes page to see a list of the variety of schools our most recent graduating classes were accepted to.

What is your vacation schedule?

We align with many New York City independent school calendars. Our current year academic calendar can be found here.

Do you offer after school programming?

Yes, we offer a dynamic Afterschool Program that enriches students’ lives with a broad variety of activities – from sports to scientific exploration to cooking to community service and study hall – that keep children motivated and engaged after the regular school day ends. Our program is available for an extra fee Monday through Thursday. Students can enroll in sessions from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. and/or from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.

Is lunch provided?

A nutritious and delicious hot lunch is provided for all students at no additional cost. This initiative exemplifies both our Board of Trustees’ and our school’s dedication to the quality of the school experience and to ensuring equity for all families and students.

Is lunch provided?

A nutritious and delicious hot lunch is provided for all students at no additional cost. This initiative exemplifies both our Board of Trustees’ and our school’s dedication to the quality of the school experience and to ensuring equity for all families and students.

Is lunch provided?

A nutritious and delicious hot lunch is provided for all students at no additional cost. This initiative exemplifies both our Board of Trustees’ and our school’s dedication to the quality of the school experience and to ensuring equity for all families and students.

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148 West 90th Street,
New York, NY 10024
(212) 787-7070
At Stephen Gaynor School, students with learning differences develop essential academic and critical thinking skills through individualized and evidence-based approaches, empowering them to reach their full potential. Students learn to advocate for themselves and others while actively building an inclusive community, a sense of belonging, and a belief in their own possibilities.
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