From our very beginnings, Kennedy Krieger has pioneered specialized education for children with developmental disabilities and conditions affecting the nervous system. Today through our network of five schools, we’ve developed and refined approaches that enable students to reach their potential academically, socially, and behaviorally—with the ultimate goal of nurturing independence for today and tomorrow.

In our next chapter, we will amplify our pursuit of infinite possibilities beyond our walls by creating the National Center for Education Research. This center will be the first of its kind in the nation, revolutionizing how children in special education are educated and advancing precision education practices to benefit all students.

This bold initiative will:

  • Harness a wealth of data collected from decades of special education practice with a diverse student group to identify and inform best practices.
  • Launch an innovation hub with cutting-edge technology, bringing together educators, researchers, therapists, behavioral scientists, and technologists.
  • Rapidly design, test, and refine evidence-based learning strategies from our unique position as an education and care provider and research institution.
  • Craft replicable pre-K to 21 educational models that can be customized to meet the unique needs of students across a spectrum of abilities and challenges
  • Disseminate proven approaches to school partners countrywide, setting new standards and scaling excellence in special education.

The urgency is clear. Despite decades of progress in special education, a critical gap in evidence-based research for children with disabilities remains. With our specialized schools, clinical expertise, and research capabilities, no other institution is better positioned to bridge this gap. And, our impact could reach every student nationwide. Just as precision medicine revolutionized healthcare, precision education—tailored to each student’s unique needs—is the future of learning.

Within five years, we believe this center will transform educational policy and practice nationwide. Its findings will influence Department of Education guidelines, reshape teacher preparation programs, and set new standards for special and general education. Most importantly, it will ensure time in school delivers the greatest impact on children’s future independence and quality of life.

If you would like to learn more about how to help us create a future full of possibility, please contact our Office of Philanthropy.
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