New Jersey Family: Big Book of Education 2021 by New Jersey Family

2021-22 A Pre-K through college guide

Keeping Them on Track

AFTER COVID A Guide to Your Kids’

MENTAL HEALTH

Special Needs Support,

ENRICHMENT & MORE!

GET TO KNOW NJ’S BEST

PRIVA SCHOOTLE S

Where

fun takes

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EDUCATOR-LED PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS IN PRE-K THROUGH 12TH GRADE The Intrepid Museum is a unique resource in the study of history, science and technology. Grounded in the best practices of inquiry-based, experiential and object-based learning, aligned with state history and Next Generation Science Standards, our education programs are designed to provide engaging experiences for learners of all ages and abilities. Limited funding available for NYC Title I Schools In addition, we are approved to offer New York State CTLE professional learning experiences for teachers. www.intrepidmuseum.org/education/pre-k-12-school-programs

PIER 86, WEST 46TH ST & 12TH AVE, NYC INTREPIDMUSEUM.ORG

©2021 Intrepid Museum Foundation. All Rights Reserved. Except as permitted under applicable law, this work may not be copied, published, disseminated, displayed, performed or played without permission of the copyright holder.

Math every day, World Language every day, and a partnership with Columbia University’s Teachers College. Welcome to our Pre-K. The influence that our Pre-K program has on our youngest students can be seen every day. We nurture their natural curiosity, challenge them, and celebrate their efforts. Each day is dedicated to creative expression, developing social and emotional skills, and teaching them to think like mathematicians, readers, and writers. Supported by a community that inspires their academic growth, our students develop a love for learning that leaves them more than ready for Kindergarten.

For more information about our upcoming fall events contact us at admissions@mka.org

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CONTENTS

Get to know independent schools in NJ and beyond.

8G et in Gear Help them have a great school year with these fun finds.

12 C lean Bill of Health Your checklist to keep the kids healthy all year long

15 T he Montessori Difference Why some parents are choosing this early style of learning

19 S pecial Needs IEPs What you need to know about being your child’s best advocate

22 COVID Slide Worried your kids are behind academically? An expert offers a solution.

24 Mental Health Help

68 School Snapshots

Taking care of their mental well-being is just as important as their physical health.

27 Testing 1,2,3

Our list of preschools, primary, secondary, boarding schools and colleges

74 G ifted Learners

How to help your child overcome the stress of test anxiety.

30 P rivate School Prep

Help your gifted child thrive in and out of school.

77 After School Enrichment

Thinking of applying to an independent school? Here’s how to stand out.

34 Bullies in School

If they need extra help, or a leg up, these spots focus on math, language and more.

79 Take a Trip

Tips for managing the situation if it happens to your child

37 M eet the School

Plan a field trip (or a fun educational day with your kids) at one of these spots.

84 College Countdown

Get an inside look at what independent schools in and around NJ have to offer.

A high school time line to keep track of key planning dates

Editor’s Note: Some of the photos in this issue were taken prior to the COVID pandemic which is why they don’t show students and teachers wearing masks.

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EDITOR'S LETTER

Volume 5, Issue 1 • 2021 Editorial Director Dina El Nabli | editor@njfamily.com Art Director Leeza Hernandez Managing Editor Angel Madison Senior Editor Ronnie Koenig

Hope for a More Traditional School Year

Editorial Interns Emily Jones, Sara Leppert, Kiernan McCormick, Nia Sylva Contributors Heidi L. Borst, Jennifer Kantor, Sarah Markle, Randi Mazzella, Richard Quinn, Arricca Elin SanSone, Laura Waters

After a year of remote, hybrid and in-person learning where nothing was certain except change was a constant, many of us are looking forward to a more traditional school year. While this year will look a lot more normal than last, it’ll still be filled with challenges. Masks will be required for students and staff as we start the school year due in large part to the highly contagious Delta variant and lack of a vaccine for kids younger than 12. Add worry about how much our kids have lost academically and socially during the pandemic along with typical stresses like bullying and peer pressure and it’s no surprise our kids may feel anxious about what lies ahead. If you’re worried about your kids’ mental health as we head into a new school year, you’ll want to read our age-by-age guide on how to help your kids navigate the unique challenges of returning to in-person learning this fall. And if you’re concerned about the COVID slide, our story on why NJ’s schools need to accelerate—not remediate—learning after more than a year of remote instruction will help alleviate some of your fears. Whether you’re looking for the right preschool, enrichment program or are starting the college search, you’ll find help in this issue. If you’re the parent of a special needs child, you’ll relate to NJ mom Sarah Markle’s story about how COVID, in some ways, enhanced the IEP process. And if you’re considering private school, you'll get an inside look at NJ's leading independent schools starting on page 37. We wish your family a happy and healthy school year!

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The acceptance of advertising by New Jersey Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information being advertised. We do not knowingly present any products or services that are fraudulent or misleading in nature. Editorial inquiries and advertising rates may be addressed to Kids Monthly Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974. New Jersey Family can be reached by calling 908-975-1800, emailing editor@njfamily.com, or by visiting our website, njfamily.com.

Reproduction of New Jersey Family or Big Book of Education in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Copyright 2021 by Kids Monthly Publications, Inc.

Grimmz Fairy Tales

connecting with the perfoming arts connecting with each other Sugar Skull

schooltime performances Now that our theaters are open again, SchoolTime is back in the spotlight! Give your students the magic of live performance with one or more of our special curated performing arts experiences both virtual and in-person.

in-school residencies Bring NJPAC teaching artists right to your classroom for multiple sessions. Our residencies are designed to serve up to 30 students for one classroom and can be delivered in person or virtual.

professional development Expand your teaching skills, deepen your curriculum and give yourself a creative boost in NJPAC’s forward-thinking professional development workshops. PDs are for teachers all the way from pre-K to high school, and include hip hop, dance, storytelling, theater, music and more.

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Additional support for Professional Development provided by The Provident Bank Foundation

For more information, visit njpac.org/education

GEAR UP

Clever finds to make the school year more fun

2 1

1. SMART STYLE Take a quick quiz about your kid and you’ll be sent personalized, coordinated looks. Each box comes with seven pieces including shoes. An average box costs $98 ($14/item if you purchase everything). kidpik.com 2. SENSORY AID Help your child stay calm and focused in the classroom and at home with a set that includes a marble maze, a fidget, patches, an activity book and carry bag. PunkinFutz Sesame Street Sensory Set, $49.99. jcp.com 3. OUT TO LUNCH A durable bento container fits up to four removable, leak-free silicone Silipods you can use to freeze and heat purées and other snacks and meals. GrowBento Lunch Set, $38. miniware.com 4. EYES HAVE IT Prep them for screen time on their Chromebooks with lightweight and durable blue light blocking glasses that reduce eye strain. Blue Light Blocking Glasses, $29. touccakids.com 5. LESS STRESS Kids nervous about being back to school in-person? This book will give them strategies to relax and help them face each day with more calm and focus. Mindful Thoughts for Students by Georgina Hooper (Leaping Hare Press), $9.99. amazon.com

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Promoting Independence and Teaching Functional Academic and Life Skills for students with Multiple Disabilities and Autism ages 7 - 21

Giving Students Direction

(908) 232-4181 1571 Lamberts Mill Road Westfield, NJ 07090 www.ucesc.org/schools/westlake_school

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STAYING HEALTHY IN THE CLASSROOM

By ARRICCA ELIN SANSONE

ow that most kids are returning to in-person school full-time, it’s more important than ever to make sure kids are up-to-date on health-related checkups. Follow these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) to give your child a healthy start to the new school year:

PRACTICE WEARING MASKS

VISIT YOUR PEDIATRICIAN

GET A COMFORTABLE BACKPACK

Back to school checkups are the only time many kids see their doctors every year. It’s especially important if your child missed last year’s appointment. Ask about any immunizations or boosters needed. Also, some schools require a sportspecific exam before participating in team sports. Check with the coach or school if you’re not sure what’s needed.

Now that kids will be lugging books back and forth again, it’s important they have a sturdy backpack with padded shoulders and a padded back, adjusted so the bottom sits at their waistline. Pack heavier items toward the center, and make sure the loaded backpack doesn’t weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of your child’s weight. Teach kids to use both shoulder straps to avoid muscle strain (even if it looks less cool).

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SEE YOUR CHILD’S DENTIST Your child should see a dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months. Dental exams may have been put off last year, too, so make sure your child is evaluated as soon as possible. You don’t want little problems to turn into big ones! Ask about custom-fitted mouthguards, too, if your child plays sports to protect their teeth, lips and gums from injury.

SCHEDULE AN EYE EXAM

Kids should have a full vision screening every one to two years, according to the AAO. Ask about eye protection if your kid plays sports; eye protectors with polycarbonate lenses are recommended for many sports including baseball, basketball, football, soccer, hockey and lacrosse. More than 90 percent of children’s eye injuries can be prevented with sports eye protectors.

Governor Murphy recently announced all K-12 students and staff must wear masks in school this fall regardless of vaccination status. The decision was made due to concerns over the Delta variant and dangers presented by children under 12 not yet being eligible for the vaccine. Now’s the time to make sure kids know it’s still necessary to mask up. Make sure your child has several masks on hand and review how to wear them properly over their mouths and noses. Wash cloth masks after each use.

MORE THAN 90 PERCENT OF CHILDREN’S EYE INJURIES CAN BE PREVENTED WITH SPORTS EYE PROTECTORS. DEVELOP A SLEEP ROUTINE We know it’s been a rough year for encouraging routines of any sort but kids need sleep for concentration and learning. It’s never too late to establish a consistent bedtime. Most kids need 10 to 12 hours of sleep, while teens do best with 8 to 10 hours. Also, turn off electronics an hour or more before bedtime to prevent sleep disruption (and keep them out of kids’ bedrooms!). Arricca Elin SanSone is a New York-based health and lifestyle writer.

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IS MONTESSORI RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD? Allowing children to learn at their own pace in a classroom with mixed ages are two hallmarks of this educational philosophy.

BY RANDI MAZZELLA

hoosing the right preschool for your child isn’t easy, especially given the varied approaches each school has to early childhood education. Wyckoff mom Kendra Grompone investigated several preschools before deciding to send her then threeand-a-half-year-old son to a Montessori school in Wayne. “This was his first exposure to school having never been to daycare or preschool before,” Grompone says. “When I visited the Montessori school, I liked what I saw going on in the classroom. The philosophy doesn’t place a ceiling on what children can learn based on their age or any pre-conceived labels. Instead, there is no limit

on what a child can learn. Their learning is also self-driven by their own interests and not a set curriculum.”

WHAT IS MONTESSORI? Italian doctor and educator Maria Montessori developed this educational philosophy in the early 1900s based on her observations of how children learn. Dr. Montessori described a child’s mind between the time of birth and age six as “absorbent,” with a tremendous ability to soak up all kinds of information. Although Montessori-based programs are available for kids through high school, many parents choose

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“… AT MONTESSORI, CHILDREN HAVE THE FREEDOM TO CHOOSE WHAT THEY ARE LEARNING THAT DAY AND WHETHER THEY WANT TO WORK ALONE OR IN A GROUP. THE CLASSROOM IS CALM BECAUSE THE CHILDREN ARE EXCITED AND BUSY.” them for their younger children precisely because of the emphasis on the early years. Lina Masri has been a Montessori teacher for more than 15 years and recently founded the Mindful Montessori School in Old Tappan. “What drew me to Montessori was how organized and calm the classroom is even though children are doing different activities at different levels at the same time,” says the Ridgewood mother of three. “The children learn to work independently. They keep busy and they stay motivated by being able to go at their own pace.” Another characteristic of a Montessori education is a classroom with kids of mixed ages, so younger students learn naturally from older ones—and vice versa. “Having mixed ages learning together in the same classroom creates a small, collaborative community,” Grompone says. “It gives younger children the chance to learn from the older children. And older children gain confidence and self-esteem through being able to guide younger or new students in skills that they have mastered from reading to putting on a coat.”

THE MONTESSORI CLASSROOM Montessori schools implement their teachings in slightly different ways, but the basic elements include: • A mixed-age group of students •F reedom for kids to choose their own activities from the five Montessori “work areas” (see below) •L earning from tangible objects, interactive activities and hands-on exploration rather than from a teacher-driven lesson • Uninterrupted blocks of work time •A cooperative, calm environment with an emphasis on community • A curriculum individually tailored to each child Each of the five general work areas in a Montessori classroom includes toys, books, household items and other things kids can play with and explore on their own: • The “practical life area” is where kids play house and learn a variety of basic-but-crucial skills, like food prep (using play food and the real thing), pouring, sweeping and getting dressed— teaching them coordination, concentration and order. Getting the hang of those simple skills helps children navigate their day and become more confident and independent. • The “sensorial area” is geared toward developing the five senses. Kids examine objects of various colors, shapes, sizes, smells and tastes to figure out what they are and how they work.

