Kohler Academy Press Release

Bancroft Adds Kohler Academy to its Special Education Portfolio

Kohler Academy Acquisition Expands Bancroft School Network  

(Cherry Hill, N.J.) – Bancroft, a premier provider of special education and related programs and services for children and adults living with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities and brain injuries, has acquired Kohler Academy from the Arc of Union County.

The acquisition of Kohler Academy adds a fourth school to Bancroft’s special education school network that includes The Bancroft School in Mt. Laurel, the Bancroft Preschool & Early Education Program in Moorestown, and The Bancroft School at Voorhees Pediatric Facility in Voorhees. The transfer in ownership took place on July 1, 2022.  

Founded in 1963, Kohler Academy has a legacy of meeting the needs of students with disabilities. Located in Mountainside, NJ, in Union County, it is a New Jersey Department of Education approved program.

School Principal Gary Pignatello along with the teachers and staff will continue to serve in their roles.  The school program, which has been a beacon of hope for so many families, will continue to meet the individualized needs of its students.

The transition of this storied educational program is a perfect fit for Bancroft whose own legacy goes back 140 years when founder Margaret Bancroft, a pioneer in special education, opened one of the first private schools in the United States for children with special needs.

“We are thrilled to expand Bancroft’s special education footprint and to have the opportunity to work with the amazing staff and teachers at Kohler Academy,” stated Bancroft President & CEO Toni Pergolin. “We have worked closely with the Arc of Union County to ensure a smooth transition and have no doubt that our relationship will continue as we both explore innovative ways to help children with disabilities and their families live their best lives.”

“Bancroft is a leader in the special education space,” says Frank Caragher, Executive Director of the Arc of Union County. “I trust that the legacy that we have helped to build at Kohler Academy is safe in their hands and that  students here will continue to receive an exceptional education experience and resources that will help them thrive.”

The Arc of Union County will continue to provide valuable services and resources to individuals and families in Union County. 

For information on enrollment, contact Joy Furgiuele, Bancroft Director of Admissions, at [email protected].

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Bancroft is a leading regional nonprofit provider of specialized services for individuals with autism, intellectual or developmental disabilities and those in need of neurological rehabilitation. Through its innovative programs supporting people throughout different stages in life, Bancroft offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at unlocking the full potential in each person and meeting their changing needs. Programming includes special education, vocational training and supported employment, structured day programs, residential treatment programs, community living programs, and behavioral supports. In 2018, Bancroft opened the Raymond & Joanne Welsh Campus in Mt. Laurel, NJ, for children’s services, featuring the flagship Bancroft School and Lindens Center for Autism. The campus is the most progressive and expansive campus for children with special needs in the region.

Established in 1883 and now headquartered in Cherry Hill, NJ, Bancroft boasts 30+ programs in 17 locations serving 2,200 people annually throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware, including more than 275 community-based group homes and supervised apartments. For more information, visit neurorehab.bancroft.org.