ABOUT US

At Tiegerman (formerly SLCD – School for Language and Communication Development), we are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young adults with language and communication challenges. Our mission is to provide a supportive, individualized educational environment that nurtures academic success, social-emotional growth, and lifelong independence.  Since our founding in 1985, Tiegerman has been dedicated to one mission: “Giving Our Children a Voice.” This guiding principle reflects our commitment to helping preschool and school-age children with severe language and autism spectrum disorders, unlock their potential and connect with the world around them.

Our Mission: Empowering Families, Transforming Lives

Since 1985, Tiegerman has been a place where children find their voices, families find hope, and the community finds inspiration. We are proud to be part of every student’s journey and to watch them grow into confident, capable individuals, who can connect with the world in their own unique ways.
Tiegerman is more than a school—it’s a place where children find their voices, build confidence, and create connections that last a lifetime. We know that language is the foundation of life—it shapes how we think, learn, and share our experiences with the world. That’s why we are committed to empowering students with speech and language-based learning differences, through evidence-based instruction, therapeutic interventions, and a nurturing, individualized approach to education.

We believe in starting early to make a lasting difference. Our mission is to identify and support children with language and autism spectrum disorders by providing an education that prepares them for a world filled with words, conversations, and meaningful connections. At Tiegerman, we don’t just teach—we help students overcome barriers, celebrate their strengths, and discover the power of communication in their own unique way.
Every child deserves to be heard, understood, and valued. At Tiegerman, we make that possible—one word, one sentence, and one success story at a time.

The Tiegerman Language Method (TLM):
Unlocking Communication, Empowering Success

Dr. Tiegerman believes that children with language and autism spectrum disorders require more than traditional special education—they need a language-rich environment that fosters lifelong learning. That’s why she developed the Tiegerman Language Method (TLM), a transdisciplinary approach that integrates language into every aspect of education. Rather than relying on memorization, TLM prioritizes communication, critical thinking, and meaningful social interactions. Students learn to express their thoughts, ask questions, and engage in conversations—essential skills for reading, writing, and comprehension across all subjects. Teachers adapt instruction in real-time using strategies like paraphrasing, re-directing, and “bridging” to reinforce understanding and application. At Tiegerman, we believe that language is the foundation of learning, and by empowering students with strong communication skills, we help unlock their academic and personal potential.

Raising Awareness
Advocating for Inclusion and Understanding

For nearly four decades, we’ve been strong advocates for children who are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Recognizing the deep connection between language and cognitive development, we work to ensure that every child is placed in programs that truly meet their needs. We challenge assumptions and ask critical questions: Is a child struggling with language because of cognitive delays, or are cognitive delays a result of language disorders? By reframing the conversation, we push for better understanding, support, and opportunities for these children to thrive.

Innovative Programs:
Transforming Learning Through Language

At Tiegerman, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to find their voice and connect with the world. That’s why we’ve created innovative programs that go beyond traditional education, helping students develop the language skills they need to thrive. In our small, supportive classrooms, compassionate educators provide the tools and personalized attention that allow each student to learn at their own pace. But learning doesn’t stop in the classroom—through our partnership with PVH, students gain hands-on experience running in-school Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein stores, as well as participating in internships and career pathways. These real-world opportunities build confidence, independence, and a bright future for every student.

Personalized Learning: Empowering Every Student to Thrive

Every child learns differently, and at Tiegerman, we embrace that uniqueness. Our individualized learning plans are designed to meet each student’s specific needs, ensuring they receive the right support, environment, and curriculum to thrive. Our educators collaborate to make learning seamless—if a child is focusing on arithmetic, their reading lessons might include numbers, while social studies could involve counting states. By integrating subjects in meaningful ways, we create a cohesive and engaging learning experience, all while aligning with New York State Learning Standards to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for success.

Comprehensive Support Services: Guiding Every Student Toward Success

At Tiegerman, we go beyond academics to support the whole child. Our specialized therapeutic services are designed to nurture development, build confidence, and enhance learning. These services include:

  • Speech Therapy – Strengthening communication skills
  • Physical Therapy – Improving mobility and motor function
  • Occupational Therapy – Enhancing daily living and fine motor skills
  • Counseling – Supporting emotional well-being and social development
  • Adaptive Physical Education – Encouraging movement in an inclusive setting
  • Computer-Based Learning Instruction – Utilizing technology to reinforce learning

By integrating these services into our educational approach, we ensure that every child receives the comprehensive support they need to succeed.