Pathfinder School

Most students access Pathfinder School through their school district's committee on special education (CSE). Contact us to learn if Pathfinder School is right for your student.

"...that each life may find meaning."

Pathfinder School is a distinctive alternative for students with multiple disabilities, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, and autism. We offer day and residential programs for eligible students between the ages of 5 and 21. Here, students receive the individualized support they require to experience acceptance and success. More than education, Pathfinder School is a true community where every member is valued, their individualized needs are met, and reaching their full potential is our goal.

Originally established in 1922 as a two-building school for children with Down syndrome, we are now a 300-acre, not-for-profit organization with enhanced clinical supports to serve students with Autism, Down syndrome, and other disabilities. Located just outside Cooperstown, NY, our community includes a post-secondary program, adult day services, summer camp, on-site businesses, and a research and resource center. Pathfinder Village is a national leader in community-based services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

• Individualized Instruction and Innovating Teaching: With a SMART Board in every classroom, learning becomes an extraordinarily natural, hands-on experience throughout the school day. Our educators create dynamic lessons and present information via multiple modalities. The result is engaged learners who participate in a variety of ways. Here, students gain confidence and a stronger sense of their individual identity.
• Prevocational Program: Our exceptional employment readiness program includes career exploration, on-campus job training, and community-based internships, which teach real-world workplace skills.
• Therapeutic and Behavioral Supports: Students' clinical and behavioral support needs are met through on-site and contracted specialty services that include adaptive physical education, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, and clinical services. On-site nurses support students' healthcare needs. Our behavior specialist designs, monitors, and modifies behavior plans in response to the changing needs of each student. Staff training is ongoing to ensure consistency across environments.
• Residential Homes: When there is a need for more intensive educational services, Pathfinder School can help. In our planned community setting, students receive the attention and behavioral support they need to realize success. Our warm, inviting homes offer a family-like atmosphere where students regularly participate in daily routines. Students refine skills of personal responsibility, organization, self-control, and, just as important, form meaningful relationships with peers, staff, and community members. Outside of school hours, students access enrichment activities tailored to healthy and wellness, art, music, drama, and community participation.