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• The “mathematics area” teaches them how to count, recognize numbers, add, subtract, multiply and divide. Kids often play counting games, like pretending to be at a store or a bank, to apply what they’ve learned. • The “language area” fosters a child’s natural interest in reading through story time, reciting the alphabet and letter sounds, writing, listening and reading comprehension exercises, among other activities. • The “cultural area” is where kids learn about science, nature, wildlife, astronomy and geography (and sometimes they even pick up a foreign language), giving them perspective on the world around them.

THE CURRICULUM Unlike traditional schools, Montessori classrooms do not follow the same schedule each day (such as math at 9 am followed by reading at 10 am and then recess.) Instead, children are given the opportunity to learn at their own pace, choosing what they want to do on a given day. Some parents might be concerned that their child will gravitate toward only one station and not learn the essential skills taught in the others. But teachers observe the children in the classroom and make sure that they learn all the skills they need to be successful when they move to grade school. Although there isn’t a set curriculum, there are rules and a routine, so children know what to expect. “The children learn grace and courtesy lessons,” says Masri. “They know there are high expectations on them to follow the classroom rules such as cleaning up an area when they have completed their work.” Having children simultaneously working on different activities in the same classroom might sound chaotic but Masri says the opposite is true. “In a traditional classroom, children can get bored and act out because they are not being challenged,” Masri explains. “But at Montessori, children have the freedom to choose what they are learning that day and whether they want to work alone or in a group. The classroom is calm because the children are excited and busy.” Grompone understands why parents might have reservations about a Montessori education. Although it’s an old concept, the Montessori philosophy of allowing children to learn at their own pace may seem a little unconventional. “Before I went to see the school, I was skeptical,” Grompone says. “I had preconceived ideas of what a preschool program should include. I thought that kids needed structure, worksheets, to sit at desks, etc. and worried that ‘nontraditional instruction’ wouldn’t be right for my son. But once I saw the children in the classroom, I completely bought into the philosophy. I sent my two younger sons to Montessori preschool as well. All of my children are now in public schools and thriving due to the foundation they received at Montessori.” Randi Mazzella is a freelance parenting writer and mother of three.

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NAVIGATING The IEP Process PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH MARKLE

BY SARAH MARKLE

he moment your child receives a neurological diagnosis of any form, your life as a parent pivots in an instant. Whether it’s autism, SPD, OCD, selective mutism, epilepsy, CF or another condition, the term IEP is one you’ll be expected to immediately absorb. It’s a word nestled alongside your child’s diagnosis and is the legal document which, by law, states all the services your child is eligible to receive. This Individualized Education Plan (IEP) serves as your child’s protection of their right to the least restrictive environment to learn within the maximum extent it is appropriate to receive public education.

ADVOCATE FOR YOUR CHILD Did you just feel the collective new special needs parent

How COVID has changed things and what you can do as a parent to be your kid’s best advocate.

group go, “wait, what was that?” Reread that a few more times and I believe it will resonate positively with most parents of children with special needs. Your job as your child’s biggest advocate is to make sure this document harnesses all the services needed for your kid to learn and to thrive in their own specific, neurodiverse way. In New Jersey, your child is eligible to receive an IEP when they turn 3. This will include an intake of information, diagnosis documentation and most likely an initial consultation to gather the IEP team through your public school district. If you’ve used NJ’s Early Intervention program before your child’s third birthday, your point person through Early Intervention can steer you to the appropriate contact. This IEP team generally includes a case manager (your direct contact to the school district), a school psychologist, a general education teacher

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FROM LEFT: THE AUTHOR AND HER DAUGHTER, MILLY. FROM LEFT: LEE MARKLE, MILLY, MORGAN (8), SARAH AND MACK (3).

and any/all related service providers, which generally includes occupational and speech therapists. From there, each provider will schedule and evaluate your child’s needs to then be put into the IEP and used as a compass for their school year. From the first IEP meeting through the evaluations and observations, I highly recommend recording the sessions.

KEEP NOTES FOR REFERENCE “It is always a good idea to record the meeting,” says Lori Arons, a special education lawyer based in Hackensack. “An accurate account of exactly what transpired can be helpful in a variety of ways. Simply saying, ‘I am recording the meeting’ before the meeting starts is sufficient notice under the law.” Let the simplicity of this guidance carry you through and allow you to feel empowered under the law for your child. Those recordings can act on your behalf for legal purposes as well as for personal reference notes. As a parent, you are the advocacy navigation captain and knowing what was offered and discussed at any and all IEP meetings is going to pay dividends for your child as the school year marches on.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SARAH MARKLE

TAKE IN LESSONS LEARNED FROM LOCKDOWN

And to prove its legal strength, an IEP will in fact survive a global pandemic. Zoom conference calls have become second nature to those of us who have already gone through the process, but if you have not, do not fear. All of the same practitioners will attend your IEP Zoom call and stay tracked and charged with completing the IEP in the same official manner. Whatever your child’s school setting looks like, whether in a self-contained ABA classroom or if your child’s speech therapist is out of district, COVID has certainly changed the way we’ve

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educated all children across the board. I’ve found that within the structured parameters of Zoom therapies comes an immense adjustment for all, yet there is strength and lessons to be learned – that even our most regimented, routine-based kids can thrive. My daughter Milly, age 6, is on the autism spectrum and I’ve been able to witness a variety of virtual therapy sessions during this unprecedented time. It’s given me a birds-eye view in some capacities that, had we not all been in lockdown, I would have completely missed out on the opportunity to witness firsthand. It also gave me a clear look as to which therapists were having the greatest impact and bond with my daughter. That alone was an eye-opening experience.

SPEAK UP AND TRUST YOUR GUT In some ways, our lockdown, all-virtual IEP follow-up meetings and therapies gave me valuable time to pause and trust my gut when it came to my advocacy for her services. I was able to see how certain therapists positively pushed her to learn as well as take note of ones that were not working and causing unnecessary sensory meltdowns. Using that mindset given all the changes during COVID, I’m so happy to say my Milly has continued to thrive. Her IEP meeting in March went off without a hitch and I felt even more empowered in being able to have a closer view of her daily therapies and report back to the case manager where her strengths and weaknesses surfaced with much more motherly confidence. Let your voice be your greatest advocacy for your child. Speak up to the fullest extent you can in those IEP meetings as they will serve your child so very well. Sarah Markle is a mom of three kids, two of which have non-verbal autism, and is fueled by coffee, red wine and her children’s laughter.

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KEEPING KIDS ON TRACK AFTER COVID

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Why NJ’s schools need to accelerate (not remediate) learning after more than a year of remote instruction.

By LAURA WATERS

s children return to school in September after an unprecedented year of learning disruption, parents, teachers, principals, superintendents and the New Jersey Department of Education face huge challenges in getting students back on track. While some parents were able to supplement remote instruction through tutors and micropods, others—due to job responsibilities, childcare issues or lack of resources—were unable to keep their kids at grade level. How should we approach these challenges? How should teachers teach when a classroom includes children who had the support to keep up with their studies and other children who fell way behind? For instance, if your child is entering fourth grade, should teachers review third grade material to catch everyone up? Or should teachers go right to fourth grade material?

reading because it’s really hard to learn phonemic awareness through Zoom screens. While those conceptual gaps need to be filled in, he’s a year older and fully capable of critically thinking about second grade-level books. TNTP analysts say teachers and school leaders should run every concept through a simple test: “Will this help every student, regardless of the aspects of their identity, get back to grade level?” If it will, teach it. If it won’t, then accelerate student learning by continuing exposure to gradeappropriate content, while addressing students’ social-emotional needs.

THE WAY FORWARD

What’s the alternative to this acceleration strategy? That second grade teachers go back to first grade material, with the result that by the end of second grade your child will be missing the exposure he needs for what will be required in third grade. This becomes a vicious cycle that will continue throughout his K-12 education. That’s why we need that “fundamentally different strategy.” But how do we pay for it? Through the second largest infusion of federal funds schools have ever seen. The Biden Administration’s American Rescue Plan Act includes $125 billion for K-12 schools. Here’s what New Jersey is slated to receive: • $2,764,587,703 for New Jersey K-12 schools • $138.2 million reserved to address learning loss • $27.6 million reserved for summer enrichment • $27.6 million reserved for after-school programs This influx of funds is how schools can afford this acceleration strategy. And this is why there has never been a more important time for you to be your child’s advocate. Ninety percent of the American Rescue Plan money flows directly to districts (plans must be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Education this November). What is your school district doing to help teachers prepare for a different sort of instruction than they’ve been trained for? What summer and after-school programs is your district offering? Are they ignoring the data and planning on remediation instead of acceleration? And what about social-emotional support? Our kids have been through a traumatic year and possibly experienced personal loss. The federal money is intended to fund programs that can help students come to grips with unparalleled disruption and isolation. Be an informed advocate for your children. Speak to other parents, go to school board meetings and ask questions about your district’s approach. Assume the best, but be prepared to unleash your inner lion/ lioness to hold your district accountable for keeping kids on track.

Lucky for us, we know the answer to this quandary. Yet it will be up to parents to hold their district and school board’s feet to the fire and ensure everyone is following best practices. The COVID-19 pandemic took a terrible toll on student growth. In New Jersey, a study from the non-profit JerseyCAN found that, among the state’s K-8 students, approximately 393,000 are below grade level in reading and 430,000 are below grade level in math. Put another way, reading proficiency dropped from 58 percent in spring 2019 to 39 percent in fall 2020 to 34 percent in January 2021. Low-income children and students of color suffered the most loss. Question: What do we do now? Answer: Accelerate, don’t remediate. What does this mean? The national non-profit TNTP (formerly the The New Teachers Project) teamed up with Zearn, which supplies computer-based math instruction for one out of four American students, to compare results for classrooms where teachers used remediation and classrooms where teachers used acceleration. In more concrete terms, let’s say you have a child who is beginning fourth grade after a rocky third grade year. If a teacher is using remediation—“meeting students where they are”—he or she will go back to material missed during the previous year. If a teacher is using acceleration, he or she will stick to fourth grade material; the district will fill in gaps through one-on-one tutoring and summer/after school programs. TNTP found that kids who had access to acceleration did 27 percent better on grade-level work than kids doing remediation. They struggled less and learned more. The kids having remediation never caught up to grade level work and, researchers say they may never get there. From the report Accelerate, Don’t Remediate: “Schools need to be ready on the first day back with a fundamentally different strategy for diagnosing lost learning and putting every student on a fast track back to grade level—a strategy designed to accelerate their exposure to grade-appropriate work, not delay it.” Let’s say your second grader missed some important instruction in

“SCHOOLS NEED TO BE READY...FOR DIAGNOSING LOST LEARNING AND PUTTING EVERY STUDENT ON A FAST TRACK BACK TO GRADE LEVEL.” PUTTING RESOURCES BEHIND A NEW STRATEGY

Laura Waters is founder and managing editor of NJ Education Report (njedreport. com). She and her husband have four children and live in Lawrenceville.

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AN AGE-BY-AGE GUIDE TO KIDS’ MENTAL HEALTH How to talk to kids as they head back to school in person

By ARRICCA ELIN SANSONE

fter a very, very long year-and-a-half of uncertainty, most kids are resuming in-person school in the fall. And while that’s great news, it may not be smooth sailing for every child. “One of our major concerns for kids is anxiety in general,” says Christopher Lynch, PhD, director of pediatric behavioral medicine at Goryeb Children’s Hospital/Atlantic Health System Children’s Health in Morristown. “Some kids haven’t been in the classroom at all for almost 18 months. We’re also asking kids to do behaviors that weren’t safe or okay a short while ago, and that can be tough emotionally to absorb.” Fortunately, most kids adjust well and have positive changes in mood as soon as they return to school. But because we’ve just come through an unprecedented year, it’s still important to monitor your child’s mental health and watch for potential warning signs that they’re not coping well. “Kids express themselves through actions,” says Cheryl Ann Kennedy, MD, professor of psychiatry at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark. “Most kids— especially very young ones— are not going to be able to tell you ‘I’m feeling depressed or frustrated’ or ‘I had a bad night’s sleep.’” No matter what their age, if you see abrupt changes in your child’s behavior such as withdrawing or isolating from family and friends, overreacting to minor incidents or discipline or trouble sleeping or eating, talk to your pediatrician, who’s always your first line for support. Here’s what you can do to help your kids navigate the unique challenges of returning to in-person learning this fall:

TALK IT OVER

Ask how your child feels about returning to school. It’s a chance to hear his or her perspective and dispel rumors or misinformation your child may have heard. While it’s fine to say you’re concerned, too, focus on how your family will stay safe. “As parents, we’re modeling resilience

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and showing our kids how to process anxiety,” says Lynch. “It’s not about putting emotions aside but being able to understand our feelings and use them as guideposts for coping.”

GET YOUR KIDS IN A POSITIVE MINDSET

Like many things in life, perspective is everything. “You prepare for the new school year by buying new backpacks, uniforms or school supplies, and you can also help them prepare for good mental health,” says Kennedy. “Have a conversation about your family’s expectations— not that you want them to get all A’s, but that they agree to be willing to try their best, and you’re willing to work with them to help them through the school year.”

