Students explore both the school and community to develop abilities to engage in meaningful academic and vocational skills, character education, positive social interactions, and leisure/recreational skills.
We strive to increase the independence of every student so that when they enter the world beyond these walls, they continue to blossom and lead productive lives that are full of worth and meaning.
At St. Matt’s we honor the abilities and individuality of every learner, and believe that all of our students can reach their full potential.
At St. Matt’s, magical things happen.
This program provides a highly structured site-based classroom environment designed primarily for students with autism spectrum disorders at the middle and high school levels for New York State Alternately Assessed students. Instructional methodology includes the applications of structured teaching and Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) that have demonstrated effective outcomes in the school environment. Specialized clinical consultation is provided for both structured teaching and ABA classes. In addition to academic outcomes, the development of appropriate communication, social and behavioral skills are stressed.
We currently offer alternately assessed AIIM classes at St. Matt's at the middle and high school level.
CoSer 203.100
Student Teacher Ratio 8:1:2
Included Related Services:
*Speech/Language Services Group (middle school only) 1x30 per week
*Counseling services for Group & Transitional Services
*Consultant Occupational Therapy
*Consultant Speech and Language Services
*Consultant Psychiatric Services
*Parent Training
Direct OT, PT, nursing, speech, counseling (additional) or other related services as per student IEP are billed to districts in addition to tuition costs.
Career Training:
Where appropriate, high school students who are alternately assessed (NYSAA) may attend half day career preparation programs, to meet the requirements for attaining the Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential (SKILLS).This program is offered through the Center for Career Services, at no additional charge to the district
Districts are responsible for providing transportation services for students to be able to attend programs located at the Career Services Center in Valhalla. Southern Westchester BOCES can provide transportation services for a fee that would be billed separately to participating districts.
This program is designed to meet the needs of students who are determined by their CSE to be alternately assessed (NYSAA). The TSP/DD Program facilitates social/emotional/behavioral skills necessary for students with developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges to function successfully in home, school and community environments. Functional academics and specialized instruction in academics are emphasized. At the secondary level, the program provides students with transition supports, career awareness and services and vocational experiences and skills necessary for students to attain the Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential (SACC).
We currently offer TSP-DD classes at St. Matt's at the high school level.
CoSer 231.100
Student Teacher Ratio 8:1:1
Included Related Services
* Psychiatric Consultant Services
* Counseling Services 1x30 group per week
* Consultant Occupational Therapy
* Consultant Speech and Language Services
* Consultant Guidance Counselor
Direct OT, PT, nursing, speech, counseling (additional) or other related services as per student IEP are billed to districts in addition to tuition costs.
Career Training
Where appropriate, high school students who are alternately assessed (NYSAA) may attend half day career preparation programs. This program is offered through the Center for Career Services, at no additional charge to the district
Districts are responsible for providing transportation services for students to be able to attend programs located at the Career Services Center in Valhalla. Southern Westchester BOCES can provide transportation services for a fee that would be billed separately to participating districts.
This program is offered to students who require small group instruction in a therapeutic setting. Students in this program primarily present with mental health challenges that significantly interfere with the students' ability to be educated and supported within a typical general education classroom environment. Students' needs are met through highly structured classroom settings with counseling and instructional supports. At the secondary level, the program provides students with transition services and supports.
CAD Grades 6-12 CoSer 230.100
Student Teacher Ratio 12:1:1
Students in Ms. Patrice Cookes class at St. Matts with a few additional friends from Ms. Karen Walker's class, visit our local Trader Joe's. Community exploration and integration is a key component of our program.
The 2025–2026 school year began with great excitement at St. Matthew's School, where students were warmly welcomed by their classroom teams, service providers, and Principal Diana Dinzey. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and joy as both new and returning students arrived, ready to begin another year of learning and growth.
Several new students from the Rye Lake Lower Campus joined the St. Matthew's community for the very first time. Their transition marks an important step in their educational journey, as St. Matthew's offers a variety of vocational and community integration opportunities that will help them build independence and real-world skills.
We are also thrilled to welcome veteran teacher, Ms. Karen Walker, to the St. Matthew's team. Ms. Walker now leads one of our High School AIIM classes, bringing her experience, dedication, and warm spirit to her new students. Her presence is already helping to shape a nurturing and engaging classroom environment.
The first days at St. Matthew's were a true reflection of what lies ahead: a school year filled with opportunity, meaningful connections, and a strong commitment to student success.
On Friday, May 30th, St. Matts celebrated our inaugural Field Day at Pierson Park in Tarrytown. Students enjoyed various activities, including yoga with Coach Sarah, a musical celebration with Mr. R, our music teacher, and lots of fun field games. The students and staff also enjoyed a delicious barbecue lunch! We can't wait to have Field Day again next year!
At the St. Matthew’s School 2025 Graduation Ceremony on June 10, pride and joy filled the Luther Hall auditorium as families, staff, district leaders, and community partners gathered to honor a remarkable group of seven students. “These are not just graduates — they are bright stars, each with a powerful story and a beautiful future,” Ms. Dinzey said.
Southern Westchester BOCES
Center for Special Services
St. Matthew's School
3 Carhart Ave., White Plains, NY 10605
ph. 914-761-7524
fax 914-761-8806
