Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where are NYC Autism Charter Schools located?

We have two schools at the addresses listed below:

East Harlem (433 E 100th St, NY, NY, 10029)
South Bronx (1180 Tinton Ave, Bronx, NY, 10456)

2. How can I learn more about NYC Autism Charter Schools?

You may view a virtual open house at any time by visiting our website and requesting https://www.nycautismcharterschool.org/open-houses/access.

In-person open houses for each school are in March and signups become available on our website beginning January 1.

3. How can I apply?

The application window opens on January 1. Families can apply in several ways:

Online: Visit the enrollment page on our website.
Paper Application: Pick one up at either school, or request that one be mailed to you by emailing Jasalyn Ortiz – HR & Community Engagement Manager

Applications are available in English and Spanish (other languages upon request) and you may apply to one or both schools.

The deadline for submitting applications is April 1. If you are mailing in a hard copy, it must be post-marked by April 1.

4. How do you select students?

Admissions Process

Admissions are determined through a lottery system when applications exceed available seats.
A third-party reviews all applications for eligibility once the window closes.
We enroll students who are turning 5 (i.e., would be entering a Kindergarten class).

Preferences for eligibility include:

Autism classification or diagnosis
Sibling already enrolled
Living in the surrounding neighborhood

Lottery Date: May 11th for East Harlem and May 12th for the Bronx. Please register on our website if you are interested in attending either school’s lottery.

After the lottery:

Students are selected at random until all seats are filled.
Remaining applicants are placed on a waitlist and may be contacted during the school year if seats become available.
You may reach out at any time to check the status of your child’s application.

5. My child does not qualify for all of the lottery preferences or is on the waitlist, and their current school setting is not appropriate. What can I do?

Here are helpful resources and next steps:

Autism Speaks – 100 Day Kits

Comprehensive guides on responding to a diagnosis, treatment options, and school supports:

Young Child Kit: https://docs.autismspeaks.org/100-day-kit-school-age-children/
School-Age Kit: https://docs.autismspeaks.org/100-day-kit-school-age-children/

Parent to Parent of New York State

Provides caregiver support and resource sharing: https://www.ptopnys.org/https://www.ptopnys.org/

Contact Your CSE Representative

Ask about suitable school options or specialized programs:

https://www.schools.nyc.gov/learning/special-education/school-settings/specialized-programs