MAKE YOUNG KIDS FEEL SAFE

“The most significant challenge to kids from preschool to early elementary is helping them cope with changing rules and expectations,” says Lynch. “Young kids thrive on routine, and they like clear directions. It’s not as easy for them to adapt to changes as they unfold as it is for older children.” Help them feel protected by emphasizing the ways you’re going to work together to stay safe at school. “Don’t get focused on specific rules such as ‘mask/no mask’ but rather the reasons we’re asking them to do certain things,” says Lynch. “Kids are smart and will understand if you say something like, ‘We stay home when we’re sick so we don’t get other kids sick.’”

HELP GRADE SCHOOLERS LOVE LEARNING

“From 3rd to 5th grade, we’re transitioning now at this age from ‘school is social’ to ‘school is a place we go to learn,’” says Lynch. The emphasis should be on developing academic habits such as learning to concentrate on tasks and building good organizational skills, which a lot of kids missed out on during remote learning. Kids this age may be a little better about expressing frustration verbally by

saying something like, “I hate school!” This is an opportunity to talk about what’s specifically bothering them. For example, you may learn they love math but hate reading. Then talk about the reasons they may be struggling and find ways to offer support, such as a tutor. “You’re helping them move from being frustrated to problem-solving,” says Lynch.

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NURTURE MIDDLE SCHOOLERS’ FRIENDSHIPS

Middle school is a time of social development, when friendships begin to bond kids, and some kids may feel left out because they missed most social opportunities during the past 18 months, says Lynch. Your child may not be able to explain their feelings but will tend to show frustration by being irritable. This age group is all about the notion of “fairness,” so talk about what they missed and how they feel about it. Then help them get involved in activities and socializing again. It’s also common at this age for them to start to connecting more with their peers than you.

That’s fine as long as they’re not withdrawing completely.

ENCOURAGE HIGH SCHOOLERS TO FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

The main concern throughout high school is maintaining motivation in academics, sports, music, theater or whatever your child enjoys. “These activities provide kids with a mental anchor and they got disrupted, so it can be hard for them to get back into it,” says Lynch. Encourage them to pick these interests up again to help them stay connected and get inspired about their future. Granted, it may be tough to tell what’s “normal” for teens because hormones are surging and moods change by the minute. But as long as your kids have a supportive peer group, don’t worry too much if they seem to be rejecting you; it’s part of being a teen. But you know your child best. If anything is out of character, especially if it’s an abrupt change, trust your gut, says Kennedy. Reach out to your pediatrician and school resources for help.

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HELP YOUR KIDS DEAL WITH TEST ANXIETY

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By RONNIE KOENIG

or many students, academic rigor was down during the pandemic, which means there will be some anxiety about getting back to things like real tests (no more open book!). “Test-taking anxiety is about doubting our test-taking capabilities and our intelligence,” says Talia Filippelli, a psychotherapist and founder of Starr Therapy, based in Hoboken. “There’s that self-doubt: Am I going to pass or fail? I coach children to deliberately choose to believe in themselves,” she says. “We need to cultivate that mental strength by helping kids reflect on their past history. Most students can quickly come up with examples of taking a test in the traditional manner and they did just fine.” Here are some simple ways you can help prepare your child for exams or pop quizzes that come their way once school starts.

TEACH YOUR KID TO IDENTIFY STRESS TRIGGERS Kids (and parents) have certainly become familiar with stress over the past year-and-a-half, but when it comes to test-taking,

Exams and quizzes will be back when school reopens— make sure they’re ready.

ask kids to pin-point areas of stress. “We ask children to draw a picture of a body and circle the parts that bother them before taking a test,” says Filippelli. “We teach them to become aware of warning signs, like stomachaches, and then practice relaxation techniques to reverse the stress and its physical and emotional impacts. Children learn how to control stressors that were previously controlling them. It’s a powerful confidence-building process.”

DON’T DISMISS YOUR KID’S FEELINGS “While reassurance is natural and helpful in many situations, it doesn’t help with anxiety,” says Elisa Nebolsine, cognitive behavioral therapist and founder of CBT for Kids in McLean, Virginia and author of The Grit Workbook for Kids: CBT Skills to Help Kids Cultivate a Growth Mindset and Build Resilience. “Get specific. Help the child identify the problem. As a parent, you can ask: What are you most afraid of? What is the worst thing that can happen? How likely is it to happen? How would you cope with it if it did?”

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HELP PUT THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE

USE RELAXATION TECHNIQUES

“Develop an anxiety scale with your child,” says Nebolsine. “What would be number one, the easiest problem to handle? What would be number ten, the worst? Ask the child to grade the situation producing the anxiety on a scale of one to ten.”

Strategies like deep breathing can work wonders, says Nebolsine. “If kids are thinking ‘I’m going to fail,’ those thoughts are slowing them down and they’re not thinking as clearly,” she says. Box breathing, where you breathe in for a count of four, hold a breath for a count of four and then let it out to the count of four, is something she tells kids even Navy SEALs use when they’re in stressful situations. “It’s a way to calm down the limbic system,” she says, noting that kids respond to the fact that even people who are tough and strong utilize these same techniques.

For older kids, consistent studying at around the same time and in the same place can help them better recall information and become more efficient (versus cramming the night before). Take advantage of study skills resources which are offered at many schools.

HELP YOUR CHILD IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM. AS A PARENT, YOU CAN ASK: WHAT ARE YOU MOST AFRAID OF? WHAT IS THE WORST THING THAT CAN HAPPEN? HAVE A ‘DRESS REHEARSAL’ This works for younger kids (and older ones too!) to ease anxiety going into a test. Ask your child to play through what taking the test will be like in their imagination. “Have them play through it like a movie in their mind,” says Filippelli, which allows kids to interact with the thing that’s causing the stress. “Give them a chance to experience it,” she says.

GET BACK TO PREP COURSES For older students taking tests like the SAT, Filippelli says that the usual preparation action steps—like taking a course or practice tests will help to reduce anxiety. “Control is the antidote to anxiety,” she says.

PRACTICE TAKING FUN, TIMED TESTS AT HOME For younger kids, start with a one-minute, timed test on a subject that they like, suggests Nebolsine. “Reinforce her behavior with a fun reward, like playing a game. Gradually increase the length of time and difficulty of subject matter. In order for this to be effective, however, the child has to be on board that this is a way of helping her deal with the problem.”

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PRIME THEIR BRAINS AND BODIES In addition to studying, getting regular exercise and eating healthy foods can go a long way to helping your child not only ace the exam but rise to meet a stressful challenge like testtaking. Kids need to get outside move their bodies in nature, says Nebolsine. “Kids have struggled with not getting enough exercise during the pandemic and we know it’s correlated with learning.”

MAKE SURE THEY GET ENOUGH ZZZs When kids are tired, it’s impossible for them to perform at their highest levels. While sleep schedules may have gone out the window during COVID, it’s essential to get kids back to a good sleep routine. The CDC recommends 9-12 hours a night for school-aged children.

NORMALIZE THE STRUGGLE For all kids, a reminder that everyone is in the same boat coming back to the rigor of test-taking can be very helpful, says Nebolsine. Students should know their teachers are on the same page and will be taking the challenges of the past year-and-ahalf into consideration, she says. If you have concerns, speak to the teacher about test expectations and any additional resources available to help kids catch up.

CONSIDER PROFESSIONAL HELP If you feel like you’ve tried everything and your kid is still anxious and underperforming on tests even when she knows her stuff, you may want to consider professional help. Says Filippelli: “Talking over such problems with a professional arms a child with the life skills needed to function well, no matter what happens.”

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Help Your Child Ace Admissions Experts share their best tips to prep your kid for the private school application process.

By JENNIFER KANTOR

o, you’ve decided to go private. Whether prompted by the pandemic, or something you’ve always envisioned, making this decision is the first of many steps you’ll take to find the right fit. Unlike public school, however, the road to attending an independent school takes

some navigating. “While schools are looking to find students who will likely succeed socially and academically at their institution, families must determine if a particular school is the best fit for their child’s unique gifts and whether the school will reinforce the values that are most meaningful to them,” says Caitlin Read, director of enrollment management at The Elisabeth Morrow School in Englewood. “The goal of the process is to find a reciprocal fit.” Determining this coveted “fit” comes through a mutual process that includes everything from researching websites and attending open houses to the school’s effort to get to know your child through academic transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, portfolios, interviews and other potential assessments. Parents want to know how to help their children stand out and increase their chances of admittance to the right school for them. INQUIRE AND APPLY EARLY Get going, ASAP! “It’s much easier to spend quality time with families and help them get to know our school well before the crunch time of admission deadlines,” says Kelly Dun, director of enrollment management and financial aid at Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child in Summit. “Applying early also allows time for any follow-up information or questions that might come up in the process.” While the early bird definitely has an advantage, many schools do adopt rolling admissions post-deadline. “Don’t assume a school is no longer accepting applications,” says Dun. “There is no harm in reaching out to the admissions office to see if there are still spots available.” GET TO KNOW THE SCHOOL Your child is unique—schools are, too. Admission officers are especially interested when a family knows specifics about their school, says Dun. “We encourage families to do some research before entering the admission process.” This can mean deep diving into websites, reading reviews, speaking to families or attending an admission event to learn about the school’s mission

and goals to see if they align with yours. BE READY TO TALK ABOUT IT “The families that stand out during the application process for me are the ones that come prepared for the interview,” says Ann Marie Blackman, assistant director of admission and financial aid at Gill St. Bernard’s School in Gladstone. “Becoming familiar with our mission and core values and knowing that they align with what is important to their family is a great starting point for conversations.” So have insightful questions and talking points in mind to keep the conversation engaging for all. WHY DO YOU THINK IT’S A GOOD FIT? “Be sure to take the time to tell your story and help the admission committee learn why you think your child will thrive at their school,” says Dun. Schools want to know how your child’s special qualities and talents will enhance the school community, and their plans for getting involved in the school. This can mean anything from playing lacrosse and joining the Shakespeare club to studying Latin and doing research in the school’s state-of-the art science lab. “We want to know their goals which can include courses they wish to take, honor roll placement, leadership opportunities, activities they wish to participate in, and even goals for college and life,” says Miguel Cabrita, assistant principal and director of admissions at Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen.

“ DON’T ASSUME A SCHOOL IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS. THERE’S NO HARM IN REACHING OUT.” DON’T JUST WING IT Few kids are naturals at having high-stakes, off-the-cuff conversations with total strangers. Prepping beforehand can take some of the pressure off everyone. “We never want children to come across as coached or rehearsed, but it’s a good idea to go over the kinds of questions they might be asked, and to think of some specific examples so they can recall them more easily when they meet with an admissions officer,” says Read. Parents should encourage kids to practice discussing what excites them about

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learning, favorite books, projects that inspired them, any awards or accolades, etc. “This makes them feel more engaged in the process,” she says. Also, remind your child to try to answer each question thoughtfully (even if they need to take a pause) instead of replying with a reactive “I dunno.”

REMIND YOUR CHILD TO TRY TO ANSWER EACH QUESTION THOUGHTFULLY (EVEN IF THEY NEED TO TAKE A PAUSE) INSTEAD OF REPLYING WITH A REACTIVE, “I DUNNO.”

EMPHASIZE OUTSIDE INTERESTS Athletics, arts, community service, coding, robotics, entrepreneurship, competitive spelling, astronomy... whatever your child loves, make sure you share it. “One of our taglines here at Gill is that ‘Balance Matters,’” says Blackman. “It’s important that students get the opportunity to explore their passions in addition to their academics. Students that have that balance in their lives stand out.” PUT YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD From good grooming, a proper outfit and eye contact, the niceties are important for making a positive first impression. “Remembering where you are and who you are meeting with should help you decide what to wear,” says Cabrita. Rolling in wearing sneakers and sweats won’t impress officers at a traditional academy with a dress code. Likewise, a suit and tie may not wow admissions at a school that’s known for creative expression. No

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matter what, manners matter. A good handshake, saying “yes” not “yeah” or nodding, showing respect and courtesy, smiling throughout the interview, saying thank you at its conclusion…are all things that matter. HAVE A TOP PICK? LET YOUR #1 KNOW Don’t be shy—let your first-choice school know that is the case and why. “Providing specific reasons why a school is at the top of your list will help the admission committee understand your expectations and to better determine if your child is a good match,” says Dun. In some cases, sheer enthusiasm can even make up for a lackluster transcript. “I love outstanding students but I also love hard-working A/B/C students who want to be a part of our school community and get involved,” says Donna Venezia Toryak, director of admissions at Mount Saint Mary Academy in Watchung. “I think a student who really wants to be here will overcome any academic skill weakness, and make it a successful journey. If they share their interests with me and talk about what they’d like to get involved in once here, that impresses me.” Don’t forget: Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep and has a light nosh pre-interview and schedule the meeting early in the day (especially for younger kids) since they tend to be more upbeat and attentive. Oh, and relax. Children pick up on stress from adults so parents should be conscious of their own anxieties. “It can also be helpful to remember that admissions professionals want to see applicants in the best possible light,” says Read. And with a little help, your child will shine bright. Jennifer Kantor is a parenting and lifestyle writer. She lives in Maplewood with her husband and two kids.

