Making the decision to admit your child into a special program requires you to consider many issues: the impact on your child; the impact on your family; distance; costs; how and when you'll visit; and your role in your child's life. Because admission is such an important and emotional decision, we do every thing possible to help make the process easier.

To begin the admissions process, call Caryn Andersen to schedule an appointment or to discuss your child's needs. If we all feel that your child is a good fit with The Center's programs we'll ask you to come for an extensive tour. During your visits, you'll meet various staff and tour homes and classrooms and to learn more about The Center. We'll review procedures and do our best to answer all of your questions.

Next, a professional team of Center staff will meet you and your child to determine his or her appropriateness for placement at The Center. If we are all in agreement that The Center for Discovery is the appropriate place for your child we will schedule a final meeting during which your child's strengths and needs will be discussed once again. This will allow the formation of an understanding between The Center and your family regarding the roles of each in education, treatment, the fiscal responsibilities and planning options for the future of your child. This is everyone's opportunity to address any remaining questions and concerns regarding placement. Of course each situation is different, but in all cases, we'll act as your advocate to complete each step and assure a smooth transition into The Center.

If The Center does not have an appropriate placement for your child, we offer an array of individualized Assessment Packages. The packages offer very comprehensive, interdisciplinary assessments that are extremely helpful to parents by identifying the child's strength and needs and detailing specific program strategies. You will then have it to use as a tool for advocating for services for your child, while also serving as a program guide for other schools and CSEs to follow. A more complete sample of what a typical Assessment Package can be found by following the link below and can be arranged through the Admissions Office.

No individual at The Center for Discovery, or anyone applying for placement, shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin or sexual orientation.

Caryn Andersen
The Center for Discovery, Admissions Office
Box 840, Benmosche Road
Harris, NY 12742
(845) 707-8880
fax (845) 707-8926
admissions@sdtc.org