The Watson Institute is an educational organization with four licensed approved private special education schools and one licensed private academic school located in Western Pennsylvania.
We specialize in educating children with special needs and in training the professionals and pre-professionals who serve those children. Watson operates a preschool program that brings together children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their typically-developing peers in a positive and inclusive learning environment.
With education as the core of the organization, Watson follows a “whole-child” approach in the services we offer to support the overall growth of each child and family. Through our outpatient behavioral health services for children with special needs and special education programs, the Watson Institute serves children and their families in local communities throughout Western Pennsylvania.
Watson’s special education schools house the heart and soul of the organization – the students. It is in the schools that staff members work individually with the children, watching them grow and overcome obstacles, becoming positive forces in the children’s and their families’ lives, and watching many students transition back to their home school districts whenever possible.
Each of Watson’s special education school programs provide individualized support to unique populations of students. If you’re wondering which program might be the best fit for your child, check out our school overview to learn more about the ages and diagnoses each school serves and the therapeutic interventions and supports provided to students.
The safety and well-being of our staff and students are of the utmost importance. Learn about the tools and resources the Watson Institute uses to keep our students and staff safe.