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BULLIES IN SCHOOL What to do if your child is being bullied

easing among kids is normal, but bullying takes conflict to a dangerous level and can sometimes result in extreme psychological and/or physical harm. In some ways, virtual learning gave our kids a much-needed break from bullying in school. But with the 24-7 nature of social media, our virtual world leaves ample opportunities for bullies to attack, whether or not school is in person. Essex County second grader Kayla* was targeted by a bully during an innocent school Valentine’s Day exchange. As she opened her cards (which had been collected and distributed by the school), the 7-year-old’s heart sank. One pink, handwritten letter ended with the sinister message, “PS: I hope you die from COVID-19.” Shocked, Kayla’s mother immediately reached out to the school’s principal, but heard nothing back. It wasn’t until she submitted a formal letter to the school (with the help of an educator friend who “knew the lingo”) that she received a response. The school’s solution was to schedule a virtual meeting between the two children; the bully apologized and gave Kayla a new Valentine. Even so, the incident *Name changed for privacy

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had far-reaching consequences for Kayla, who is nervous about being in school in the fall. While bullying is nothing new, today’s kids are under constant attack due to the prevalence of social media sites like Facebook, Snapchat and TikTok. “There is no break. There is no respite,” says West Orange marriage and family therapist Laurel Raissman. She advocates against bullying as part of Mallory’s Army. The organization was founded by Diane Grossman, whose daughter Mallory committed suicide in 2017—a result of relentless bullying at school and online. In Mallory’s case, the school’s actions made things worse, not better. “If bullying happens in school, it’s the school’s responsibility, but the schools sometimes turn a blind eye,” Raissman says. With so much at stake, what can we do to protect our kids from bullies? We got to the bottom of what defines bullying and sought advice from the experts.

WHAT IS BULLYING? Bullying is defined as “unwanted aggressive behavior by another

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By HEIDI L. BORST

Try These Tips If Your Child Is the Bully: • Don’t downplay the situation. If you find out your child is bullying other kids, it’s important to address it with school counselors and communicate with other parents. • Be empathetic as a parent. Modeling is the best way for a desired behavior to resonate with our children, and caring about the feelings of others is an important quality. • Talk to your child about what’s going on in their life—maybe they’re being bullied at school or at home themselves and acting out the same behavior as a result. • Meet with your child’s teacher to gain their perspective, then work as a team to find as a solution. Most importantly, let your child know you’re in it together and you’ll help them work things out. • Seek counseling and/or behavior modification to help your child become more empathetic if they continue to bully.

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / FATCAMERA

—SOURCE: STOMPOUTBULLYING.ORG

youth or group of youths... that involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or highly likely to be repeated. Bullying may inflict harm or distress on the targeted youth including physical, psychological, social or educational harm,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But Steven Tobias, Psy.D., director of the Center for Child & Family Development in Morristown and co-author of Emotionally Intelligent Parenting: How to Raise a Self-Disciplined, Responsible, Socially Skilled Child, says that “bullying is in the eye of the bullied,”

and it should be more loosely defined. “If the target perceives it as being hurtful, then it’s bullying, and if a child is being hurt physically or emotionally, it needs to be taken very seriously,” says Tobias. “Don’t tell the kid to ignore the bully. That’s the worst advice a parent can give. One, it’s extremely difficult for the child to do, and two, it’s not really resolving the issue for the child and for the bully.” “I have a 17-year-old client that has Asperger’s, and all through middle school there were these three boys who called him names every day,” says Raissman. “They called him retarded. They called him stupid. He’s very quiet. He’s also very smart, but it really took a toll on him. When you consistently go after someone who you perceive is weaker than you, you’re a bully.”

PAY ATTENTION TO THE SIGNS Look out for any changes in behavior. “Kids who are bullied often withdraw socially,” says Tobias. They get embarrassed and they lose confidence in their ability to engage in social situations, or they start avoiding them because they’re worried the bully is going to be there,” he says. “First of all, they don’t want to go to school,” says Raissman. “They have all kinds of reasons. They have a stomachache; they have a headache. You have to really take every single clue and be very hyper aware,” she says. Don’t be afraid to do a bit of detective work. Unexplained injuries are an obvious sign, but be aware of changes in sleep, heightened anxiety, academic difficulties and eating problems (eating less or eating more), which Tobias says are indicators a child is going through a stressor like bullying.

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Be proactive by having a discussion with your child about bullying, both from the perspective of the target and the bully, before an incident occurs. “The worst time to talk about a problem is during the problem, so if your child is already being bullied, they are less likely to come and talk to you,” Tobias says. “A lot of times, kids think that they should handle it on their own or they will internalize it, thinking ‘there’s something wrong with me and that’s why I’m being treated this way.’” Parents should ask their kids, “What is bullying? Have you ever seen anybody being bullied? Have you bullied anybody?” says Raissman. She believes bullying should be a part of every school’s curriculum and should include what bullying is and why people bully. “You have to give children a forum to have their voices heard,” she says. If your child tells you they’re being bullied, provide reassurance that you’ll handle the situation together in a way they’re comfortable with. “A lot of times kids are resistant to talking to their parents about it because they’re afraid the bully is going to find out and they’re just going to be targeted even more—it’s very important to partner with the school in a way that’s not going to make your child feel worse,” Tobias says.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHILD IS BULLIED In addition to providing emotional support to your child, problem-solve together about how to deal with the situation rather than telling them what to do. “If somebody gives you good advice, but you just can’t follow it, it doesn’t help,” says Tobias. “If anything, it often makes you feel worse. Problemsolving needs to be with the child, not for the child.” Make sure not to downplay bullying with your child. “Don’t ever say: ‘This is not a big deal’; ‘Everybody gets bullied’;

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‘Toughen up’ (or any of those standard lines),” adds Raissman. “Bullying is not funny.” It’s also extremely important for your child’s school to be aware of what’s going on. “If it’s happening in school, it’s their responsibility to do something about it, and it’s likely that your child is not the only one being bullied; they can investigate if other kids are being targeted as well,” says Tobias. Not only is it important for the school to address what’s happening to the target, it’s important they work with the bully too. “There’s something going on with the kid who picks on other kids,” adds Tobias. “Sometimes the bully is being bullied by others. Sometimes there’s a stressor going on in that child’s life, whether it’s at home, whether it’s academic difficulties or the kid’s depressed. It’s important that we see the bully also as experiencing some kind of psychological difficulty.” There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to bullying, and sometimes you have to get creative. Maybe that means the child hanging out near teachers so they become aware of the bullying without the child having to report it, or hanging out with friends so they can back the child up. Most of all, it’s vital that parents and schools follow up, asking the child if the problem is resolved and how things are going. “Sometimes things work for a while and then stop working,” admits Tobias. “Sometimes if bullies are held accountable, then they lay low for a while before they resume it, so follow up in terms of what’s going on—look for opportunities to give the kid time and space to share things.” If your child is the target of a bully and their school is not taking action, visit stopbullying.gov for help. Heidi L. Borst is a mother, writer and nutrition coach based in Wilmington, NC.

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Get to know independent schools in NJ and beyond.

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MORRISTOWN-BEARD SCHOOL 70 WHIPPANY RD., MORRISTOWN • 973-539-3032 • MBS.NET

A School Where Students Pursue Deep Learning

f you’re searching for exceptional academics in a supportive community, Morristown-Beard School may be the right place for your student. MBS is a private, independent, coeducational day school with students in the Middle School (grades 6-8) and Upper School (grades 9-12) representing more than 85 districts throughout New Jersey. At MBS, students will find small class sizes and teachers who ask them to go beyond the surface and engage in deep learning. MBS graduates are powerfully prepared for learning and for life, no matter what path they choose to pursue. A PLACE OF POSSIBILITIES Parents and students love the numerous opportunities available at MBS for students to discover their passions and explore different things. “The faculty care deeply about our students and support each one’s self-discovery as a learner and as a member of the greater community,” says Director of Enrollment Management Rob Mitchell. “Students are empowered to take ownership of their own academic journey at MBS, and there are numerous pathways they can pursue. The ability for our students to take the lead is a critical component of an MBS education.” MBS faculty and staff nurture the individual passions their students possess. “Whether in the classroom, on stage or on the field, our students take advantage of the many possibilities to engage their skills and talents,” says Mitchell. “They can choose from countless academic electives, clubs, community service programs, arts and athletics; all supported by state-of-the-art facilities and accomplished faculty and staff. The MBS difference is entrenched in the leadership of our students. We give them the tools they need to succeed.” Balance is essential to an MBS education

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SOS is an educational tool designed by NOAA that uses computers and video projectors to display planetary data on a 6-foot diameter sphere.

and students here participate in everything from arts to athletics. Even if a student has never played a sport, they are encouraged to join the team. The same goes for participation in theater, music and dance. Clubs focused on diversity highlight the inclusive environment at MBS. STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES AND SO MUCH TO DO MBS is a place for experiential, handson, learning. Their signature academic programs, such as “Learning Outside the Classroom Walls” and “Social Emotional Competencies” in Middle School, as well as “Independent Studies” and the “Interdisciplinary Concentrations Program” (ICP) in Upper School, set them apart. “Experiential learning is central to the future of MBS, and forms a cornerstone of the newest strategic plan, as we aspire to help students make connections between their classes and the world beyond school,” says Head of School Liz Morrison. A highlight of the beautiful 22-acre campus is the Center for Innovation & Design (CID), 8,000 square feet of flexible space for students to design, experiment and problem solve. The 25,000 square-foot Math & Science Center and Science on a Sphere® (SOS) are a big draw for students.

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INNOVATIVE ACADEMICS KEEP STUDENTS ENGAGED MBS just launched its newest signature program, the Interdisciplinary Concentrations Program. The ICP offers pathways for students eager to explore an aspect of the world that transcends individual classes, disciplines and extracurricular pursuits. Students may apply for any one of three concentration pathways at the end of their freshman year: “Arts and Innovation,” “Global Citizenship” and “Ethics, Leadership, Justice.” Working weekly with a concentration advisor and a cohort of peers, students will progress through sophomore, junior and senior year committing to electives, independent projects, discussions, retreats and community service opportunities that further their journey down a concentration pathway to real world experiences. “MBS is a leader in student engagement and empowerment,” says Morrison. “Our faculty are experts in their disciplines, but more importantly, they understand the incredible abilities our students possess and seek to partner with them to further their academic and personal development.” At MBS, the aim is not just covering content and scoring well on tests; it’s analytical and creative thinking and real understanding. Students are encouraged to take risks, push into challenging new territory and explore all their talents. Students thrive at MBS and graduate well prepared for the challenges of college and university studies. Their skills in thinking, writing and time management set them apart, while the qualities of mind they develop position them for long-term success.

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NEWARK ACADEMY 91 SOUTH ORANGE AVE., LIVINGSTON • 973-992-7000 • NEWARKA.EDU

Reimagining Rigor to Ignite a Passion for Learning

rewarding. Being a member of a team is an experience that Newark Academy feels will be enriching for all students. Student opinions are also valued in decision-making processes at NA. Students take on leadership roles on the Honor Council, the Equity & Inclusion Team, and the Curriculum Committee, to name a few. The Student Voice proposal process has resulted in new policies and changes at the school.

ewark Academy has been helping its students achieve academic excellence and embody intellectual curiosity since 1774. It’s one of the oldest independent day schools in the country, located on a 68-acre campus in Livingston. The school engages sixth through twelfth graders in a range of transformational learning experiences. NA is fulfilling its mission by reimagining rigor and instilling in students a genuine curiosity about the world around them so they can become accomplished scholars with a passion for learning. A SCHOOL WITH A GLOBAL VIEW Newark Academy is the first school in New Jersey to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) course of study and diploma program. The coursework offered through the IB program is the gold standard in fostering global perspectives and promoting diverse learning experiences. “Newark Academy is a global school,” says Director of Admission and Enrollment Management Keith Fischer. “In addition to our students coming from more than 90 local communities, we have a number of international students as well.” Another example of NA’s commitment to global education is its Immersion Experiences. Every Upper School student participates in a cultural/linguistic, cultural/service or wilderness/outdoor immersive experience, fostering a deeper understanding of other cultures as well as a sense of self-exploration. NA continues to create experiences that broaden students’ horizons. LEARNING BY DOING Rather than focus on memorization of facts and figures, NA students learn how to think critically, consider complex issues and put thought into action. This emphasis

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on experiential learning takes center stage during June Term, a two-week period when Upper School students take a deep dive into subjects ranging from rocketry and app development to language construction. In the Middle School, hands-on learning occurs through classroom projects like stock market investing, building roller coasters, debate, play writing and film production. Students complete the year with meaningful and engaging Capstone Experiences that promote communication, teamwork and self-reflection. With more than 60 clubs and organizations available to students, they learn and develop into strong leaders outside of the classroom as well. From the Philosophy Club to the Mock Trial Team, to student government to the Minuteman (the school newspaper), to on-stage productions and award-winning musical groups and classes, students have the opportunity to find their passions and continue their growth outside of the classroom. NA’s commitment to athletic excellence across the school’s 25 sports ensures that students receive an outstanding student-athlete experience. This is accomplished through programs that are competitive, highly organized, grounded in solid fundamentals, character oriented and emotionally

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INCLUSIVITY AND CONNECTIONS Newark Academy strives to be a welcoming community, where everyone’s known and feels a genuine sense of belonging. That sense of belonging begins with each of our students bringing their own unique identity to NA. Fifty-eight percent of students identify as people of color and 18 percent of students identify as being part of one or more typically under-represented minority groups. “We are diverse by design,” says Fischer. “We know that being able to build relationships and share ideas with others is one of the essential abilities needed for success.” Newark Academy students also have diverse interests. A high-performing athlete can take part in the winter musical and a student who loves computer programming can earn a spot in the school’s nationally recognized jazz band. Fischer notes “Diversity of all kinds benefits the individuals and enriches our entire community.” NA students and alums are connected by a unique educational experience. There are nearly 5,000 alumni within the NA community who are invited to several events throughout the year to stay connected with the school. From visits to the NA campus and fun-filled events in cities around the United States, to innovative, virtual opportunities for career and personal development, NA offers something for alums at every life stage.

