Nolan Presents “Big Check” for Arts Curriculum

Westchester County Board of Legislators Minority Whip James Nolan (R- Yonkers, Eastchester, Bronxville) delivered $15,000 in County funding to the Yonkers-based Westchester School for Special Children to support in-school art and dance classes. Heartsong, Inc., a therapeutic, educational, and rehabilitative creative arts non-profit in White Plains will oversee the classes. Heartsong aims to enhance the functioning level and life quality of individuals with special needs in an atmosphere of joy and support.

Legislator Nolan said, “I am honored to have been able to deliver this grant for this wonderful institution. They have been a pillar in our community for decades, providing vital education, therapy, and support to children and families who need it most. I will always stand with our schools and advocate for the resources they deserve. This funding is about making sure every child, regardless of ability, has the chance to succeed. Our children are our future, and it’s our responsibility to give them every tool possible to reach their potential.”

The Westchester School for Special Children is an educational center for children with special needs. The school provides an interdisciplinary educational program in a supportive environment to help children with disabilities develop skills they need to function productively and independently in various settings. County funding will pay for services delivered to students in all 17 classrooms at the Yonkers campus and 11 classrooms at the North Salem campus.

Leonard Spano, Executive Director of the school, said, “The Westchester School for Special Children is deeply grateful to Legislator James Nolan for securing vital funding to support our programs and services. This investment will allow us to enhance our classrooms, expand resources for our teachers and staff, and most importantly, ensure that our students receive the individualized attention and care they need to succeed. For decades, our school has worked to provide children with special needs a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment, and Legislator Nolan’s commitment helps us strengthen that mission. We thank him for his leadership, his advocacy, and his recognition of the importance of investing in children with unique challenges and extraordinary potential.”