Rae Eisdorfer

Executive Director, Manhattan Star Academy

Rae Eisdorfer has served as Executive Director of MSA since 2011. Under her leadership, the school has grown from just two students to more than 140, reflecting her steadfast commitment to ensuring every child’s success. After MSA formally joined YAI, Rae launched the upper school to support older students in developing skills for increased independence. In 2021, she further expanded MSA with the opening of its preschool, guided by a philosophy of meeting children where they are and honoring diverse learning needs and styles.

Rae is widely recognized as a leader in special education. She served on the Mayor’s Task Force on Autism in 2011 and remains an active member of the Council for Exceptional Children. Her expertise, particularly in early childhood education, is frequently sought by YAI programs and peer special education schools. Prior to joining MSA, Rae was Senior Principal of the New York League for Early Learning and the Gramercy School. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education and a School District Administrator license from Queens College.