DOE ASD Schools

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NYC DOE ASD Schools

There are several options for families of children with ASD in NYC. The following is a brief overview of the New York City DOE ASD Programs:
Specialized ASD Programs
Intensive K Program (“remedial” program before NEST-K program)

• ASD Nest Program
• ASD Horizon Program
• NYC District 75 Program

ASD Horizon/NEST Application Process

How do I apply for the NEST or Horizon Program?

• In order to apply, the family should contact their local CSE to obtain an application. There is no deadline. Note: if your child is entering kindergarten next year, do this as soon as possible. In addition, you should also apply to non-ASD kindergarten programs.
• You must submit a comprehensive evaluation at the time of the application. This can be done through the DOE or through a private provider, like NYBAPS.
• The evaluation submitted with the application should be current (i.e., not more than one year old).
• Email the completed application and evaluation to: ASDPrograms@schools.nyc.gov

	NEST Program	Horizon Program	District 75
Students	Students on the autism spectrum whose academic abilities are on grade-level	Students on the autism spectrum whose academic abilities are approaching or below grade level	Students on the autism spectrum whose academic abilities are significantly below grade level
Class structure & size	Varies by grade. Reduced sized Integrated Co-Teaching (ICT) class	8 students, 1 teacher, 1 para	6 students, 1 teacher, 1 or more para
Type of Curriculum	General Education (Common Core)	Autism Curriculum Encyclopedia (ABA Program)	Varies
Program Collaborator	New York University	New England Center for Children	Varies
Paraprofessionals in the class?	No	Yes	Yes
Language	Age appropriate except in pragmatic language	Limited verbal (2-3 word sentences with or without echolalia) with mild to moderate days in pragmatic language	Severe expressive and receptive language delays
IQ Guidance	Average to above average	Low average to average (approximately 80-100)	Below average with cognitive delays
Social	Mild to moderate delays in interacting with peers	Mild to moderate delays in initiating and sustaining peer interactions	Severe delays in initiating peer interactions