Special Education Schools, Programs and Resources

Special Education Schools & Resources for Children Ages 3-21

The Watson Institute is an educational organization in Western Pennsylvania made up of special education schools, programs, and resources for children with special needs and their families - including outpatient behavioral health services for children and adolescents up to the age of 21. Whether it's an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, neurological impairment or another serious emotional challenge, we are on a mission to help children and youth reach their fullest potential in all aspects of their lives. Our special education school resources and programs also serve as a learning environment for teachers, therapists and other professionals or pre-professionals who serve those children.

Special Education Jobs

Are you looking to start your special education career or find a job in the mental and behavioral health field? Watson is looking for compassionate individuals to join our family of educators, therapists, social workers, psychologists, and more who are providing quality special education services to children ages 3 to 21. Whether you've just graduated high school and are looking for summer employment, or have a Master's Degree and years of field experience, you can find a career in special education at Watson. Want to know what it's like to work here? Hear from one of our special education teachers as she shares her experience about working in this dynamic environment. Also, check out our current openings and apply today!

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Outpatient Behavioral Health Services

Are you looking for comprehensive outpatient behavioral health services such as therapy, wraparound services, or diagnostic assessments? Watson offers all of these outpatient services for children up to age 21. Request an appointment today!

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Special Education Training & Consultation Services

Are you an educator looking to learn more about teaching students with special needs? Contact us today to learn more about our special education training and consultation services to districts and educators.

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Latest News

February 11th, 2020

Special Education School Partners with University OT Programs

At the Watson Institute, a special education school in Western Pennsylvania, offering professional development opportunities for our staff is a critical component to providing comprehensive, high-quality special education services to students with special needs. Our partnerships with local universities provide invaluable professional development opportunities for staff. The Watson Institute works with students in various programs … Read More

February 4th, 2020

Watson Educator Teaches Community Engagement & Support

Educators at the Watson Institute’s Friendship Academy are always looking for ways to help our students grow academically and socially. In addition to classroom learning, educators aim to instill the importance of building positive connections in the community. Friendship Academy is a special education school with programs for children between the ages of 5 to … Read More

January 28th, 2020

Sensory Input for Children with Special Needs

At the Watson Institute, one main objective is helping children with special needs achieve their educational and developmental goals. Educators at Watson are always on the lookout for special education resources and will often research activities, such as those that provide sensory input, to incorporate into daily classroom activities to help our students succeed. Last … Read More

Adding Structure to Reduce Problem Behaviors

Some children can become over-stimulated or agitated by their surroundings and benefit from increased structure and a controlled environment. This answer provides suggestions to help decrease your child's difficult behaviors by making some changes to the home environment.

Replacement Behaviors: Vocal & Motor Self-Stimulation

Sometimes vocal and motor self-stimulatory behaviors can interfere with learning and community inclusion. Knowing the function(s) will determine your intervention as well as replacement behavior(s).