Best school district for Autism (New York, Union: live in, move to, special education)

[luludebono]

I live in Long island NY, and looking to move to westchester. We have a 3 year old autistic son and want to move to a great school district, with a good special ed program that can address his needs.
The level of services that we currently get in Long Island is very good he goes to an ABA only pre-school and next year he would be going to district where the special ed is fantastic and they have a well established aba program, unfortunately we have to move, My husband's bussiness recently moved to new rochelle and the conmute is getting to much to handle (2- 2.5 hours each way, rarely sees the kids)
We do not know anything about Westchester, heard great things about Ardsley school districts, Scarsdale and Rye (also rye brook) but would like to hear some opinions.
Any help?????

[jyyanks]

Although I have no first hand experience, I know Ardsley is known for their Special Ed program. One of my friends is the school psychologist and another one has a severely autistic child. She moved from Manhattan to send her son to to Ardsley for its Special Ed program. Here are a couple of articles that talk about Ardsley and its Special Ed program and also a link to the school district website with a number you can call if you need more info.

As Autism Cases Rise, Parents Run Frenzied Race to Get Help - The New York Times

How Autism Shaped My Midlife, and Taught me What is Important | Women's Voices For Change

Link to Ardsley School District with phone number

Ardsley Union Free School District

[jyyanks]

More articles and more info for you

A School's Special Embrace - New York Times

Archived: Schools and School Districts Recognized for Outstanding Professional Development

Ardsley UFSD > Special Needs Committee

[momsos]

Since your son is only 3 years old, you are really looking for a great placement at the CPSE level. At this level you will probably be looking for a district with good CPSE chair person. It also depends on the severity of his ASD. There are several great districts for ASD kids depending on severity. I've heard great things about Mamaroneck, White Plains, Ardsley, Eastchester, Bedford, Pelham. If you want options, go with big districts that have fundings for Special Education. It all depends on the level of severity once again. Smaller districts tend to "ship out" more severely affected ASD. Larger districts try to deal with it in house. It all depends on what KIND of services you are looking for.

[DC1]

Mamaroneck has great special education programs.