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ACADEMY OF THE HOLY ANGELS 315 HILLSIDE AVE., DEMAREST • 201-768-7822 • HOLYANGELS.ORG

AHA’s ‘All-Girl Advantage’ Now Begins in Grade Six

elcome to the Academy of the Holy Angels, where “The All-Girl Advantage” is a passport to a world of aspiration, exploration, and innovation. This fall, girls will begin their journey early. The 2021 opening of the AHA Middle School made the Academy the only area school that offers an all-girl education that extends from grade 6 through high school. AHA Middle School renews the Academy’s tradition of educating young girls. AHA recommitted to offering a Holy Angels education to girls in grades 6-8 to meet the growing need for girls to receive a solid foundation to prepare for high school. PLOTTING A COURSE “All-girl education provides girls with every opportunity and AHA Middle School will be a place where girls take the lead,” says AHA President Melinda A. Hanlon. AHA fosters confident, self-reliant women who accept leadership roles, actively participate in mostly-male gatherings from the college classroom to the executive boardroom, and are quickly closing the gender gap in many fields, including STEM careers. Students at all-girls’ schools are more likely to study math and chemistry, explore unfamiliar subjects, and say “yes” to challenges, according to the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools. All-girls’ schools that tailor-make programs for young women, including AHA’s bespoke critical thinking and oral presentation course at Oxford University, improve students’ self-esteem and wellbeing. AHA’s faculty members provide expert mentorship by considering students as individuals. Women mentors and peer role models

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show Angels what’s possible. In addition, the Office of Academic & College Counseling keeps students apprised of outstanding enrichment options, including the Governor’s Schools and the Perry Outreach Initiative. PIONEERS IN ALL-GIRL EDUCATION The School Sisters of Notre Dame established AHA in 1879 with the goal of providing each young woman with the

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tools she needs to reach the fullness of her potential. Angels grow spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically, as they receive a first-rate education in a nurturing environment where equal importance is placed on academics, character, integrity and service. All are welcome! While Holy Angels is steeped in Catholic tradition, the Academy serves young women from various backgrounds.

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CHATHAM DAY SCHOOL 700 SHUNPIKE RD., CHATHAM • 973-410-0400 • CHATHAMDAYSCHOOL.ORG

Small by Design, Outside by Providence

hatham Day School’s David Buffum always appreciated his sprawling campus. Last year, when he saw more clearly what it could be, he absolutely loved it. “I wouldn’t call us an outdoor school, but to have the ability at any given time to go outside, to use our footprint, is big,” says Buffum, Head of School. “It took a while to see the nose right in front of our face, which is that we’re surrounded by this beautiful 15 acres of nature. Why wouldn’t we walk the kids on a little mulch trail back into the grotto? We realized that what appeared to be good to react to coronavirus is an effective way to educate students in general.” ENROLLMENT UP, NOT CLASS SIZE Learning what works best for education is what Chatham Day does. The school, usually just called CDS, prides itself on “Small by Design,” which means class sizes don’t exceed 14 students for preschoolers through 8th graders. It means differentiated teaching strategies under universal design method. The school is seeing a big enrollment bump during COVID, as it remained open with a litany of safety protocols. Parents were attracted to the small class sizes. And Buffum has no plans to increase those sizes—despite opening last year with 152 students and expecting some 175 students this year. He’ll repurpose outdoor areas as natural classrooms, buying whatever furniture is needed. He’ll add second sections at each grade as necessary. “We will not sacrifice on size of class,” he says. “We will hire more teachers and use more of our space. We’ve gone to two sections in a majority of grades now. Rather than adding a 15th or 16th person to a class, we’ve split it and made two

classes of eight, or a seven and an eight. We feel very strongly about holding to that philosophy of small classes, because that really is the most important part of our mission.” BEING KIDS A LITTLE LONGER One of Buffum’s favorite parts of CDS is that as a preschool-8 school, eighth graders are like high school seniors. They assume the mantle of leadership

as their schoolmates look up to them. But they retain just enough “kid” in them to enjoy the silliness of joining those younger students for a holiday assembly rendition of “Frosty the Snowman.” In an age where kids seem to grow up too fast, it’s a delicate balance Buffum treasures. “We are able to have them be kids for longer,” he says. “At a preschool through eight you keep that alive for longer.”

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CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY 850 NEWMAN SPRINGS RD., LINCROFT • 732-747-1959 • CBALINCROFTNJ.ORG

Brothers to One Another, in School and Life

hen you ask parents of Christian Brothers Academy students, it’s never just one trait they like most about their sons’ educational experience. “They are always impressed with the formation of our students as complete individuals,” says Director of Enrollment Management Jennifer Maccarella. “They value academics and understand how the foundation provided at CBA provides the building blocks for success, but more so they seek a CBA education for their son because they know he will develop into a man of character and faith with strong morals and principles.” Character is an intangible quality that’s easy to notice, difficult to teach. But at CBA, those with it are called Academy men. DEVELOPMENT AND INSPIRATION Identifying and developing Godgiven gifts and talents for use in service has been the keystone of CBA since its 1959 founding by Dr. George Sheehan and Messrs. Peter Fleming and John Henderson. The school, rooted in the Lasallian tradition, has now educated more than 11,500 young men. It has won two National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence awards along the way, the latest in 2017. CBA offers nearly 50 extracurricular and co-curricular activities, the latter of which include robotics and media and broadcasting. There are 18 varsity sports, most with sub-varsity teams, too. There is Pegasus Production Company, the student-run theater group, and nine music offerings in the performing arts department, including Jazz Band and Pipes & Drums Band. Pedagogy is also paired with faith at a school that has daily theology classes and morning mass, as well as school-wide masses throughout the year.

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“CBA seeks to meet each young man where we find him,” says Dean of Students Matt Meehan. “Develop him as a whole person, and inspire him to develop an other-centered, Christian ethos.” COMMUNITY AT THE CENTER OF ALL Perhaps the best compliment for Academy men is they typically do double the amount of service the school requires. Take the Class of 2021. Fifty hours of

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service were required for graduation. They completed 21,840 hours of service, or 105 per man. “Community is at the center of the CBA experience,” Meehan says. “From day one, our boys are reminded they are to be brothers to one another. Serving others is the truest externalization of their God given gifts and talents and lessons learned at CBA. Our boys learn quickly that they are to become builders of others.”

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THE CRAIG SCHOOL CAMPUSES 10 TOWER HILL RD., MOUNTAIN LAKES • 24 CHANGEBRIDGE RD., MONTVILLE • 973-334-1234 • CRAIGSCHOOL.ORG

Individualized Success The Craig School Way

r. Kara Loftin joined The Craig School as headmaster in July 2020 and it didn’t take long for her to put a name on what she saw as the school’s defining program. The Craig School Way. “There are five essential pieces to The Craig School Way,” Loftin says. “The first is multi-sensory instruction woven through any course, any grade. The second is structured literacy, followed by parent-student partnerships with bilateral communication. The fourth element is organizational skills. Finally, whole student development, which focuses on academic, executive functioning and socialemotional growth to move students toward independence as learners and thinkers in this global society.” EDUCATING STUDENTS AND STAFF The Craig School began in 1980 as an elementary school and added a high school in 2000. Now, The Craig School serves 135 students in grades 2-12. Grades 2-8 are housed on the Mountain Lakes campus, with grades 9-12 on the School’s Montville campus. All students are taught using an adaptive and responsive program within an OrtonGillingham instructional framework. This is a well-established approach that includes multi-sensory learning and assistive technology. Dr. Loftin notes that professional development is a key tenet of education at The Craig School. “Providing opportunities for professional development that not only include knowledge acquisition but hands-on application in the classroom is important to providing the best educational programming available for students with learning differences,” she says. “By bringing specialists to partner and work with our faculty, they are at

the forefront of what is happening in the field of exceptionalities. Faculty are well versed in current research and this happens through intentional teacher development.” MEETING THEM WHERE THEY ARE The Craig School was able to open five days a week last year, with plans to do the same this year. While all schools talk about the need to meet students where they are in their educational

journey, this is even more important with neurodiverse students. “We have very individualized academic programs that are carefully and thoughtfully put together for our students,” Dr. Loftin says. “Assessment, observations and parent interviews inform our students’ educational plans. That coupled with high-quality teaching provides the tools for our students to shine.” Call it The Craig School Way.

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DELBARTON SCHOOL 230 MENDHAM RD., MORRISTOWN • 973-538-3231 • DELBARTON.ORG

Where Brotherhood is Simply “Who We Are”

elbarton School is back— and better than ever. This fall, when this all boys (grades 7-12) Benedictine Catholic school’s 650 students return, the 187-acre campus will feature an updated science pavilion with a large STEM maker space; St. Benedict Hall, a library/guidance center that opened in April; and ongoing construction of a field house with modern amenities and spaces. The school is also enhancing its curriculum, moving from trimesters to semesters, and adding more bus routes to encourage students from 3 states and 120 towns to participate in its co- and extracurricular offerings. “We are blessed because our teachers are excellent, our facilities are superb, our learning environment is unparalleled—but the main draw of Delbarton is the culture of brotherhood beyond the classroom,” says Dean of Admission Dr. David Donovan. “Campus is bustling again…and this place feels better than ever.” NEARLY 1,500 YEARS OF LESSONS The Benedictine monks of St. Mary’s Abbey, a religious order founded in 529 BCE, opened Delbarton’s college-like campus in 1939. A recent survey showed satisfaction rates of Delbarton families and alumni higher than brands like Apple. That’s due in part to a program that features 26 Advanced Placement courses, championship teams in 16 varsity sports and a dynamic Mission & Ministry program with 23 service initiatives. The Delbarton Incubator course and a Business Center offering Bloomberg terminals broaden the School’s curriculum, and so do the 36,000 square foot Arts Center and robust global travel and exchange program. During the pandemic, Delbarton was

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committed to teaching its students inperson, respecting all mandates, and fully intends to do the same this fall. But programs and protocols alone don’t make an exceptional school. Transforming boys into ethical, responsible and inquisitive young men does. The School also offers a strong alumni network to support its graduates. LENDING A HELPING HAND This year’s school theme is “Renewing

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traditions; renewing ourselves” and one of Donovan’s favorite traditions is financial aid outreach. The school distributes $3.5 million in grants annually, averaging about $27,000. By every measure, diversity matters at Delbarton. “We have families from very different economic incomes who might not think they qualify, but are surprised that they do,” he says. “Cost should never be a reason not to apply.”

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FRANKLIN SCHOOL 88 TOWN SQUARE PL., JERSEY CITY • 201-234-4781 • FRANKLINJC.ORG

An Educational Start at 150 Years Old

he foundation of the new Franklin School opening in Jersey City in fall 2022 dates back to 1872. But its high school pedagogy is anything but dated. “We’re delighted to bring together the latest thinking, expert educators and partners in the vibrant Jersey City community to launch the new Franklin, laying the foundation for students to chart their own course to top-tier colleges and universities,” says Vice Chancellor Blake Spahn. The forefather of today’s Franklin was founded in New York City nearly 150 years ago. When Dr. M.C. Spahn became Franklin’s headmaster in 1950, he started a three-generation family tradition of educational excellence. His son, Chancellor Stephen Spahn, has spearheaded Franklin affiliate, Dwight School in New York, since 1967 and is the longest-serving head of an independent school in the U.S. He and his son, Vice Chancellor Blake Spahn, have expanded Dwight globally, with campuses in London, Seoul, Shanghai, Dubai and Dwight Global Online School—ranked by Newsweek as the second-best online high school in the U.S. APPLIED LEARNING BY DOING A Franklin education prioritizes applied learning—meaning learning by doing. Students pursue their own interests with a hands-on curriculum that includes design and tech courses, art, digital design and fabrication, programming, robotics, architecture and more in Franklin’s stateof-the-art Makerspace. The school will emphasize technology as a tool for exploration and invention, and each student will develop a “passion project” in an incubator-style setup. There will also be a range of Advanced

Placement, elective and micro-courses introducing students to different career paths, clubs and after-school activities. AGENCY OVER THEIR FUTURE The school’s tagline, “Educating Innovators—Shaping the Future,” speaks to Franklin’s forward-thinking curriculum. “We’re dedicated to empowering students to pursue their passions, develop real-world readiness, and

have agency over their future,” Blake Spahn says. “We believe that applied learning is the key to making this vision a reality, so our curriculum, which sets Franklin apart from other high schools, is designed to provide students with as many hands-on, experiential learning opportunities as possible within and beyond the classroom. Our graduates will venture into the world ready to succeed as innovators and socially responsible global leaders.”

