Brian Piccolo Specialty School
1. General Information
About (Overview)
Brian Piccolo Specialty School is a public institution dedicated to providing specialized educational programs for students with unique learning needs and abilities. Located in Cooper City, Florida, the school serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade and is part of the Broward County Public Schools district. Brian Piccolo Specialty School emphasizes individualized instruction, ensuring that each student receives a tailored learning plan that meets their academic, social, and emotional needs. The school offers a blend of traditional academics, therapeutic support, and life skills training, creating an environment where students can thrive in all areas of development.
Teachers work closely with families, therapists, and support staff to implement strategies that foster independence, confidence, and academic success. The school integrates technology, experiential learning, and differentiated instruction to engage students across multiple learning modalities. Brian Piccolo Specialty School also emphasizes character education, social responsibility, and community engagement, preparing students not only academically but also socially for future educational settings. Its commitment to inclusion, innovation, and student-centered learning makes it a recognized leader in specialized education within the district and state.
Contact Informations
Address: 401 NW 136th Avenue, Cooper City, FL 33026
Phone: (754) 323-2100
Email: brianpiccolo@browardschools.com
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1998 |
| School Type | Public Specialty School |
| Grades | K–8 |
| Motto | “Empowering Every Learner” |
| Accreditation | Florida Department of Education |
| School District | Broward County Public Schools |
| Principal | Dr. Jessica Morales |
Brian Piccolo Specialty School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Florida Specialty Schools | Top 15% |
| National Recognition for Specialized Education | Top 25% |
| Parent Satisfaction | 4.8 / 5 |
| Academic Performance | Above State Average |
2. Brian Piccolo Specialty School Academics
Brian Piccolo Specialty School Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- Life Skills and Functional Curriculum
- Physical Education and Wellness Department
- Arts and Music Department
- Special Education Support Services
Brian Piccolo Specialty School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Reading and Literacy Development
- Mathematics Fundamentals and Problem Solving
- Science Exploration and Experiments
- Social Studies and Civic Awareness
- Life Skills Training (Daily Living, Communication, Social Skills)
- Visual Arts and Performing Arts
- Physical Education and Health
- Therapeutic and Behavioral Support Programs
- Assistive Technology Integration
Online Learning
Brian Piccolo Specialty School offers online learning opportunities to supplement in-person instruction. The school uses adaptive digital platforms to provide individualized lessons in core subjects, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Teachers monitor student progress through virtual learning dashboards and adjust instruction to meet evolving needs. In addition, parents are provided with resources and training to support their child’s online learning at home. Online learning is particularly utilized during inclement weather, extended absences, or for enrichment purposes, ensuring continuity and flexibility in the educational process.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Florida Standards Assessments (FSA) Reading | 78% Proficient |
| FSA Mathematics | 75% Proficient |
| Science Assessments | 72% Proficient |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Brian Piccolo Specialty School maintains a high student retention rate of approximately 94%, reflecting its supportive environment and strong academic interventions. Although the school serves elementary and middle school students, the majority transition successfully to inclusive or specialized high school programs, demonstrating the effectiveness of its preparatory curriculum and individualized instruction.
3. Brian Piccolo Specialty School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a K–8 specialty school, Brian Piccolo does not require GPA, SAT, or ACT scores for admission. Placement is determined through assessments, referrals, and consideration of individual learning needs. Priority is given to students whose educational requirements align with the school’s specialized programs.
Brian Piccolo Specialty School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| In-District Enrollment | 90% |
| Referral-Based / Out-of-District | 10% |
Brian Piccolo Specialty School Application Requirements
Admission to Brian Piccolo Specialty School requires a referral from a school district official or special education coordinator. Families must provide prior school records, evaluations, Individualized Education Program (IEP) documentation if applicable, and health/immunization records. The school encourages a collaborative intake process, where parents, teachers, and specialists discuss the student’s educational, behavioral, and social needs to ensure a proper placement. The application process focuses on creating a personalized plan for each student, emphasizing a supportive and inclusive educational experience.
Application Process
- Submit referral through Broward County Public Schools
- Provide prior academic and special education documentation
- Participate in an intake evaluation and family interview
- Develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) if applicable
- Receive placement notification and program orientation details
Brian Piccolo Specialty School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Referral Submission Opens | February |
| Evaluation and Intake | March–April |
| Placement Decisions | May |
| Orientation | August |
| First Day of School | Late August |
Essay Prompt
Not applicable; the school does not require essays for admission. Parents may submit a personal statement regarding the child’s educational needs to assist in individualized planning.
Brian Piccolo Specialty School Scholarships
As a public specialty school, Brian Piccolo does not provide scholarships. However, families can access district-supported programs for educational materials, therapy support, and extracurricular participation. Additional grants may be available for assistive technology or specialized equipment.
Brian Piccolo Specialty School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (Public School) |
| Registration Fee | None |
| Extracurricular Activities | $20–$50 |
| Field Trips / Enrichment | Variable |
4. Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 40% |
| Hispanic / Latino | 25% |
| African American | 20% |
| Asian | 10% |
| Multiracial / Other | 5% |
| Male | 52% |
| Female | 48% |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 35% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs, reflecting the school’s commitment to supporting families in need. All students receive tailored educational support, including specialized interventions for students with disabilities, behavioral challenges, or other learning differences. Professional staff and therapists collaborate to ensure each student has equitable access to education.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 220 |
| Teachers | 25 |
| Average Class Size | 10 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 9:1 |
University Diversity
Diversity at Brian Piccolo Specialty School is integral to its educational philosophy. The student body represents a broad range of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, fostering a rich and inclusive environment. Diversity is reflected not only in demographics but also in educational needs, requiring adaptive teaching strategies and personalized support. Classrooms encourage collaboration, respect for differences, and peer mentoring. Staff development focuses on cultural competency and inclusive instructional practices, ensuring that students benefit from a learning environment that values equity and mutual respect.
Average Earnings
While long-term earnings data are not tracked at this level, Brian Piccolo Specialty School graduates often transition successfully to inclusive or specialized high schools, where they continue to excel academically and socially. The school’s emphasis on functional life skills, independence, and problem-solving prepares students for vocational training, higher education, and meaningful participation in society.
5. Brian Piccolo Specialty School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Faculty at Brian Piccolo Specialty School includes certified special education teachers, therapists, counselors, and support staff. All staff members are trained to address diverse learning needs, behavioral challenges, and social-emotional development. Collaboration among staff is a cornerstone of the school’s approach to ensure individualized, holistic education for each student.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members have expertise in differentiated instruction, assistive technology, behavior management, and therapeutic interventions. Many have advanced degrees in special education, psychology, or counseling, and have received recognition for innovative teaching and successful student outcomes. Staff members regularly participate in professional development and contribute to district-wide initiatives on inclusive education.
6. Brian Piccolo Specialty School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The campus includes classrooms designed for small-group instruction, therapy rooms, computer labs, an art and music studio, and adaptive physical education facilities. Outdoor learning spaces and playgrounds provide opportunities for recreation, social skills development, and physical activity. Housing is not provided, as students are drawn from the surrounding district and transportation is coordinated through the school. After-school programs offer enrichment, leadership activities, and social skill development.
Transportation
The school provides district-managed bus services, ensuring safe and reliable transportation for all students. Routes are tailored to meet the specific needs of the student population, including accessibility accommodations. Families also have the option to transport their children, and the school promotes safe arrival and dismissal procedures with well-supervised entry points and staff assistance.