Advocates for Children of New York has a singular vision: an equitable and inclusive school system where all students receive the education they need to maximize their potential as adults.
We fight for families
For more than 50 years, we have fought beside NYC families from under-resourced communities through a unique combination of services, all focused on protecting education rights and eliminating barriers to success so all students can thrive.
12-year-old Gloria was struggling academically, and was anxious about going to school because she was being bullied. Now that she is in a safe, supportive environment and receiving the services she needs to learn, Gloria is much happier and making progress in school!
"I was in over my head with figuring out ways to best support Abi. I am still amazed how the school and DOE no's turned into yes once AFC stepped in, and I am so grateful Abi will finally have the supports she needs. We are very thankful that AFC not only provided me with the knowledge I need to know, but advocated for my daughter so that she doesn't continue to fall through the cracks."
When three-year-old Julian exhibited difficulty understanding language and expressing himself, his mother sought a special education evaluation. Although the DOE initially approved Julian to receive speech therapy, then they called to say he was no longer be eligible.
Tell City Leaders: Preschool Special Education Services Are Not Optional
As of March 2025, more than 7,900 preschoolers were waiting for at least one of their legally mandated services, like speech therapy or counseling, to begin. Tell city leaders to add at least $70 million in the FY 2026 budget to give preschoolers with disabilities the evaluations, services, and classes they need.