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GILL ST. BERNARD’S SCHOOL PO BOX 604, ST. BERNARD’S RD., GLADSTONE • 908-234-1611 • GSBSCHOOL.ORG

A Community of Learning, For College and Beyond

n the world of independent schools, the phenomenon of getting caught up in the “rat race” for college placement is one Gill St. Bernard’s knows all too well. “For many, college is seen as the finish line,” says Eric Loy, Associate Director of Marketing. “What makes GSB different is our commitment to not just preparing students for academic success at top colleges and universities, but providing students with a true foundation— educationally, socially, and intellectually —for a meaningful life. “Our students are more than a test score and more than a stat line. Education is more than meets the eye.” GSB’S NORTH STAR? BALANCE Gill St. Bernard’s was established in 1900 with the founding of St. Bernard’s School and merged with The Gill School (founded in 1934) in 1972. There are 24 buildings, a working farm, a trout stream, and a performing arts and community center on the 208-acre, collegiate-style campus for preschool to 12th grade students. While academics are rigorous, the guiding principle at GSB is balance. “Balance means combining our curriculum, impressive arts and athletic programs, experiential learning opportunities, character development, and an ever-growing list of extracurricular activities,” Loy says. “That notion of balance is the difference between being challenged and being pushed.” Alumnus Eddie McCarthy (Class of ’20) puts it even simpler: “Wherever it is you want to grow as a person, GSB is going to help you get there.” FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS, SAFELY During COVID, GSB was open for

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in-person instruction every day last year for all of its students and is requiring employees to be fully vaccinated at the start of this school year. It will keep its daily cleaning protocols in light of students who may be ineligible for vaccines or only partially vaccinated when school starts. Hand sanitizer stations will also remain in place. But even with rigid protocols last year, GSB takes prides in what it was able to

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accomplish. “As a small school by design, GSB is a place where both students and families can get involved, find their voice, and truly make a difference,” Loy says. “Whether you’re participating in a classroom project, on a sports team, in a club, or at a Parent’s Association event, families create meaningful relationships with one another. There’s support every step of the way.”

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LACORDAIRE ACADEMY 155 LORRAINE AVE., UPPER MONTCLAIR • 973-744-1156 • LACORDAIREACADEMY.COM

A Joy Bubble of Creative Problem Solvers

acordaire Academy Director of Admissions Saydi CallahanKeefe sees a delicate balance around her at this unique Catholic school. The three-acre campus blends the coziness of a small school with an academic rigor that prepares its graduates—for boys, that’s eighthgraders; for girls, it’s senior year—to enter an ever-more complicated world. “Lacordaire is an age-appropriate joyful bubble,” Callahan Keefe says. “It’s a wholesome, small-school education. But we want them to be strong as they cross that graduation stage. To be ready for the outside world knowing how to be flexible, knowing how to creatively solve problems.” COLLEGE PREP, DOMINICAN STYLE Lacordaire was founded in 1920 by the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell, NJ. From its start as a French-English school for girls, it evolved into a Lower, Middle and Upper School, housed on a campus that is home to some 288 students. Lacordaire is a coeducational school from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, and girls-only for high school. It’s led by a veteran leadership team that works together to meet its Dominican goals. “High schools know that students from Lacordaire are going to show up and know how to do the work, maintain balance and participate in extra-curricular activities,” Callahan Keefe says. And our girls who graduate from 12th grade go on to some of the most sophisticated institutions in the world. They go to Yale, they go to St Mary’s in London.” The college-preparatory curriculum here features forensics, Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society and performing and visual arts. There are scores of clubs, organizations and sports teams. There’s also a rigorous public speaking

program, which is fitting as the school’s name is an homage to Pere Henri Lacordaire, a 19th-century Dominican priest famous for his gift of public speaking and his membership in the Academie Francaise. SERVICE THROUGH KINDNESS Lacordaire was open in-person last year, and aims to safely do so again this year. The school was happy to be of service

to its students—as service to others and social justice is at the heart of its Dominican mission. “It’s more important than ever that we get out of our own heads through service, through kindness,” Callahan Keefe says. “It brings our community a lot of peace to devote themselves to other people. Being of service can be a relief when the world feels complicated.” A joyful bubble, indeed.

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MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY 659 BELMONT AVE., NORTH HALEDON • 973-790-6200 • MARYHELP.ORG

Discovering God’s Gifts, One Girl at a Time

ary Help of Christians Academy was open for the entire 2020-21 school year, despite COVID, and parents at this all girls’ high school truly appreciated it. “I have heard so many stories from friends and family that have not measured up to the quality education our teachers continued to give through this rough period,” Sister Marisa DeRose, Head of School shares. “Our COVID protocols allowed our students to return to in-person learning and we remained that way until June. We are looking forward to seeing the girls back on campus in September.” GENUINE INTEREST AND FAITH Prayer and education go hand-in-hand at Mary Help of Christians, which was founded in 1924 and continues to be taught in the tradition of the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco. The 16-acre campus has at times served as an orphanage, an elementary school and a boarding school. It assumed its current identity as an accredited, college-preparatory high school in 1944. The school has Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment agreements with Rutgers University, Fairleigh Dickinson University and Seton Hall University, allowing students to earn college credit without ever leaving campus. All of which creates an environment of support and sisterhood that sees each student at Mary Help of Christians get accepted into their college of choice each year. “Parents love the all-girls environment where students are focused on discovering their God-given gifts and where the faculty and staff are focused on helping each student find their career and calling,” Sister DeRose says. “There is a genuine interest in every student’s well-being

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with an emphasis on student success that integrates faith in all that we do.” AN ACADEMY PAST ACADEMICS Mary Help of Christians is more than just classwork. It’s athletics and extracurricular activities. It’s Mary’s Mini-Mart, a school store with everything from sprit wear to fruit smoothies. Most importantly, it’s the

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confident young women they become upon graduation. “The Mary Help of Christians Graduate is an innovative thinker and life-long learner who is confident and capable of contributing to society, both independently and cooperatively,” Sister DeRose says. And “the Mary Help of Christians Graduate is a catalyst for positive change, inspired by her belief in God and the Salesian spirituality with a commitment to service.”

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MONTCLAIR COOPERATIVE SCHOOL 65 CHESTNUT ST., MONTCLAIR • 973-783-4955 • MONTCLAIRCOOP.ORG

A Progressive and Personal Approach to Education

he Montclair Cooperative School was founded in 1963 and has been a leader in progressive education for 58 years. The Co-op keeps children at the center of school life, engages parents in their children’s education and guides its students towards their own personal growth and excellence. From preschool (2.5 years) through eighth grade, the school’s approach is to educate the whole child by meeting each child where they are and making sure each child feels seen and heard. DEVELOPING AND NURTURING SKILLS The Co-op’s mission is to create a nurturing and diverse environment, where children grow and flourish intellectually, emotionally and socially. Using progressive models for learning, emphasis is always placed on children’s work and the way they think about their world. The development of social-emotional skills is an integral part of the Co-op, where children learn how to negotiate, to reach consensus, resolve conflicts and advocate for themselves and others. Co-op teachers create a deep and personal connection with students, examining every child’s thinking individually and in small groups, planning curriculum that will stretch each child in academics, the arts and social skills. A STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY At the heart of the Co-op’s success is a sense of community. The school believes parents are partners in their children’s education, and are offered meaningful opportunities to participate in many aspects of Co-op life. Parents support the school by assisting in their child’s classroom, lending

time and talent through a family job, fundraising or serving on a committee. Being a Co-op parent is an experience they cherish. Alumni and alumni families remain connected to the Co-op, giving back to the community in which they thrived. Together, the school respects and nurtures its community, holding true to the belief that a child who is socially and emotionally in a good, balanced place has a strong foundation for continued study,

growth and a lifelong love for learning. Finding the right school takes time and great care. Keeping children engaged in their own learning encourages them to be creative with their education—no matter the format. Whether you’re enrolling your child into school for the first time, or interested in moving to an inspiring place for students, contact the Montclair Cooperative School to learn more about the joy of being part of the Co-op.

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OAK KNOLL SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD 44 BLACKBURN RD., SUMMIT • 908-522-8100 • OAKKNOLL.ORG

Teaching the Whole Child, With a Founder’s Purpose

ctions, not words. It’s more than the mantra of education visionary Cornelia Connelly, whose teachings form the bedrock for Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child. It’s a North Star. “Our founder’s axiom is taken very literally here,” says Jennifer Landis, Oak Knoll’s Head of School. “Our graduates leave here with a sense of purpose and understanding about the world around them that prepares them for the next steps and beyond.” A GLOBAL NETWORK FOR LIFE Oak Knoll was founded in 1924, based on Connelly’s Society of the Holy Child Jesus, which started in 1846 with a vision of teaching “the whole child” long before the approach became a staple of education. Now the society offers a worldwide web of 9 U.S. schools and 13 overseas. “When students enroll in Oak Knoll, they are joining a global network for life,” Landis says. “Our students and families form bonds that last a lifetime and span well beyond our campus in Summit.” That campus encompasses an independent school for boys and girls in pre-kindergarten through grade 6 (the Lower School). Grades 7-12 (the Upper School) are for young women. And while it’s a global family, it’s a focus on the individual that defines education here. “One of the most special aspects of the school is our focus on whole-child development,” Landis says. “When we think of that we think about how we tend to the social, emotional, cognitive, physical and spiritual development of each child.” ANYTHING BUT COOKIE CUTTER Oak Knoll offered hybrid, in-person classes last year and is looking forward to

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in-person teaching this year. Those face-to-face encounters will feature several new and improved programs, including a co-educational pre-kindergarten program that launched in 2020 and a new signature confidencebuilding initiative for middle school girls. There is also increased social/emotional programming, including the “Character Strong” curriculum in the Lower School, and a new leadership-building program in the Upper School.

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In addition, there are scores of clubs, extra-curricular groups, afterschool activities, 15 varsity sports, an international-exchange program and diversity, equity, inclusion and justice initiatives. “Families know that when they send their child to Oak Knoll, they are not getting a cookie-cutter education,” Landis says. “Their child will be encouraged to push boundaries, step outside their comfort zones and discover their passions.”

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PRINCETON ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART 1128 GREAT RD., PRINCETON • 609-921-6499 • PRINCETONACADEMY.ORG

A Place Where He Can Be … Anything He Chooses

aneta Chambers joined Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart in May as its first director of the Learning Resource Center. And while the hire may sound like a routine appointment, it typifies Princeton Academy’s approach to “developing young men to be creative, compassionate and courageous leaders of a just society.” “We seek to bring out the best in each and every boy,” Head of School Alfred (Rik) Dugan III says. “We take great pride in seeing, hearing and knowing each and every boy individually, and meeting him where he is on his journey, as a person and as a learner. We use a phrase here, ‘He Can Be.’ We believe he can be anything.” REINVENTING BOYS’ EDUCATION Princeton Academy was founded in 1998, and today has the vision to reinvent boys’ education for students in kindergarten through grade 8. “We need to pull in all parties who are a part of that child’s learning journey,” Chambers says. “It cannot just be the student. We have to partner with families, caregivers. We need to ensure teachers play an active part, not just in the classroom, but by really knowing the child, and seeing them for who they are and where they are at the moment.” She is not alone, of course. Princeton Academy also has created a Director of Social Emotional Wellness to lead along with a Director of Secondary School Placement, a Director of Community and Culture, a Director of Curriculum Innovation and a Director of Spiritual Life. “This concept of reinventing boys’ education allows us to really think about developing good men for tomorrow,” Dugan says. “We are mindful that we are educating and partnering with families to raise boys who we strive to equip with

a tool belt to solve global problems and make our world a better place, while also providing a compass to help him navigate the moral context of the world around him.” A HANDSHAKE BY ANY OTHER NAME A longstanding tradition at PASH is the Morning Handshake. So with the school open in-person last year, that became a different, but just as

meaningful, morning greeting. “Every boy was acknowledged with eye contact, a good morning, sometimes a bow or a head nod,” Dugan says. “Yes, a handshake is a handshake, but really it is a representation of seeing the other individual and enabling the other person to know, ‘I am here for you. I am extending my hand, and so are you. And you are going to carry that forward into our world.’”

