My daughter is 15 years old and is diagnosed with autism. She attends the Brooklyn Studio Secondary School. The daily ride into Brooklyn from Staten Island is well worth the trip because of the programs and support she receives. Everyone, from the Principal, Mr. Fiasconaro, to her para-professional, Ms. Phyllis Luca, are wonderful. I cannot tell you how much it means to be able to call a principal on the phone and know that he truly is aware of your individual child. He is quite supportive, and I feel that I could call at anytime and he would listen to any of my suggestions or concerns. Her para is also fabulous. I am very fortunate to have my child placed there and working with such caring people.
I am especially thankful for Ms. Merrill Levy. She has been my lifeline for my daughter Jacqueline. She communicates to me on a continual basis and makes suggestions and recommendations on her programs. She is always looking to find ways to help Jackie succeed. At the beginning of the year, she introduced Jackie to some wonderful students and arranged for her to spend her lunch hour with these great kids. It was fabulous. She did not have to go out of her way to do that, but it is very obvious to me that she really cares about my daughter. Jackie transitioned so well, and is now actually making some friends.
Ms. Levy is truly a special person who makes it her business to oversee Jackie's curriculum. She continually offers me support, and I am actually hopeful that Jackie might graduate with a regular (opposed to an IEP) diploma. If she doesn't achieve that goal, I will know that we all gave her everything possible to that end.
Bottom line--because of these wonderful people, Jackie loves to go to school. She is so proud of her accomplishments. Although subject matter is becoming quite difficult, I am assured that everyone is on top of her progress and issues and will notify me if any changes would assist her. Overall, I am truly sure that everyone at the Studio School is doing their best to help Jackie succeed.
-Paula Delfino
Parent