Merakey opens new school in Washington County
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
August 20, 2026

Merakey opens new school in Washington County

Merakey offers autistic, emotional support services in Ellsworth.

For the MVI

Just in time for back-to-school, Merakey and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting recently for Merakey’s new school in Ellsworth. The new school will provide autism and emotional support and therapy services.

The new center is located at 3 Oak St., and occupies the former Ave Maria School.

Washington County Chamber of Commerce president Jeff Kotula and state Sen. Camera Bartolotta were among the guests at the ribbon cutting, which also included remarks from Merakey staff.

The nonprofit school, which is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, has the capacity for eight classrooms and 21 students.

“Our new school in Ellsworth is a reflection of Merakey’s mission— providing innovative education solutions that serve our communities’ needs,” said Rachael Fike, Merakey’s education director. “We are proud to offer therapy services that will create an accessible learning environment where all students can thrive.”

“We are excited to bring Merakey to the Ellsworth community to offer these important educational services,” said Fike. This endeavor reflects our ever-present commitment to making vital resources and programming accessible for all community members.”

Merakey is a developmental, behavioral health and education provider offering a breadth of integrated services to individuals and communities across the country.

With more than 10,000 employees across the nation, we leverage our size and expertise to meet the needs of individuals, their families, public and private healthcare funders, and community partner organizations. With our experience, expertise and compassion, we empower everyone within our communities to reach their fullest potential.

For more information on Merakey, visit merakey.org.

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