NYS Senator Steve Rhoads Visits Variety Child Learning Center to Mark its 60th Anniversary

New York State Senator Steve Rhoads recently visited Variety Child Learning Center’s Levittown campus to recognize the organization’s 60th anniversary, tour the school, and see firsthand the programs and services provided to children with diverse learning needs.

During the visit, Senator Rhoads presented a proclamation from the New York State Senate commemorating 60 years since Variety’s founding. He was welcomed by Variety CEO Janet Koch and Levittown Principal Gabby Genna, who led him on a tour of the school.

Throughout the tour, Senator Rhoads had the opportunity to visit classrooms, meet staff, and interact with students while learning more about Variety’s educational programs and specialized services. Variety provides individualized educational programming and related services, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and family support. In partnership with the Island Trees School District, Variety also provides the district’s Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program.

“We are grateful to Senator Rhoads for taking the time to visit our Levittown campus and learn more about the children and families we serve,” said Janet Koch, CEO of Variety Child Learning Center. “It was wonderful to have the opportunity to share our programs with him, and judging by the smiles on our students’ faces, they were very happy to have him visit, too.”

Founded in 1966, Variety Child Learning Center has spent 60 years supporting children with diverse learning needs and their families. What began at a time when autism and other developmental disabilities were far less understood has grown into an organization serving children and families across Long Island through specialized education, early childhood programs, evaluations, therapeutic services, and family support.

Headquartered in Syosset, Variety has expanded its reach over the years with two locations in Levittown and its newest campus in East Northport, which opened in September 2025. This continued growth reflects Variety’s longstanding commitment to expanding opportunities for children of all abilities to learn, grow, and thrive.

About Variety Child Learning Center
Variety Child Learning Center (Variety) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that fosters the development, education and inclusion of children who require specialized services. Variety offers programs at four Long Island preschool-based locations, as well as in the home and community. Chartered by the New York State Board of Regents, and regulated by the State Education Department, the Department of Health, and the Office of Children and Family Services, Variety provides a comprehensive range of programs and services that meet the individual educational, therapeutic and social-emotional needs of children with and without disabilities. Programs include early intervention, and preschool and universal pre-K, with evaluations offered for supportive services/ therapies, childcare, and family support. All aspects of a child’s development—from six weeks through eight years of age—are addressed. Variety’s programs are led by compassionate and dedicated professionals, including special education teachers; social workers and psychologists; speech, physical and occupational therapists; and an experienced administrative and executive leadership team. For more information, visit www.varietyclc.org, or call 516-921-7171.