BETHLEHEM, PA — Lehigh University’s Centennial School marks its 60th anniversary, celebrating six decades as a guiding light for children with behavioral and learning challenges and for the educators committed to helping them succeed. Founded in 1965 by Lehigh’s College of Education during the University’s centennial, Centennial has grown into much more than just a school — it is a vibrant, supportive community where each child’s potential is recognized and nurtured through expertise, compassion, and a belief in second chances.
For hundreds of children and families, the journey at Centennial started with uncertainty but ended with hope renewed. Students who previously struggled in traditional classrooms have found success through personalized strategies, positive reinforcement, and a staff that truly believes in each child’s potential to grow.
The need for programs like Centennial is more urgent than ever. Across the country, nearly 7.5 million students—15% of all public school children—receive special education services, and this number keeps increasing. In Pennsylvania, the need is even greater, with 21% of students receiving such support. Childhood mental, behavioral, and developmental challenges have also risen, with nearly 28% of children ages 3–17 now diagnosed with related disorders. Still, more than half of these children do not get the help they need.
Centennial’s approach has always focused on recognizing potential first, not limitations. If we see the child, rather than just the disability, the possibilities become limitless,” reflected former director Michael George, who dedicated 19 years to the school.
Centennial’s personalized approach guarantees that each student receives the support, instruction, and encouragement they need, guided by their abilities and ambitions. The school’s teaching methods lean on direct, explicit techniques and structured routines, while also highlighting social skills, collaborative group work, and individualized feedback—building a strong sense of independence and confidence. For students who require the most intensive support and often haven’t succeeded elsewhere, Centennial provides a fresh start and a respectful way forward.
“At Centennial School, we look beyond traditional methods, embrace innovation, and consistently seek what truly benefits our unique student body. We believe that kindness, consistency, and clear expectations—what we affectionately call the Centennial Take Fives—create the fertile ground where growth and learning can flourish. Students are developing coping and self-regulation skills, advocating for their needs, and reaching their goals with increasing confidence,” emphasized Dr. Julie Fogt, director of the Centennial School.
Milestone events and traditions strengthen the Centennial community’s deep sense of belonging. The highlight of the anniversary year was the John A. Stoops Lecture, an event honoring the founder of Centennial and Lehigh’s first dean of education—a moment that brought together current and former students, families, faculty, and staff to celebrate a lasting legacy of excellence and compassion.
Centennial serves as a laboratory school that trains future special education teachers, psychologists, counselors, and educational leaders. Each year, dozens of Lehigh graduate students gain hands-on experience in Centennial’s classrooms, receiving mentorship, practical training, and deep immersion in evidence-based practices. Every Lehigh graduate who has worked with the school in the past 15 years has secured employment afterward—an outstanding record that highlights the school’s reputation and the value of its training.
“Part of our mission is to provide graduate students with high-quality education,” says Dr. Fogt. “I hear from school districts all the time looking to hire people that we train at the school because they know they’re getting someone that’s highly skilled, highly trained, and is going to be an amazing addition to their faculty.”
“Centennial is a beacon of hope for students with disabilities, a trusted partner of their families, and a guiding force for aspiring special education teachers,” says Dr. Fogt.
Students at Centennial come from up to 40 different school districts, charter schools, and intermediate units throughout the Lehigh Valley and beyond. The school provides elementary, middle, and high school programs—each designed to support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. High school students benefit from an in-school jobs program, which helps develop practical skills for life after graduation. All students work toward the goal of transitioning, when appropriate, to less restrictive environments such as general or special education classrooms in their neighborhood schools, vocational-technical programs, dual enrollment at community colleges, or community-based job training.
Dr. Robin Hojnoski, acting dean of Lehigh University’s College of Education, adds that Centennial’s mission aligns with the College’s core values—delivering high-quality, student-centered education while preparing the next generation of education professionals. The school’s influence extends outward, benefiting not only the children and families it serves but also the field of education itself.
As demand for high-quality special education continues to grow and the threat of funding cuts looms, Centennial’s mission remains urgent and steadfast. Its story is reflected in the achievements of its students, the gratitude of families, and the passion of professionals who share its lessons with other schools and communities. For sixty years, Centennial has demonstrated that with belief, skill, and consistent support, children can move from struggling to self-confident, and educators can change lives.
In the words of a recent graduate, “Centennial taught me that with compassion and the right tools, every child can achieve more than they ever imagined.” Sixty years later, Centennial remains a testament to the enduring power of community, expertise, and hope—changing lives one student, one teacher, and one family at a time.
Learn more about the Centennial School online at https://centennial.lehigh.edu/
ABOUT LEHIGH UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Lehigh’s College of Education offers premier graduate-level programs focused on high-impact research, transformative learning experiences, and community partnerships locally, nationally, and globally.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.