For students with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences, finding the right school environment can make all the difference.

What does can the right environment look like:

🟡 Classrooms that respect individuality.

🟡 Sensory integration that empowers self-regulation.

🟡 Programs designed to build real communication and connection.

In this episode, Tina McCourt,  joins host Tracey Spencer Walsh to discuss how the Rebecca School’s unique approach, grounded in the DIR / Floortime model, is transforming lives.

From founding one of the first DIR-based schools in NYC to expanding services into Westchester, Tina has spent over 30 years advocating for dignity, understanding, and real choice in special education.

With passion and clarity, Tina and Tracey unpack the barriers families face, especially within the NYC DOE system, and what it truly means to center student needs and parent voices in educational planning.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🟡 The core principles of DIR / Floortime and why they matter for students with autism & communication delays

🟡 Why student sensory needs must be addressed proactively to foster learning

🟡 How the Rebecca School empowers students through strong student-teacher ratios, individualized plans, and family collaboration

🟡 The urgent need for parent choice and why the IEP process often fails to reflect a child’s real needs

🟡 How respectful communication and continuous “circles of interaction” unlock growth and friendships

🟡 What it takes to transition students to less restrictive environments and prepare them for success

"Brains develop over time. The window doesn’t close. Our goal is to help every child move forward developmentally by meeting them where they are, respecting who they are, and empowering them to thrive." – Tina McCourt

This conversation is essential listening for any parent, educator, or advocate navigating the special education system. If you’ve ever felt like the system doesn’t truly “see” your child, this episode offers hope and a vision for what’s possible.