For twenty years, Imagine Academy has transformed the lives of children with autism and developmental disabilities while supporting the families who love them. What began in 2005 as a small school created by determined parents has grown into one of the most respected neurodiverse education programs in New York City. Now, the school is preparing for its next and most important chapter yet: a new building designed to meet the growing needs of the community.
Imagine Academy currently operates out of an outdated facility in Brooklyn. Every inch of space is utilized, yet the school continues to face a growing waiting list of families seeking services for their children. Leaders say the need for a larger facility has become urgent.
“Our community has outgrown the current location,” explained founder David Jemal. “A new facility would allow us to expand our programs, serve more children, and continue providing the highest level of professional care and education.”
The new building would dramatically enhance the student experience. School leaders envision a future campus featuring a full-sized gymnasium, outdoor recreation areas, expanded therapy suites, larger classrooms, dedicated sensory spaces, and a cafeteria with a teaching kitchen, all of which would allow Imagine to serve even more students and families. Plans also include expanded after-school services, vocational training opportunities, and programs for students over age 21.
Assistant Principal Raquel Savdie emphasized how important the environment is to education. “We are bursting at the seams,” she said. “A larger, purpose-built space would allow our students to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically in ways we simply cannot accommodate right now.”
What started as a dream among a small group of parents has become a lifeline for countless families. With a new building, Imagine Academy hopes to continue creating happy minds and bright futures for generations to come.
For more information about our new building or available naming opportunities, please contact Elisa Chrem at echrem@imagineacademy.com or 718-376-8882, ext. 127.
