I Hope

Pediatric acquired brain injury (PABI) is the number one cause of disability for children and young adults in the United States. There is an immediate need for educational services for children with brain injury.

Between 250 and 275 new NYC students will need highly specialized educational services each year as a result of their brain injuries resulting in over 3,000 students at any time in the school system. Unfortunately, even if these children are appropriately diagnosed and referred for private special educational placement, finding an appropriate school in NYC is a challenge.

The International Academy of Hope (iHOPE) is a highly specialized brain injury school that offers an intensive and specialized care and education for 54 students with mental disabilities.

This is a story of incredible love and hope for children. Parents, teachers and therapists abandon their perceptions of what is typical, trying to see things from children’s point of view. Love, compassion and dedication are overwhelming.

But mostly, this is the story of all children of iHope who work hard, make progress every day and bring love and joy to the lives of everyone around them.