A Legacy of Success: Empowering Generations Through Language and Innovation

At the heart of Tiegerman School's enduring impact lies a profound commitment to nurturing every child’s potential through tailored programs and unwavering support from dedicated professionals and families alike.

Inclusive Education: A Foundation Built on Collaboration

Dr. Ellenmorris Tiegerman, the visionary behind Tiegerman School and Community Services, underscores the critical role parents play in their child's educational journey. According to her, a parent who remains attuned to their child's needs and actively seeks programs aligned with those requirements forms the cornerstone of effective learning. This partnership between parent, teacher, and student creates a dynamic trio that propels progress over time.

Tiegerman School extends its reach beyond Long Island, offering comprehensive services to individuals with developmental disabilities across New York City. Its expansive offerings include day-treatment programs and residential facilities designed to cater to adults with such challenges. With curricula spanning preschool through high school, the institution ensures continuous growth and development for its learners.

Pioneering Curricula: Tailored Pathways to Success

The preschool curriculum at Tiegerman School focuses on theme-based lessons aimed at cultivating essential language and academic skills. Each activity within this framework aligns meticulously with the Individualized Education Program (IEP) of each child, ensuring personalized attention and optimal outcomes. As students transition into elementary education, they encounter the Tiegerman Extraordinary Language & Literacy (TELL) program, which integrates phonics, literature, and auditory processing aids like Fast ForWord to enhance reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities while adhering to New York State learning standards.

Middle school education at Tiegerman emphasizes both emotional well-being and academic excellence. Group and individual counseling sessions complement a robust curriculum designed to meet each student's unique needs. Upon reaching high school, students benefit from programs that not only deepen their academic knowledge but also equip them with life skills crucial for higher education, professional pursuits, and independent living.

Expertise in Language Development: The Core of Success

With approximately 600 students enrolled, Tiegerman Schools place significant emphasis on their renowned language program, which permeates all aspects of their educational offerings. Dr. Tiegerman articulates the belief that language functions akin to a software program, one in which Tiegerman excels as educators of the extraordinary. Their faculty comprises roughly 400 teachers trained in the Tiegerman Learning Method, a pedagogical approach centered on enhancing language acquisition and facilitation within classroom settings.

Each classroom transforms into a vibrant language laboratory where children develop vital communication skills, including questioning and reading. Typically accommodating 12 students alongside two teachers and two teaching assistants, these environments foster intimate yet impactful learning experiences. Many students embark on their educational journeys at Tiegerman during early childhood and continue through high school graduation, benefiting from consistent and specialized instruction throughout.

A Personal Mission: From Family Challenge to Educational Triumph

The inception of Tiegerman Schools traces back to a deeply personal event in Dr. Tiegerman's life. Witnessing her younger sister lose the ability to speak following a childhood accident profoundly influenced her perspective on language challenges and their impact on young lives. Her father's relentless dedication to restoring his daughter's communication abilities by creating a home-based training program served as an inspiration for Dr. Tiegerman's future endeavors.

This transformative experience motivated Dr. Tiegerman to establish schools that could provide similar opportunities for other children facing similar hurdles. Initially beginning as a preschool class with 36 students while she was a speech and hearing professor at Adelphi University, Tiegerman Schools have since expanded significantly. Today, they encompass not only educational institutions but also day-treatment programs and residences catering to adults with developmental disabilities.

Milestone Achievements: Honoring Contributions and Celebrating Progress

As Tiegerman Schools celebrate their 40th anniversary, they reflect on a remarkable journey marked by love, resilience, and success. An upcoming gala scheduled for May 8 at The Inn at New Hyde Park aims to commemorate this milestone by honoring pivotal figures who have contributed to the school's achievements.

Among those being recognized are board member Paul Rosen, representing one of the original families whose daughter attended Tiegerman, and Toya Davis, another longstanding board member whose son was among the initial students. Toya continues her involvement as a parent liaison, bridging connections between current and prospective parents. Additionally, Christine Baker, named Teacher of the Year, and Christine Austin of Tiegerman Community Services will receive accolades for their exceptional contributions.

For those interested in participating in this celebratory event, further details can be obtained by emailing iscalfani@tiegerman.org or contacting the office at 516-609-2000 extensions 312 or 313.