In a significant move to support early childhood development, New York City Schools Chancellor David C. Banks has announced a major expansion of autism programs for pre-kindergarten students. Building on previous initiatives, the city will now offer key autism-related services, including speech and occupational therapy, to thousands of 4-year-olds in public pre-K programs. This move comes as the city pushes forward with its universal childcare plan, aiming to provide affordable and accessible childcare options to all New York City families. By extending these critical services to pre-K students, city officials hope to identify and support children with autism earlier, paving the way for more effective interventions and better long-term outcomes.
Mamdani expands key autism school programs to pre-K amid universal childcare push New York Daily News