NYC Gazette

Speaker Carl Heastie continued his annual statewide tour today in Schenectady, joining Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara to tour the future site of Crossroads Center for Children and announce $1.2 million to help complete construction. Once completed, the site will expand the school’s mission to provide children with and without learning disabilities the ability to grow and thrive together.

“All children should have the tools they need to thrive socially, emotionally and academically,” said Speaker Heastie. “I’m honored to join Assemblymember Santabarbara here today to see the school’s bright plans for the future as they continue to expand their incredible program to more children in the community.”

“As a parent of a child with autism who attended Crossroads Center for Children, I understand the importance of ensuring every child has the resources they need to flourish,” said Assemblymember Santabarbara. “My family and I know firsthand how vital Crossroads is for students with autism and their families. I am committed to supporting the expansion of these life-changing services and helping Crossroads expand their facility to support even more young people in the future.”

Speaker Heastie and Assemblymember Santabarbara joined Crossroads Center for Children Executive Director Kelly Young for a tour of the construction site of the school’s new facility. The private, nonprofit school serves children diagnosed with autism from ages five to 12, as well as enrolling both students with general education needs for its preschool and daycare program. Research has shown that integration of children with and without special learning needs in preschool is beneficial for all types of learners and fosters tolerance and empathy. The new facility will allow the school an opportunity to provide services to more children across the Capital Region.