NYC is expensive. Special Education shouldn't be.
The Gatecrashers NYC fights for every child’s right to a free and appropriate public education–regardless of disability, in a setting that’s right for them.
The Support Exists. Access Doesn’t Always.
For students with disabilities, getting the right support can require private evaluations, specialized legal help, time, and a deep understanding of the system.
For families already stretched thin, those barriers can put the right educational support out of reach.
Gatecrashers exists to change that.
From First Referral to the Right Support.
Step 01
Community Intake
We collaborate with trusted community organizations, grassroots groups, and legal clinics to identify students with disabilities in inappropriate school settings.
Step 02
Private Testing
We fund extensive private neuropsychological evaluations to assess how each child’s brain functioning directly impacts their learning needs.
Legal Advocacy
We fund dedicated legal resources to support families navigating the complex Carter/Connors pipeline.
We help families navigate the private school tuition reimbursement process, from intake to advocacy and placement.
Step 03
Step 04
Ongoing Support
We help families understand the process, their options, and what comes next.
What Is Carter / Connors Funding?
When public schools fail to meet a child’s educational needs, families may have options for pursuing private placement. We help parents understand their options.
Carter Cases
Parents cover school tuition up front, then seek reimbursement from the city.
Connors Cases
Families who cannot afford the upfront cost seek direct funding to schools.
Access should not depend on your zip code
Families with more money, time, and institutional knowledge often have greater access to the tools required to navigate complex educational support systems.
Gatecrashers NYC puts those tools within reach for all families.
Carter Cases per 1,000 Students
Start With Eligibility.
We focus our resources on families who need them most.
Income
Household income and participation in qualifying public-benefit programs.
Learning Needs
Evidence that a child’s needs are not being adequately addressed or that required evaluation timelines have not been met.
Commitment
A simple agreement designed to keep legal resources and placement decisions under the family’s control.