Who We Are

MDE School is a non-profit private institution dedicated to providing personalized education for preschool through grade 12 students with developmental delays who may not thrive in traditional educational settings. We empower students with developmental delays to reach their full potential through tailored academics, enrichment programs, and life skills training in a supportive, nurturing environment.

Our team consists of experienced teachers skilled in working with children with Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, communication disorders, and various learning differences. Through our unique approach, we support each student’s academic, social, and emotional growth, helping them flourish at their own pace.

A Place to Grow Through Young Adulthood

MDE School takes the stress out of transitioning your child into adulthood. When MDE School students are ready, they can graduate to MDE Vocational Academy, located on our campus. MDE Vocational Academy serves young adults with special needs aged 16 +. The curriculum focuses on vocational, life, and social skills and offers a range of enrichment activities.

MDE Preschool Program

MDE School is proud to offer an inclusive preschool program designed for neurodiverse and neurotypical children ages two to five. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, our program nurtures a love of learning from an early age, setting the stage for successful social and academic transitions into kindergarten.

Why Choose MDE School?

What Makes MDE School a Special Place?

Watch an Interview With MDE School Executive Director Mindy Elkan.

Why Choose MDE School?

  • “Our son is happy! He is a very social guy and enjoys spending his school day with his friends and teachers at MDE. He progressed in reading and math this school year and he is excited to go to school each day. He loves MDE and so do we!”

     

    — MDE School Parent

  • “MDE School is the place for our son. It’s a safe haven in a system otherwise designed to let neurodivergent children fail.”

     

    — MDE School Parent

  • “As a former special education teacher, patience and tolerance are the most important key in the special education classroom. I can truly say that the staff so far has displayed these qualities, and because of that, as a parent, I’m excited to know that Samir’s is in a good place.”

     

    — MDE School Parent

  • “​I love MDE because I feel like the staff genuinely loves and appreciates Claire for who she is and works to bring out the best in her.”

     

    — MDE School Parent

  • “I love that Mindy and the whole staff are responsive to Alex’s needs and always address our concerns if we have any.”

     

    — MDE School Parent

  • “After a tour of MDE School, we did not hesitate to enroll Barnett. I’m thrilled to report that Barnett has had his best school year ever. He is thriving and, more importantly, he is happy. Barnett loves to go to school every day. Since starting MDE, he has been able to meet the educational goals that were set for him. He has begun spelling words, walking up and down the stairs independently, completing puzzles, and communicating his wants and needs on his AAC device. Our family and friends have been blown away by Barnett’s progress in one short school year. We are forever grateful to MDE School.”

     

    — MDE School Parent