About Mandy Vadnai

I am a native New Yorker who grew up in bustling midtown Manhattan. I attended Bank Street College of Education, earning a masters in special and general education. For the last 20 years, I have worked as a school leader and a special education teacher in a variety of NYC schools: public, private and special education. 

In my last role, I was the founding Lower School Division Head at an independent private school in Brooklyn with an inclusive learning approach. Starting a program necessitated decisions about structures, protocols and curriculum involving a ton of research and, ultimately, deepened my understanding of successful and effective schools. One thing has always been clear to me: meeting children where they are and individualizing learning is what makes school not only accessible for all, but transformative. 

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Throughout my time working in schools, I witnessed the frustrations and roadblocks families often faced if their children needed additional supports. This landscape is often opaque and incredibly confusing. There is jargon to memorize. Models to understand. Learning tools to try. Specialists to find. Experts to talk to. Conflicting advice to sort through. ​As the mother of two teenagers attending NYC schools, I also personally understand the challenges of schooling children in a huge city with many options, where being resourceful is often critical and time is finite. 

All of these factors led me to the decision to start this service. I know what good programs look and feel like -- I can help eliminate the guesswork. My customized approach is designed to help you make informed decisions. I work closely with each family to assess their needs - answering questions, offering resources and identifying the best course of action. 

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While I cannot guarantee a placement in a specific program, I can make sure that you know your best options and fully understand each school that you consider. I have even helped families find boarding schools, camps, live-in caregivers, and after-school classes. Whatever stage of the journey you’re in, I can offer you a partnership, hopefully making this process feel a little easier, slightly less stressful and definitely more supportive.