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RANNEY SCHOOL 235 HOPE RD., TINTON FALLS • 732-542-4777 • RANNEYSCHOOL.ORG

Values at Its Core, More Applicable Than Ever

esilience has long been a lesson at Ranney School’s heart. Over the past 18 months, Head of School Dr. John Griffith has seen it on display more than ever in the face of a pandemic. “Our community rallied,” he says. “The faculty was terrific; they recreated themselves and the way they taught. Parents were very supportive of protocols and our students were incredibly cooperative. Adaptability and resilience, those core values, definitely bore out as advantages.” LEAD. CREATE. CONTRIBUTE. Ranney School serves 700 students from age 3 to 12th grade. Classes and activities include fine/performing arts, top-ranked robotics squads and 40 athletic teams. Facilities include state-of-the-art spaces such as two Innovation Labs. Recent improvements include updated sports fields and a modernized health center. The school’s mission is to “nurture intellectual curiosity and confidence to inspire students to lead honorably, think creatively and contribute meaningfully to society.” In those words, Dr. Griffith sees real-world touchstones for the resiliency, service and adaptability that the school touts. “We have a school-wide commitment to community service. This year, we will host two community-wide service efforts for all students as we endeavor to be connected to the broader community.” The school taught in-person last year, though activities were modified for safety. The Maymester program for Upper School students, which envisions travel programs, shifted in-house. “Students still had opportunities to do experiential education,” Griffith says. “Projects over the past couple of years have included building a pizza oven, learning

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culinary studies and applying math and engineering to applications like building a golf course. We certainly expect those and other experiences to grow in the future, including a return to travel.” CULTIVATING INDIVIDUAL TALENTS If intellectual curiosity is the start of a Ranney journey, connectedness is the end. Dr. Griffith proudly follows alumnus Scottie Lewis, a star basketball player

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drafted to the Charlotte Hornets. And he was thrilled to watch alumna Jessica Springsteen—The Boss’ daughter— help her team win a silver medal in the US equestrian team jumping final at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. “Both are examples of the school’s ability to cultivate students with individual talents and accommodate their needs and schedules,” he says. After all, resiliency takes work.

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SAINT JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL 145 PLAINFIELD AVE., METUCHEN • 732-549-7600 • STJOES.ORG

A College Prep Program Rooted in Christian Values

aint Joseph High School is operated by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, who have been active in American education since their arrival from Lyons, France in 1847. At Saint Joe’s students and parents will find an exceptional college preparatory program rooted in Christian values, a great athletic program and an extensive list of extracurricular activities. The school admits boys of any race, color, national or ethnic origin or creed and is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and by the National Association of Independent Schools. Saint Joe’s is located on 77 acres in Metuchen and Edison, NJ. CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT IS IN THE CURRICULUM The Formation Program at Saint Joe’s is designed to address non-traditional educational components that are vital to students’ development, but are not covered in the normal curriculum. A few areas of particular interest include leadership and character development and diversity. On Wednesdays throughout the school year, an hour of time is dedicated to Formation. The Program is broken down by grade level, with each grade attending a seminar that is relevant to them in their development. For example, freshman attend a seminar on preparing for a midterm/final, while seniors attend one on writing a college essay. Saint Joe’s believes that its Formation Program helps students to develop into well-rounded individuals and extends their learning beyond the typical core classes of the school day. FACULTY WITH TALENT AND EXPERIENCE The school’s faculty and staff are

comprised of highly educated and talented individuals who truly care about the success and well-being of the Saint Joseph students. More than 70% of Saint Joe’s educators have at least one master’s degree or higher and 10% have a doctorate degree including two medical doctors and two lawyers. Five of Saint Joe’s Partners in Mission have been accepted as Advanced Placement (AP) Readers to

grade the national AP exams each year. Additionally, one serves as a member of the AP Leadership as a Table Leader. On average, Saint Joseph teachers have 21 years of experience in their field of expertise, while 31% have over 30 years of teaching experience. All of Saint Joe’s teachers are trained in STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) so that they are able to provide enriching and cross-sectional lessons to their students.

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TRINITY HALL 101 CORREGIDOR RD., TINTON FALLS • 732-291-1297 • TRINITYHALLNJ.ORG

Designed for Girls, and How They Learn Best

ary Kate Blaine was hired by Trinity Hall as the independent, all-girls high school’s second head of school in

December 2020. She was impressed well before her July start date. “I found Trinity Hall’s commitment to excellence audacious and inspiring,” she says. “Rooted in deep faith, the Trinity Hall community is bold in its belief that when young women are supported by role models of outstanding character and academic expertise, they can be empowered to do and be anything. Our focus on preparing young women to lead, to respond to dynamic change equipped with the skills to meet it, and to persevere through challenges with faith and a spirit of respect for others is precisely what our world needs.” ACHIEVING POTENTIAL, TOGETHER Independently governed, and taught with an all-honors curriculum in the Roman Catholic tradition, Trinity Hall opened in 2013 in Middletown and is now on the former Fort Monmouth US Army base in Tinton Falls. Sisterhood defines Trinity Hall and its core values of leadership, respect, perseverance and faith. It’s a sense of community where the “Circle of Support” ensures students have the resources to support them. And a feeling of belonging that extends to two dozen-plus clubs and organizations as well as 16 sports teams that compete against public, parochial and independent schools in surrounding Monmouth County. “Trinity Hall prepares each student to achieve her full potential as she embraces her place in the world,” Blaine says. “Moreover, Trinity Hall is a place designed especially for girls and the way they learn best.”

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A RUMBLE FOR BRAGGING RIGHTS The Trinity Hall feeling of community isn’t found in just its classes and student groups. It’s in the way Trinity Hall operates. For example, the “Royal Rumble” divides the entire school–students and faculty–into the Blue Team and the Orange Team to compete against each other in events run by Trinity Hall’s five leadership councils. Winners laser-cut their team name on a

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trophy–and earn bragging rights for which graduates return to campus to defend. Blaine is counting the days to look her students in the eyes and celebrate this year’s competition. “Our students are our best ambassadors and I cannot wait to welcome them back to school this fall,” Blaine says. “I look forward to having the entire community together and intend to embrace the joys, talents, and laughter of our students.”

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UNION CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 1600 MARTINE AVE., SCOTCH PLAINS • 908-889-1600 • UNIONCATHOLIC.ORG

Where Balance is the Key to Success

nion Catholic offers a wide variety of academic offerings and extra-curricular activities within six learning levels tailored to meet each student’s strengths and interests. UC encourages balance as students navigate their high school journeys. “One of my favorite parts of Union Catholic is the balance that it strikes between being able to offer students all of the curriculum and activities they could ever want, while still being small enough and personal enough to give students a unique experience. Everything about my connections with my teachers, and even with the other students, feels so much more personal,” says rising junior Alexandra Bonn. “In the real world, you have to have balance, and I think UC does a really good job of fostering that,” adds rising senior Michael Palacio. “We are guided to manage our time so that one task isn’t given too much attention at the expense of others.” MEETING A GENERATION’S NEEDS Union Catholic adopted its use of laptops more than 20 years ago. Principal, Sister Percylee Hart is proud of UC’s cutting edge approach to education, with a curriculum fostered by the use of technology. This was especially evident during the pandemic, when UC transitioned seamlessly to virtual learning. But technology isn’t everything, Principal Hart says. “What we really try to do at Union Catholic is meet the needs of this generation,” Principal Hart says. “I’ve been in education for 50 years and this is the first time that I have encountered students that process and function in new ways.” The students agree. Just ask them. “Multi-tasking is something that Union Catholic heavily pushes, encouraging students to do clubs and sports, and focus

on their schoolwork and their connection with God,” Bonn says. LIVING UC’S CORE VALUES Union Catholic’s goal is to graduate academically successful young women and men who demonstrate its core values of responsibility, respect, honesty, community and compassion. Sister Percylee looks forward to having students back in person this fall, as the

school community comes alive with renewed hope and excitement for the future. “It’s a laboratory of life,” she says. “One of our biggest strengths is our environment. We need each other. It’s not all about mastery of technology and one-on-one learning, it’s also relational and becoming all God calls you to be.” Union Catholic students agree. Just ask them.

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THE WILLOW SCHOOL 1150 POTTERSVILLE RD., GLADSTONE • 908-470-9500 • WILLOWSCHOOL.ORG

Experiencing Education, With an Outdoor Campus

he Willow School has always had a garden as part of its 34acre campus. But last year, it became a communal learning center that enhanced the experiential learning that goes on here. “During a year where we couldn’t have many of our typical community gatherings, the garden became a space where parents, teachers and students came together,” says Head of School Francisco Ayala. “Led by our parentrun Garden Club, parents, students and teachers planted together, practicing key Willow virtues like respect and responsibility. What students planted was often inspired by their curriculum, like the pollinator flower bed students created and tended to in science class. Watering their plots and enjoying the early harvests became some of the most joyful moments of our spring semester. “It really inspired everyone involved, including many of our teachers who will be integrating the garden even more deeply into their curriculum this upcoming school year. During a challenging year, it was amazing to feel the Willow community spirit in the garden.” TEACHING THE JOY OF LEARNING At Willow, “the joy of learning” is the focus from preschool through grade 8. Formed in 2000, founders Pearl Johnson and Mark Biedron aimed to design a place where students learn how to develop ethical relationships and apply systems thinking to complex issues. It’s a school where students learn at their own pace, with hands-on lessons tailored to their learning styles. And it’s an environment where children are encouraged to bring their passions into student-led projects. The campus has three LEEDcertified buildings and plenty of outdoor

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classroom space, which was expanded last year. “Teachers really saw the value of having kids learn outdoors as much as possible,” Ayala says. “That is something we’ll carry forward.” HANDS-ON LESSONS THAT CONNECT The lessons are working. The Willow School saw its student body grow from 130 to 160 students over the past two years. Some of the school’s

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growth was due to remaining open during COVID thanks to a litany of safety protocols, but Ayala credits more of it to the school’s mission. “Parents value experiential, handson learning,” Ayala says. “We’re really seeing that the core components of our program—virtues, systems thinking, project-based learning and more— connect with different families. Parents see the positive impact that our approach has on their kids.”

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ABILITY SCHOOL 75 KNICKERBOCKER RD., ENGLEWOOD • 201-871-8808 • ABILITYSCHOOLNJ.COM

ducation is about so much more than grades. Just ask Ability School Headmistress Joan Marrazzo. “We actually don’t use a system of grades, we use a system of forms, which is a British model,” she says. “A student is on an individual program based on their abilities.” Ability School was founded in the late 1970s on New York City’s Upper West Side and is now in its 35th year in Englewood, where it serves children in prekindergarten through eighth grade. The premise here is simple: appealing to parents looking for an alternative to traditional teaching. “The idea is that we are teaching things to the individual student, not for memory, but for understanding,” Marrazzo says. “It’s smaller classroom sizes, so there are lots of group discussions and they’re forming opinions and judgments of material. It’s a balance of theory and practical, so they’re always applying it in some way, shape or form.” Take the school’s reading program.

Marrazzo takes particular pride in that younger Ability students begin reading at age 4, a nod to the school’s approach to teasing out individual skills, rather than blanketing all students with one pedagogy. “We don’t really look at timed-based, as much as we look at proficiency and mastery,” Marrazzo says. Ability School closed in March 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, but re-opened

in July with an enrollment bump of almost 20 percent, nearly all from families seeking in-person education. “There is a sense of community here,” Marrazzo says. “Our parents really do come together as a group to support the school and support their children. They know that there are three parts to making it a success: the school, the student, and the family working together.”

BIERMAN ABA AUTISM CENTER 550 SPRINGFIELD AVE., BERKELEY HEIGHTS • 908-768-2333 • BIERMANABA.COM

ierman ABA Autism Center’s students get one-on-one attention. And that extends to families, too. Working with families “is one of the most important things with what we do,” says Alexis Ducharme, senior director of marketing. “We want to be a partner to the family. We put the family first. To provide care, we meet with each family to identify their needs, we use a whole family approach. We create targeted goals through systematic assessments and we listen to each family’s needs and future family goals when designing a child’s program.” Bierman’s Berkeley Heights location is part of a multi-nation network of centers that have graduated more than 100 children since its founding in 2006. They also have locations in Indiana, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Arizona. Bierman provides intensive research-based ABA therapy (applied behavior analysis) to children with autism. Therapy programs are individualized and are implemented on a one-on-one

basis with a therapist overseen by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). The entire team is committed to the best possible outcomes. This past year, Bierman ABA remained open by using all applicable safety protocols. Staff remains masked at all times while working with students, typically between the ages of 2-9. Bierman ABA’s purpose is to “Fuse

Science and Learning to Accelerate Progress and Changes Lives.” They do this by providing services such as diagnostic testing, speech therapy and occupational therapy. They focus on creating everyday success that leads to long-term successes. “Even if there are roadblocks or barriers,” Ducharme says, “we get creative to still be able to provide the best and highest-quality care to our kids.”

