Staten Island, NY: Autistic preschoolers need more support

Feb 8, 2026, SILive: Leaders say Staten Island’s autistic kids need more preschool access, as official is ‘principal for the day’ at Eden II

https://www.silive.com/news/2026/02/leaders-say-staten-islands-autistic-kids-need-more-preschool-access-as-official-is-principal-for-the-day-at-eden-ii.html?outputType=amp 

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — City Councilmember Frank Morano spent Feb. 5 serving as “principal for the day” at Eden II Programs’ Little Miracles Preschool, joining faculty and students for a day focused on education, advocacy and awareness.

Morano, who represents the 51st Council District, participated in classroom activities as Eden II marks its 50th anniversary of service to the autism community on Staten Island.

Eden II Programs is a nonprofit organization that provides community-based services and support for individuals with autism across their lifespan.

Now in its 50th year, the organization serves more than 500 individuals throughout New York City and Long Island.

During the visit, Little Miracles Preschool Director Lauren Grimaldi and members of Eden II’s executive team met with Morano to discuss the need for expanded specialized early childhood services on Staten Island’s South Shore.

“Having Councilman Morano here to witness the ‘miracles’ that happen in our classrooms every day is invaluable,” Grimaldi said.

She added: “We discussed the vital importance of expanding preschool access on the South Shore to ensure every child with autism has the opportunity to reach their full potential as early as possible.” . . .