Since our founding in 1952 by the late Dr. Gertrude A.
Barber, we have grown from a one-room classroom to a dynamic, multi-faceted facility that provides education, services and support to individuals, families and professionals.
The Barber National Institute offers a complete range of services that includes early intervention for infants and toddlers, an inclusive preschool, PreK Counts program for at-risk preschoolers, an Autism Center of Excellence, an approved private school, job training and placement, residential options including community group homes, Lifesharing and supported living programs, in-home services, behavioral therapy, a creative arts program and a retirement center.
Quick Facts (2026)
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 146 students
- Average class size: 9 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
as part of broader developmental disabilities diagnoses
Year Founded
1952
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
146 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
26%
State avg.: 27%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
18 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
9 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
No dress code
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- Since our founding in 1952 by the late Dr. Gertrude A. Barber, we have grown from a one-room classroom to a dynamic, multi-faceted facility that provides education, services and support to individuals, families and professionals. The Barber National Institute offers a complete range of services that includes early intervention for infants and toddlers, an inclusive preschool, an Autism Center of Excellence, an approved private school, job training and placement, residential options including community group homes, Lifesharing and supported living programs, in-home services, specialized therapies and behavioral therapy, a creative arts program and a retirement center.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline for Dr Gertrude A Barber Center, Inc?
The application deadline for Dr Gertrude A Barber Center, Inc is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Dr Gertrude A Barber Center, Inc also viewed these schools: Elizabeth Black School and Bethel Christian School Erie, PA.
The nearest high school to Dr Gertrude A Barber Center, Inc is Cathedral Preparatory School (1.6 miles away)
The nearest elementary school is Luther Memorial Academy (1.6 miles away)
The nearest preschool is Elizabeth Black School (0.0 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Quick Facts
Elizabeth Black School
Special Education School
136 East Ave
Erie, PA 16507
(814) 453-7661
Erie, PA 16507
(814) 453-7661
- miles
Gr: PK | 215 students
1781 W 38th St
Erie, PA 16508
(814) 868-2365
Erie, PA 16508
(814) 868-2365
4.3 miles
Gr: PK-12 | 244 students Avg. class size: 17 students Sports: 5 | Extracurrculars: 4 Tuition & acceptance rate listed
School Reviews
Endorse Dr Gertrude A Barber Center, Inc. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Financial Aid 101 for Private School Families 2026
Guide to private school financial aid in 2026, with current costs, key planning timelines and practical steps parents need to maximize aid options.
Why Extracurricular Activities Matter in 2026
Discover why extracurricular activities remain essential in 2026, with updated research, costs, and admissions insights for parents and students.
How to Appeal for Financial Aid After Admission
Learn how to appeal for financial aid after admission to a private school, with expert steps, timelines, and 2026 updates for families.
