From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Families and Friends,

Summer session at BCCS is underway, bringing nearly six weeks of joyful learning. It’s a fun but busy time of year as new skills are developed through hands-on experiences in the sunshine, pool, garden, and classroom.

Every school day matters, and new activities are developed to continue inspiring a love of learning. From expanded hours at Brookville Beans coffee shop to the forthcoming reading series at Wheatley Farms, students are developing confidence and independence with the support of their families and dedicated staff.

The success of BCCS programs is made possible because of you. As federal policy continues to change, I encourage you to help ensure the voices of children with delays and developmental disabilities are heard. Please:

   · Share your objection to prospective Medicaid cuts that could impact essential services like Early Intervention.

   · Voice your concerns about the removal of the special education and civil rights functions from the U.S. Department of Education.

   · Sign up to educate candidates. The mid-term elections are nearly here – and we are seeking to educate candidates on both sides of the aisle about the importance of services for children with delays and developmental disabilities.

Together, we can ensure our students and generations to come are supported throughout their educational journey.

Best regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Building Confidence and Independence Through Music Lessons

John “JJ” Ostuni has always loved music. Now, through weekly piano lessons at Guitar Center in Carle Place, he’s building on that passion one note at a time.

Since late May, JJ has been attending weekly sessions at Guitar Center in Carle Place with Daniel McCormack, Direct Support Professional (DSP). Both share a love of music, making Daniel a natural fit to support JJ during his piano lessons.

“JJ loves it,” Daniel said. “To see him performing—not only learning songs from a teacher but hopping on the piano and playing songs that he’s heard—he’s amazing.”

JJ is naturally musically inclined. He constantly hums his favorite tunes and rocks out to all kinds of music. During the hour-long, one-on-one sessions, JJ  curates a playlist of his favorite songs and works on playing the melody through chords.

Summer Days at Barbara C. Wilson Preschool

Seashells, water play, and conversations about family vacations are all part of the summer session at the Barbara C. Wilson (BCW) Preschool in Woodbury. 

The six-week session, which runs from July 1 to August 11, helps students continue building important skills while exploring curriculum on ocean animals, the beach, and other summer topics. 

“It’s very important,” said Diane Condy, BCW Director. “They need to continue to work on their skills for success.” 

Although the summer session follows a regular school-day routine, teachers make sure there is plenty of time for summer fun. When the weather is pleasant, students play outside on the playground, along with water and sensory activities designed to support their development.

A Magical Morning Concert for Westbury-Post Avenue Students

“Give yourself a big hooray!” Mr. Matt said during his “Matt the Music Man” show. Loud cheers echoed through the Westbury-Post Avenue campus as students smiled, giggled, and eagerly awaited their morning concert to start. To their delight, Mr. Matt performed everything from sing-alongs to magic tricks.

Activities like Mr. Matt support the most natural way preschoolers learn – through play.  

To prepare for Mr. Matt’s visit, the Westbury-Post Avenue team set up a tent and chairs so that students from all four classrooms could enjoy the concert together. With his guitar, Mr. Matt invited students to sing along to popular children’s songs including “Mr. Golden Sun” and “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.”  

Brookville Beans Serving Up Smiles All Summer Long

With summer session in full swing, Transition Services students are once again stepping behind the counter at Brookville Beans to build workplace skills while serving up ice-cold specialty drinks on campus. Following a short break between school sessions, Brookville Beans opened back up on July 7. Students ages 14 and older have returned to learning every aspect of running the coffee shop. 

The shop is now open three days a week instead of two, with an expanded menu.  

“So far, so good,” said Denise Gaughan, Director of the Education Center. “They know exactly what to do. They come in first thing, wash their hands, get their gloves on, put their apron on, get ready to go,” Denise said.

Recognizing Najoya Stewart-Leslie, DSP,
as Employee of the Quarter

Najoya Stewart-Leslie, a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at the Children’s Residential Program (CRP) in Lido Beach, was recognized as an Employee of the Quarter on June 30 for her leadership and dedication to the young men she supports. 

Joining fellow honorees from across the agency, Najoya was honored for consistently going above and beyond in her role. 

“This recognition is very well deserved and earned,” said Stanfort J. Perry, CEO, to the honorees at the celebration.

“Each day, you go above and beyond, not just meeting expectations, but raising the bar, and somehow you all make it look easy.”

Coming Up

Sign Up for the upcoming InformMe Educational Workshop

Personal Outcome Measures (POM) – Tool for Goal Achievement,
Person-Centered Planning

Presented by: Michelle Rudoff, POM, COMPASS

Tuesday, August 11, 2026
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
In-Person @ the Brookville Mansion
189 Wheatley Road, Brookville, NY 11545

Shout Out an Awesome DSP!

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week is right around the corner! Help us celebrate the amazing DSPs supporting the students in our Children's Residential Program starting September 13, to September 19.

Share a story, words of thanks, and or encouragement to let them know how much you care.

Wheatley Farms Catering

Wheatley Farms Catering offers delicious weekly specials! Local to Long Island? Give us a try!

Catering options also available. The Mansion at Wheatley Farms offers high-quality, personalized services for all your catering needs. Situated on a beautiful and pristine 20-acre estate in Brookville, NY, the Mansion at Wheatley Farms offers a timeless setting with modern dishes for any celebration, big or small!

At Wheatley Farms, we are dedicated to inclusivity. We take pride in providing employment opportunities for people of all abilities. We empower people to gain valuable skills in the culinary arts, fostering independence and self-confidence.

Check Out Big Tree Greenhouse & Gifts' Summer Sale!

From citronella to hibiscus blooms, there's always something beautiful to add to your cart from Wheatley Farms. Stock up on colorful favorites to keep your spaces blooming all summer long.

Thank you for supporting vocational training and employment for people with developmental disabilities.