Our History

A group of young women led by Beth Levin Siegel met to discuss the possibility of creating a service for underprivileged children. Within a year’s time they were formally organized into the Godmother’s League, providing day nursery services to children of working mothers.

Through the generosity of Hattie Bondy, the Godmother’s League found its initial home in the Amelia Relief Society building on East 101st Street. Shortly after moving in and getting settled, they filed incorporation papers to make it official.

On March 21, 1949, a ground-breaking ceremony was held, led by Birdie Reich Shapiro and construction began on the present premises of West End Day School at 255 West 71st Street. 

In response to the needs of the community, the Godmother’s League transitioned from providing care for abandoned and neglected infants and young children to serving school-age children who were emotionally vulnerable. The Godmother’s League Day Treatment Center and School was formed.

As their success in helping vulnerable children and their families grew, the organization changed its name, to more aptly reflect who they were and what they did. The Children’s Day Treatment Center and School was born.

Roland Ostrower is named Director of Children’s Day Treatment Center and School and goes on to serve the community for over 40 years.

Roland Ostrower, along with Nancy Nasr, Admissions Head, and the Board of Directors shifted the organization and its mission from a treatment facility to an independent school - now known as West End Day School.

Carrie Catapano begins serving as the Head of School.

Giving a new face to the school, the lobby, entrance, and garden are transformed into our new Courtyard.

New Library is constructed on the second floor.

Science & Art Center is developed.

Master Plan is developed and the inaugural phase, our ground floor, is transformed into an innovative education and community space. 

Renovations for our new Gym space were completed! Our Gym and Auditorium space were remodeled with all new state-of-the-art gym performance and stage features.

We expanded our school to begin offering 7th grade, with a plan to continue our expansion to 8th grade in 2025. This strategic decision was made in response to the needs of families and students who thrive at WEDS, allowing for continuity in education while maintaining the personalized attention the school is known for.

In 2025, we celebrated our 40th Anniversary with a spirited Spring Benefit held at our home on West 71st Street. The event brought together families, alumni, and friends to honor four decades of supporting unique learners—and to raise vital funds for our Middle School expansion.

Fall 2025 welcomes our first 8th grade class—ensuring even more students benefit from the individualized education and supportive environment that define the WEDS experience.