Special Education

At the Bilingual Bicultural Mini School, we are deeply dedicated to the success of our special education students, driven by the core belief that every learner has the potential to succeed when provided with the right conditions and support. We strive to create an environment that helps each student reach their fullest potential through specialized instruction, adaptive equipment, and comprehensive support systems.

Specialized Training and Instruction: To support our diverse learners, our teachers receive specialized training in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and research-based reading interventions, such as Orton Gillingham and SPIRE. We utilize an Integrated Co-Teaching (ICT) model across all grade levels, where two teachers work collaboratively to design meaningful, inclusive learning opportunities. Lessons are delivered in both small-group and whole-group settings to meet individual student needs. For students who require additional targeted support, we also offer Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS).

Our classrooms are equipped with modern technology, including Smartboards and individual laptops, to enhance student engagement and accessibility.

Adaptive Learning Environments and On-Site Services: We believe physical space is vital to learning, which is why our classrooms are outfitted with:

  • Sensory bins for individual student use.
  • Alternative seating, such as wobbly chairs and seat cushions.
  • Sensory bikes to help students regulate their energy and focus.

 

In addition to classroom support, we provide essential on-site therapeutic services, including occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), counseling, and speech-language therapy.

Dedicated Support Committees: Our school utilizes two primary committees to ensure that each student is working to meet his or her fullest potential:

  • The Pupil Personnel Team (PPT): An interdisciplinary team including guidance counselors, social workers, psychologists, nurses, administrators, and teachers. Their goal is to keep students on track through in-depth case conferences, reviewing data (attendance, grades, and behavior), recommending social-emotional or academic interventions, and coordinating evaluations for IEPs or 504 Plans.
  • The School Implementation Team (SIT): This cross-functional team ensures students with disabilities are fully integrated and supported. They lead initiatives like strategic planning for special education guidance, student advocacy to ensure access to enrichment programs, and early identification of struggling students through collaboration with intervention teams.

 

A Testament to Our Dedication: Performance Over Time: The success of our approach is clearly demonstrated by the academic performance of our students with special needs. According to the 2025 Ranking Report, our Special Education students are performing in the top tier of all New York City schools.

  • ELA Performance: In 2025, our Special Education subgroup achieved a 90th percentile city rank in ELA. This continues a trend of high performance, following a 94th percentile rank in 2023 and a 78th percentile rank in 2024.
  • Math Performance: Our Special Education students also reached the 90th percentile city rank in Math for 2025. This represents significant growth from 88% in 2023 and 78% in 2024.

 

These rankings reflect our unwavering commitment to ensuring that our differently-abled students not only have access to the curriculum but excel alongside their peers within the city's educational landscape.