Dear Families and Friends,

Every day, students reach new milestones. These successes in our school community and the recognition of Autism and Neurodiversity Acceptance Month are the result of advocacy by families, educators, and supporters, who shared a vision and took action.

At BCCS, your participation matters and can also shape future opportunities for children with delays and developmental disabilities. One way to get involved is by stepping forward at BCCS’ first-ever fundraising walk, Steps Toward Tomorrow. As New York State budget discussions continue, we encourage you to share your support with elected officials for the important work of 4410 preschools and 853 school-age special education schools.

In less than 3 minutes, you can use our one-click campaign to send to a letter of support to legislators, highlighting the importance of investing in:

• Early Intervention (DOH).

• 4410 and 853 Schools (SED).

• A 4% Targeted Inflationary Increase (TII) to ensure funding accounts for the increased cost of living, with at least 2.7% to invest in everyday operating costs.

• The Careforce Affordability Initiative to support affordable housing, childcare and healthcare for direct care staff.

Celebration is also advocacy. Please tag BCCS in your success stories on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn so we can share and celebrate.

Together, we can continue creating positive outcomes for our students, today and in the future.

Best regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Westbury-Post Avenue Students Build Skills in Classroom Flower Shop

With warm spring days on the horizon, Grace McGinley, Special Education Teacher of the Foxes classroom at Westbury-Post Avenue Preschool, decided to brighten students’ days by opening a fresh-cut flower shop where the children can learn through play.

“I’ve been trying to switch-up the dramatic play area. I really like for them to play with some different ideas,” Grace said. “We’ve done a dentist shop, a vet shop, a bakery, and now a flower shop. It just makes it more exciting for them.”

Making Dental Hygiene Fun at Round Hill Road

Preschoolers in Jamie Ryan’s classroom at Round Hill Road preschool recently welcomed a special guest, Megan Ryan, Dental Hygienist and Jamie’s sister.

Megan’s visit focused on making dental care more approachable while easing the anxiety children can have surrounding dental visits. Through a demonstration, interactive exchange, and activities, Megan shared the basics of good dental hygiene in a way that was engaging and accessible. 

“A lot of children get nervous or scared going to the dentist,” Jamie said. “I wanted to show students that they can be in charge of their health by learning how to properly brush their teeth and what a real dental hygienist looks like.”

Barbara C. Wilson Preschool Parents Association Organizes Touch-a-Truck for Students

Lights, sirens, and plenty of excitement greeted Barbara C. Wilson (BCW) Preschool students on April 16, when they stepped outside the school to find a firetruck, ambulance, police cars, a boat, and even a police dog. 

At the Touch-a-Truck event, organized by the BCW Parents Association (PA), students had the opportunity to meet 14 first responders from five units in their community.

Celebrating the Power of Music at the Children’s Education Center

Sounds of xylophones, bells, steel drums, and other instruments rang out from the Children’s Education Center gymnasium, as students visited the many stations at BCCS Music Day on March 13.

“We wanted an opportunity for the kids to explore all the instruments we have,” said Tonia Iadevaia, Music Therapist. “They’re able to experience everything without the restriction of the classroom.”

Tonia and fellow Music Therapist Sari Pelletier worked together to create fun and interactive stations. Students with a sweet tooth built their very own edible xylophones, while others joined drum circles or experimented with tone bells, xylophones, keyboards, and drums, as well as an “Instrument Petting Zoo.”

Celebrating Passover at the Children’s
Residential Program

Deborah Lapidus, Speech Pathologist, arrived at the Children’s Residential Program (CRP) in Lido Beach with a full tote bag. On her arm was a Seder plate, educational Passover handouts, the Haggadah, chocolate-covered matzah, masks, and puppets to host the CRP Passover Seder.

Congratulations to Employees of the Quarter

Outstanding staff were recognized for their talent and unwavering dedication during the fourth quarter at the Employee of the Quarter ceremony on March 26.

Among the employees honored were Elise Lopez, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA); Susan Capuder, Occupational Therapist; Marjorie Guerrier, Direct Support Professional (DSP); and Mellony Francis, Assistant Manager.

“It takes a special kind of person to do what you do” said Stanfort Perry, CEO. “You show patience, kindness, and creativity in every interaction. You celebrate each achievement no matter how small, and you stand by the people you support during both triumphs and challenges. Through your commitment you help to create an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels valued, encouraged, and welcomed to reach their dreams and desires.”

Join Us Sunday, May 3, 2026!

Steps Toward Tomorrow is BCCS’ first-ever fundraising walk, taking place on the BCCS Brookville campus, this special day will celebrate our incredible children, schools, teachers, and staff—while raising critical funds to make even more possible.

We’re excited to share that we've surpassed our fundraising goal, and we're at over $115,000, and we're still climbing! 

Here’s how you can get involved:

- Form a team with friends, family, or colleagues
- Register today and join us on walk day
- Make a donation to support our mission

Check out our leaderboard to see our top fundraisers and teams—and get inspired to climb the ranks.

JOIN US on June 17, Virtually via Zoom

The Value and Importance of Celebrations and Community Inclusion

Presented by: Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Officer

Wednesday, June 17, 2026
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Virtual (via Zoom)

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.

Big Tree Greenhouse & Gifts Spring Sale

Order spring flowers and plant baskets from the historic Wheatley Farms Greenhouse located in Brookville. 

Wheatley Farms offers beautifully handcrafted selections, including Ageratums, Begonias, Eucalyptus, Marigolds, Lobelias, Petunias, Salvias, Vincas, and hanging basket arrangements.

Every purchase also supports pre-vocational learning opportunities and employment for people with developmental disabilities, providing hands-on experience in horticulture, teamwork, and workplace skills.

You're Invited!

For more than 75 years, the Rose Ball has been one of Long Island's most anticipated gatherings, honoring distinguished contributors and leaders while uniting our community in celebration.

AHRC Foundation Rose Ball
Thursday, June 11, 2026 
Oheka Castle
Huntington, NY