Empowering Every Student to Reach Their Maximum Potential
Since 1958, The Karafin School has provided individualized education and support for students with special needs, helping them achieve academic, social, and personal success.
Our Story
Founded in 1958, The Karafin School was established to serve students with special needs through a highly individualized educational approach.
From its earliest years, the school became recognized for its commitment to understanding each student’s unique strengths, challenges, and potential.
Over more than six decades, Karafin has continued to evolve alongside changing educational standards and technological advancements while remaining true to its core mission: helping every student succeed.
Today, The Karafin School serves students who may not have found success in traditional public school settings. Through high academic standards, personalized support, and a compassionate learning environment, students are empowered to grow both academically and socially.
Our Mission
At Karafin, our mission is to help every student achieve their maximum potential by providing individualized education, and emotional support in a safe, structured learning environment where students can thrive.
Our Educational Philosophy
The philosophy of The Karafin School is inspired by the work of psychiatrist Dr. William Glasser and his Choice Theory and Reality Therapy approach, which emphasize personal responsibility, positive relationships, and the importance of individual choice in shaping behavior and success. Glasser believed that students are most successful when they feel connected, respected, supported, and empowered to make meaningful decisions about their learning and personal growth.
At Karafin, we recognize that every student has unique academic, emotional, and social needs. Our counselors, teachers, and staff work collaboratively to build trusting relationships with students and create a safe, structured environment where they can develop confidence, accountability, and self-awareness. Rather than focusing solely on punishment or discipline, our approach encourages students to understand the impact of their choices, develop problem-solving skills, and make decisions that support both academic achievement and positive social interactions.
This philosophy also emphasizes the importance of belonging, independence, achievement, and personal growth. By helping students feel valued and understood, we foster a school culture that promotes resilience, motivation, and lifelong success. Through individualized support and compassionate guidance, students are encouraged to take ownership of their education while developing the skills necessary to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Why Families
Choose Us
Individualized Learning Plans
Education tailored to each student’s academic and emotional needs.
Experienced & Dedicated Staff
Supportive educators and counselors committed to student success.
Positive Academic Outcomes
High graduation rates with many students continuing to two- and four-year colleges.
Supportive Environment
A structured and compassionate setting where students feel understood and empowered.
College & Future Readiness
Guidance that prepares students for higher education and life beyond the classroom.
Small Class Sizes & Rolling Admissions
Our 6:1:1 classes allow for personalized attention and meaningful student-teacher relationships.
Meet our Administrators
Gerardo Pelayo Garcia-Braxton, School Director
Gerardo graduated from Williams College with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Following graduation, he taught mathematics for almost 10 years.
He later earned a Master’s degree in Education Policy from Brown University. His leadership reflects a strong commitment to educational equity, individualized student support, and academic excellence.
Grace Labrador, School Principal
Mrs. Labrador has been in the special education field for over 30 years. She has spent the majority of her career teaching mathematics at the Karafin School, but has experience in teaching Pre-K through 12th grade in Special Education.
Mrs. Labrador has a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science and a master’s degree in Special Education.
In addition to being a qualified School Building Leader, she holds NYS certifications in Special Education, Elementary Education, and Mathematics.
Mrs. Labrador understands the value in meeting students where they are and building positive relationships to move students forward.