About AYM

About AYM

AYM is a state-of-the-art ABA school for 5 – 15 years old students. AYM is powered by the Gersh network of schools and is dedicated to setting the standards for excellence for developmental and educational programs.

Together, we are dedicated to empowering the lives of all learners to reach their full potential through educational and clinical services.

Vision, Mission, & Philosophy

Our Vision

AYM’s vision is to transform lives beyond AYM experience to empower all learners to become responsibly independent, effectively interdependent, and successfully integrated.

Our Mission
AYM’s mission is to provide a personalized, safe, responsible, respectful, and collaborative environment to ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge, skills, and core values necessary to achieve their potential.

Our Philosophy

AYM’s core philosophy strives to ensure that all learners on the autism spectrum can achieve their potential and successful integration into society. Our educational model is deeply rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis, personalized instruction, and the multi-disciplinary approach. We value working in partnership with families, professionals, and community to ensure diverse learning opportunities in collaborative ways.

Staff Qualifications

 All classroom instruction is led by NYS certified Special Education (SPED) teachers or ABA teachers while related services are provided by licensed therapists including, but not limited to: NYS Licensed Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP), Licensed Occupational Therapist (OT), Licensed Physical Therapist (PT), and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)/Licensed School Psychologist. In addition, a school nurse is available to provide support for the physical, mental, and emotional needs of our students. In addition, each classroom has at least one faculty that holds and maintains a certification and/or license to remain employed and provide quality education and therapeutic services to our students. Educational supervision is provided by a New York State (NYS) Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA)/Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®).

Introducing AYM Leaders!

 

Mike Hansen
Head of School, AYM

I am the proud father of three children: a 22-year-old daughter currently on a Naval scholarship at the Medical University of South Carolina studying dentistry; a 20-year-old son, also on a Naval scholarship, attending Virginia Tech; and a 15-year‑old daughter who is a high school sophomore. I bring 27 years of experience in education, having served in a wide range of roles including Classroom Teacher, Crisis Team Interventionist, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, Curriculum Director, and Building Principal. I have served as a professional development instructor with extensive experience in restorative practices, peer mediation, anti‑bullying initiatives, social–emotional learning, data and assessment driven instruction, and technology‑based differentiated learning. Most recently, I have served as an Assistant Principal with Gersh at the West Hempstead campus. In this role, I supervised and supported the implementation of ABA methodologies alongside the unique, personalized programs that have contributed to Gersh’s success. I believe deeply in collaborative leadership and in creating safe, nurturing learning environments where children can grow into the very best versions of themselves. I am excited to begin building strong partnerships with our staff and families, working together to ensure every student reaches their full potential.

 

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