Saint Benedict?s School in Throgs Neck opened its doors and students opened their hearts to a group of displaced special education pupils.

About 27 students, ages 8 to 13, are enrolled at the John Cardinal O?Connor Learning Center. The center was forced to move from Saint Raymond?s School in Castle Hill. The special education pupils say they are happy at their new home. Ashley Villegas says staff and fellow students treat her with respect and parents say their children are learning more.

Officials at Saint Benedict?s School say they are also taking away a lot from the experience. The school hopes to instill a good education and Christian values in its new pupils.