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From the Desk of the CEO
Dear Families and Friends,
June is a season of celebration across the BCCS community. It’s when preschoolers mark an important milestone—the completion of their early education—while Education Center graduates prepare to take their next steps into the future. We couldn’t be prouder!
For students continuing through the summer, we know the summer season will bring plenty of joy and discovery, from the opening of the Children’s Education Center pool to “Fun Fridays.”
While our exceptional team continues to provide the highest-quality learning environment, we must support them through advocacy. Right now, at the federal level, decisions are being made that will shape school services for an entire generation. Visit the BCCS Advocacy Center and show your support for services dedicated to children with delays and disabilities.
Thank you for standing with us and championing our vision: for every child, a lifetime of achievement.
Best regards, |
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Congratulations to the BCCS Class of 2025 |
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From first steps into the classroom to final walks on graduation day, BCCS students at the Children’s Education Center, Marcus Avenue Preschool, Post Avenue Preschool, and Barbara C. Wilson Preschool have come so far and we couldn’t be happier.
Graduation day is always a mix of emotions. There’s pride and excitement for what’s ahead, but also some sadness as we say goodbye to a place that’s been such a big part of our lives. For students, families, and staff, it marks the end of a meaningful chapter—and the start of a new one, full of new chances to learn, grow, and keep moving forward. |
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Trishta Ramphul, Marcus Ave. Teaching Assistant, Receives The Blanche Fierstein Award |
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| Congratulations to Trishta Ramphul, a Level 3 Teaching Assistant at Brookville Center for Children’s Services Marcus Avenue Preschool, for receiving the Blanche Fierstein Scholarship Award at the 2025 Nassau County AHRC Foundation Rose Ball on June 12 at Oheka Castle.
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The Blanche Fierstein Scholarship was established in 2011 to honor the life and legacy of the late AHRC Nassau Board member and NYSARC, Inc. President Blanche Fierstein by awarding $5,000 annually to a person pursuing an advanced degree in special education.
This award will help support Trishta’s Master's degree in Dual Birth-2nd Special/ General Education at Bank Street College of Education. |
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A Night to Remember at the BCCS Luau Prom |
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It was an evening of smiles and celebration as students from the BCCS Children’s Education Center danced the night away at the school’s annual prom. |
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| Held at the AHRC Nassau Mansion in Brookville on Friday, July 13, the luau-themed celebration welcomed graduates and classmates for an unforgettable night filled with dinner, music, and friendship.
From selecting the luau theme to helping plan the menu, students played an active role in bringing the event to life. This year’s event was another success, with unforgettable moments from the red carpet to a DJ-led dance.
“Prom is one of those times when everyone comes together,” said Denise Gaughan, Director of the BCCS Children’s Education Center. “You can feel the joy in the room—the pride, the laughter, the sense of community.” |
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Sights, Scents and Smiles: Children’s Education Center Students Explore Wheatley Farms’ New Sensory Garden |
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| Joy and curiosity were in full bloom as preschoolers from the BCCS Education Center explored the new Outdoor Learning Garden at Wheatley Farms and Arts Center. At the May 21 opening, students eagerly sniffed and gently picked fragrant rosemary and citronella. |
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They also experienced the pleasure of planting basil, marigold, tomatoes, and other garden favorites. Led by Kim Nistal, Farm Education Manager, students took part in a hands-on planting activity choosing seeds and placing them carefully in color-coded areas of soil. |
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Marcus Avenue Preschool Prioritizes Mental Health This May |
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| To “Bee Positive” and highlight the power of positive self-talk, Marcus Avenue Preschool staff shared and displayed affirmations in bumblebee-shaped cutouts. This and other fun, self-care activities were organized by Lisa Kaplan, a Social Worker at Marcus Avenue Preschool, for Mental Health Awareness Month in May.
Through fun and uplifting activities, Lisa aimed to reduce stigma and create an environment where students and teachers felt comfortable discussing challenges. |
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Advocate Today: Protect NY Early Intervention & Essential Supports
Right now, Congress is considering Medicaid cuts through the Budget Reconciliation Bill — and that puts critical services for children with delays and disabilities at risk. In New York State, Medicaid funds approximately 95% of OPWDD services, including Early Intervention and other essential services. Share your support here. |
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| 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! |
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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. |
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| Big Tree Greenhouse & Gifts Hours
Big Tree Greenhouse & Gifts will be open 4 days per week to meet all of your plant needs! Stop on down to the greenhouse and see what Mel and Sarah have available for sale.
Hours:
Tuesday - Friday 10am - 2pm
Or by appointment - call (516) 423-5329 |
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| Reach for The Stars: Summer Soirée
"Reach for The Stars" is an exciting initiative which aims to raise funds exclusively for the benefit of our students, teachers, and schools. In 2025, our funds will be allocated to two vital programmatic initiatives.
Thursday, July 10 | 6:00PM - 10:00PM | AHRC Mansion / BCCS Education Center Campus, Brookville, NY
Learn More |
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| AHRC Foundation Walk
Join us and an entire community of people committed to increasing opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities on Long Island.
Sunday, November 2 | Eisenhower Park, East Meadow, NY
Learn More |
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