Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School
Welcome to the digital home of Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School, a visionary leader in the field of education and special needs services. This platform showcases Michael’s commitment to transforming lives through his pioneering work at Shrub Oak International School and his extensive contributions to private education management. Beyond his leadership in education, Michael is dedicated to advancing autism advocacy, fostering innovation in special needs programs, and supporting families and professionals in the field. With decades of experience and a forward-thinking approach, Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School offers invaluable insights and guidance for those navigating the complexities of special education and behavioral health services.
Michael Koffler: A Visionary Leader in Special Education and Autism Advocacy
Michael Koffler is a distinguished leader in the field of education, a pioneer in special needs services, and the co-founder and CEO of Shrub Oak International School, a leading educational institution designed to serve children and families impacted by autism and related conditions. With a career spanning nearly four decades, Michael’s contributions to education and behavioral health have positively influenced countless lives. His commitment to delivering innovative, individualized educational solutions for those with acute special needs has set a new standard in private education management.
Early Career and Educational Foundations
Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School’s journey in education began in 1986 when he founded Sunshine Developmental School, a therapeutic preschool in Jamaica, Queens. This small program initially served just six children but quickly grew to support nearly 600 children each year across campuses in Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. Sunshine Developmental School became a leading provider of therapeutic and educational services, catering primarily to young children with developmental challenges.
Driven by a desire to address the gaps in special needs education, Michael expanded his work with the creation of K3 Learning Inc., a diversified private education management firm. K3 has interests in private schools, educational support services, and educational technology, and focuses on supporting children and families with acute special needs. Through K3 Learning, Michael founded and managed several renowned programs, including Claremont Preparatory School (now renamed Leman Preparatory), Rebecca School, Aaron School, Montclare Children’s School, and more. These institutions have become hallmarks of quality in specialized education, serving as models for the integration of behavioral health services within educational frameworks.
A Pioneer in Behavioral Health and Autism Support
One of Michael Koffler’s most significant achievements is the founding of Shrub Oak International School, located in Westchester County, New York. Shrub Oak is therapeutic day and residential school for autistic children, adolescents, and young adults with complex co-occurring conditions. Situated on 127 acres less than one hour from New York City, Shrub Oak offers an unparalleled environment for students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Shrub Oak’s innovative curriculum, individualized approach, and commitment to best-in-class staffing have made it one of the premier institutions for autism education in the world. Michael Koffler’s vision for Shrub Oak International School extends beyond the classroom; the school emphasizes holistic development through a focus on life skills, emotional well-being, and the development of independence in students. His work in founding Shrub Oak is a testament to his passion for creating environments where individuals with autism can not only learn but also lead fulfilling lives.
In addition to Shrub Oak, Michael founded MetSchools, the largest private, proprietary provider of school-based education services in New York City. Under MetSchools, Michael was responsible for a network of programs and institutions, many of which remain leaders in the special education field today.
Philanthropy and Advocacy in Autism Education
Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School’s contributions to the field of autism education extend beyond the schools he has founded. In 2005, he established The Michael C. Koffler Endowed Professorship in Autism at Pace University, a program designed to advance research and training in autism spectrum disorders. His commitment to advancing the field has earned him numerous accolades, including the Private Sector Achievement Award from New York State in 2006, and recognition as a Finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2007.
Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School’s advocacy for autism education and his leadership in special needs services have also been acknowledged by his peers through a variety of leadership awards, including the Fleet Bank Small Business Leadership Award in 2001 and ongoing recognition from the Young Presidents Organization/World Presidents Organization (YPO/WPO), where he has served as Chairman of the Big Apple Gold Chapter and Board Chair of the Metro New York Chapter. His leadership roles on the boards of prestigious organizations, including the Futures in Education Foundation of the RC Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens and St. Francis College, further exemplify his dedication to community service and educational excellence.
Beyond Education: Personal Passions and Family Life
Outside of his professional life, Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School is a devoted family man with a wide range of personal interests. He is an avid exerciser, dedicating 1 to 1.5 hours daily to floor work and cardio, along with weight training three times a week. An enthusiastic tennis player, Michael plays two to three times a week at a strong 3.5 level, and he also enjoys participating in city-wide cycling events, including the TD Five Boro Bike Ride, a 50-mile journey through New York City.
Michael has also cultivated a passion for classic cars, which he collects and restores, reflecting his appreciation for craftsmanship and precision. Family is central to his life; he enjoys spending time with his five grandchildren, his wife, children, and extended family. His commitment to nurturing strong, supportive relationships is a core value both personally and professionally, encapsulated in his ethos: “Approach relationships in the way you would like to be treated.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
Throughout his career, Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School has approached every challenge with the belief that a healthy work environment is key to success. His leadership style emphasizes integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those he serves. Whether in his role as CEO of Shrub Oak International School or through his philanthropic efforts, Michael’s legacy is one of innovation, dedication, and profound impact on the field of special needs education.
In addition to his work in education, Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School is a published author, having written two illustrated children’s books that emphasize positive life lessons for young readers. He is currently working on a third book, focused on the importance of nutrition and healthy eating for children, further demonstrating his commitment to nurturing young minds.
Michael Koffler’s visionary approach to education, deep understanding of the needs of children with autism, and unwavering dedication to improving the quality of life for families have made him a leader not only in education but also in the broader community. His life’s work serves as an inspiration to educators, parents, and advocates, and his impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Thank you for visiting the online portfolio of Michael Koffler, a distinguished leader in the education sector with a career that spans special education management, autism advocacy, and educational mentorship. With extensive experience in founding and leading innovative programs, Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School has made significant contributions to both seasoned educators and those new to the field of special needs education. In addition to his work at Shrub Oak International School and other institutions, Michael is deeply committed to supporting the education community through mentorship and advocacy. His approach combines professional expertise with a dedication to fostering growth and development, benefiting students, families, and the broader education landscape.