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THE CENTER SCHOOL 2 RIVERVIEW DR., SOMERSET • 908-253-3870 • THECENTERSCHOOL.COM

or Dr. Ronald Rinaldi, Executive Director of The Center School, the past year has been a validation. Through mostly in-person education, he was proud to see that the school’s 50-year-old ethos of serving students with learning disabilities carried its students through one of the most difficult years of their lives. “Special needs students have a lot of unique issues,” Dr. Rinaldi says. “They have attention deficit issues. They have sensory issues. A lot of times they can’t have certain items touch their skin. So, we’re figuring, some of these kids won’t be able to wear a mask…these are some of the things we were thinking, ‘Oh, my God, this is just not going to work with special needs students.’ And it worked. And they were really great.” Success is what parents have seen here since The Center School was founded in 1971. Most of the roughly 80 students in grades 3-12 are on the autism spectrum.

There’s also a popular transition program for high school graduates up to age 21. Most students join around third grade, as families realize that their child has learning differences and switch from a mainstream school to a specialized one. Dr. Rinaldi never minds when a student transitions back to their home district. That’s the point. Well, that and seeing the smiles on the

faces of those learning how to learn—and the smiles of those who are proud of them. “We had in-person graduations, and the parents were thrilled that they were able to come and see their children graduate,” he says. “To see just those couple of events, and the smiles on the kids’ faces, that they could be together with their peers, and that their parents could be there—that’s what it’s about.”

THE DERON SCHOOL 1140 COMMERCE AVE., UNION • 908-206-0444 • 130 GROVE ST., MONTCLAIR • 973-509-2777 • DERONSCHOOL.ORG

fter a year of virtual learning and hybrid sessions, The Deron School of New Jersey Director Lori Alter is focused on getting multiply disabled students reunited with the teachers they need. “We’re getting back to normal,” she says. “We’ve restarted our special classes. Our music, art, physical education are in the classrooms now. We’re back on track.” Alter credits the staff at The Deron School, but that’s no surprise. Everything here starts with teachers, paraprofessionals, behaviorists and speech, occupational and physical therapists jointly following Applied Behavior Analysis programming. It’s been that way since Deron was founded in 1967 by Alter’s in-laws. Now, there are some 100 students in Union and another 120 in Montclair with a range of special needs that include autism, Down syndrome, cognitive impairment and brain injuries. “Most staff members know everybody,” Alter says. “We nurture and we take care of

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them because we want them to be the best they can despite their disability. It’s just what educators do, I believe.” Not only did Deron School staff work through the year, the campuses actually expanded. In Union, the school opened a STEAM Lab for science, technology, engineering, the arts and math. In Montclair, a technology lab dubbed Tiger Tech Inc. opens in September.

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Both offer courses like software, coding and digital citizenship. And now, Alter is ready to unveil all the new tech to students and parents. “Because we are family-run, we insist on that familiarity with all of the students and families,” she says. “I know every name of every child in the building. In special education, it is a really unique responsibility and care for what you’re doing.”

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FAR BROOK SCHOOL 52 GREAT HILLS RD., SHORT HILLS • 973-379-3442 • FARBROOK.ORG

uriosity. Creativity. Childhood. These are the hallmarks of a Far Brook education for a diverse student body of 260 children in nursery through grade 8, a journey designed to encourage questioning and careful observation of the world around them. The mission is “to create a supportive and caring community that cherishes love of learning, creativity and individuality, and that provides teachers and students with both support and freedom to take risks in order to reach their full potential.” Founded in 1948 on nine wooded acres by parents who believed in progressive education for their children, Far Brook provides experiential, inquiry-driven learning, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The child-centered, supportive culture allows children to express their ideas and honors their work. All students participate in sports, art, music, drama, and singing. Sometimes this involves stepping outside their comfort

zones, where they gain confidence and learn to lead. Service learning reinforces the importance of empathy and citizenship. Last year during COVID, Far Brook was open for in-person learning, maintaining unique and enriching experiences. Safety protocols included masks, weekly COVID testing, upgraded ventilation systems, reconfigured classrooms for physical distancing, and

expanded outdoor classrooms. “Far Brook continues to deliver our extraordinary, progressive program, modeling a resilient and adaptive mindset,” Head of School Amy Ziebarth says. “We have a great responsibility to our students as they form early impressions and gain knowledge that will serve as the foundation for their engagement as caring, global citizens.”

FRENCH AMERICAN SCHOOL OF PRINCETON 75 MAPLETON RD., PRINCETON • 609-430-3001 • ECOLEPRINCETON.ORG

t The French American School of Princeton (FASP), being bilingual isn’t just about language. It’s about speaking, writing, reading and thinking in two languages all day long, while living in a multi-lingual/cultural world. “FASP’s mission is to not only provide a bilingual education, but to do so in a nurturing and creative learning environment where students continually thrive,” says Dominique Velociter, Interim Head of School who joined FASP in July 2021. Founded more than two decades ago, FASP welcomes students ranging from preschool through grade 8. While the curriculum puts an emphasis on being fully bilingual and biliterate in French and English by grade five, students are also taught to think critically, appreciate each other’s similarities and differences and communicate efficiently while adapting to the world around them. Upon completion of grade 8, students

at FASP see the world through a different lens. With the built-in capability to navigate dual-linguistic structures and having an increased sense of open-mindedness, students are well-equipped to enter both U.S. and international high schools upon completion of the bilingual program. Additionally, FASP offers a deep sense of community. Made up of more than 30 nationalities, the school community

presents an opportunity for families and team members to experience a diverse array of cultures and languages. “Within our school community, we always join together as one,” said Velociter. “While our community was fortunate to remain primarily in-person during the 2020-21 academic year, we are planning an amazing new school year that will allow our community to be together.”

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GREEN MEADOW WALDORF SCHOOL 307 HUNGRY HOLLOW RD., CHESTNUT RIDGE, NY • 845-356-2514 • GMWS.ORG

reen Meadow Waldorf School is a different kind of private school. Early childhood programs are play-based. Third graders experience a rigorous farm curriculum as they learn how people have fed themselves and each other through history. And high schoolers go into the world for international exchange programs and internships like they’re already in college. “Green Meadow nurtures the physical, emotional and intellectual capacities of the child through our unique, developmental curriculum, which meets students right where they are in their growth,” says Vicki Larson, the school’s director of communications and marketing. “We have decades of experience engendering in our young people the academic, social, artistic and practical abilities that will enable them to become self-reliant and generous individuals capable of meeting whatever challenges they face in the future.” Founded in 1950, Green Meadow is one

of the oldest of the 300 Waldorf schools in the US (and roughly 1,000 worldwide). Standardized testing is eschewed here in favor of block-style learning, teacher looping and multidisciplinary instruction. On the school’s 11-acre campus in Rockland County, N.Y, test scores are less important than curiosity, collaboration and 21st-century skills. “The Waldorf curriculum fosters

independent, critical thinking and problem solving, develops ethics and morality, and promotes true joy in learning,” Larson says. Green Meadow adheres to CDC and NY state guidelines for health and safety and taught students in-person for most of the pandemic. Larson now looks forward to a majority of the time being all of the time for this school year. “Community is at the center of everything we do,” she says.

IMMACULATE HEART ACADEMY 500 VAN EMBURGH AVE., WASHINGTON TWP. • 201-445-6800 • IHANJ.COM

ara Hopfenspirger, the director of communications for Immaculate Heart Academy, can’t pick the number she’s most proud of. Maybe it’s that there are 10,722 women that call themselves IHA alumnae. Maybe it’s the $51 million in scholarship awards earned by this year’s graduates or the 204,492 service hours students have logged over the past five years, a practical application of the girls-only school’s Catholic values. “It is truly an honor and privilege to be a member of the Immaculate Heart Academy community–an institution that cultivates, motivates, supports, and empowers thousands of young women in a safe, nurturing, Catholic value-driven, academically-challenging environment,” Hopfenspirger says. Immaculate Heart, located in Bergen County, was founded in 1960 as the first regional girls high school in the Archdiocese of Newark. While the school was staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace and the

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Apostles of the Sacred Heart in the past, it now mostly employs lay faculty. IHA offers an accelerated and rigorous science, technology, engineering and math program it calls STEM@theheart. It also offers 17 AP courses, 50-plus clubs and annual service requirements. That adds up to a communal feel for IHA’s young women–and their families. “When prospective families visit our

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school, we hear time and time again about the welcoming atmosphere they experience,” Hopfenspirger says. “Students who are or have been members of the IHA community appreciate how inclusive and loving the IHA family is. Our students meet classmates and peers from all different backgrounds, and they become a part of a life-long sisterhood.” Maybe that’s the thing Immaculate Heart should be most proud of.

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KOHLER ACADEMY 1137 GLOBE AVE., MOUNTAINSIDE • 908-518-0021 • KOHLERACADEMYNJ.ORG

alk through the doors of Kohler Academy and you’ll discover a close-knit learning community working together to create an environment where the focus and priority is helping each student reach their full potential. Kohler Academy has over 50 years of experience providing unique academic and therapeutic programming that supports students’ unique and diverse needs through collaboration and advocacy. Led by Principal Sunny Beal, Kohler Academy continues its history of excellence in education today. Move through the hallways of Kohler Academy and you’ll see how the school brings education to life for its students with its large classrooms, therapy spaces, life skills areas, accessible playground and sensory gym. “Due to the nature of our students’ abilities and medical needs, regression can be detrimental,” Beal says. “We’re proud to be safely operating in-person since September 2020. The hands-on learning and therapies our students are receiving is essential in

keeping them moving forward.” Enter a classroom at Kohler Academy and you’ll find students who are engaged and challenged, while being an important part of a nurturing school community. Kohler Academy believes that children learn from each other, as well as from adults, which is why collaboration and small class sizes permit the teachers and therapists to work together to address

student needs in the moment. As part of the Arc of Union County, students and families have access to additional programs and services that provide supplemental resources for Kohler Academy families that will complement their journeys. “It’s wonderful to know our families are supported through all stages of their lives,” says Beal. “Those are important pieces.”

LANDMARK COLLEGE 19 RIVER RD. S., PUTNEY, VT • 802-387-6718 • LANDMARK.EDU

he founding of Landmark College revolutionized education for students with learning differences (LD) such as dyslexia, ADHD, autism or executive function challenges. More than 35 years later, Landmark’s uniquely designed living-learning model provides this population of college students with the most comprehensive support system, in and out of the classroom. The post-pandemic future is bringing another revolution to Landmark College with the launch of a new brand for its online programs, LC Online, and new online offerings that cater to not only high school and college students with LD, but the educators who work with them. “We’ve already had success with online dual enrollment courses for high school students and an online post-baccalaureate certificate for educators,” says Mark DiPietro, vice president for marketing & communication. “The pandemic outbreak really pushed us to make more of our

undergraduate programming available online.” College START is the newest offering. This first year of college experience includes a “virtual residence hall” to help students get a feel for living on campus as they take courses that can earn as many as 24 credits toward a degree. DiPietro says a fully online Associate of Arts in General Studies is now under development as well.

The College also continues to roll out new majors for its on-campus, undergraduate program in Putney, Vermont. Bachelor’s degrees in Life Science, Studio Art, Psychology and Communications have all been introduced during the past five years. “Whatever a student’s academic goals might be, we offer a path to help them be successful,” DiPietro says.

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MOUNT ST. DOMINIC ACADEMY 3 RYERSON AVE. , CALDWELL • 973-226-0660 • MSDACADEMY.ORG

or the past year, access to schools was often discussed in terms of in-person education. At Mount St. Dominic Academy, a Catholic high school for girls, access to the distinguished faculty is a given. “At the Mount, parents appreciate being able to easily access their daughters’ teachers as well as our student to faculty ratio that results in smaller class sizes and more personalized instruction,” says Dean of Academics Laura Hollenbaugh. “Parents and students embrace the values we uphold and the way we incorporate them into the educational experience.” The Mount and its mission were founded in 1892 by the Sisters of Saint Dominic. After leaving an early post in Jersey City for a more tranquil setting, the Sisters hand-laid the foundation for the motherhouse and school. Now, 129 years later, the school guides students to self-discovery by “knowing how girls learn best.” That includes a signature

entrepreneurship program known as the L.E.O. Program, a Capstone in Directed Research (call it a senior thesis), 14 Advanced Placement courses and a bevy of co- and extra-curricular activities. The school taught in-person last year and expects to do the same this year. With a college acceptance rate of 100% and freshmen who return to say their first year at the next level of education was “so easy,”

it seems like the Mount has “knowing how girls learn best” down pat. “Our education helps our students get to where they want to go—from some of the best colleges all the way to the courtroom, to the operating room, to the director’s chair, to the White House and everywhere in between,” Hollenbaugh says. “After the Mount, our alumnae are prepared to embark on the journey to adulthood.”

MOUNT SAINT MARY ACADEMY 1645 US-22 W., WATCHUNG • 908-757-0108 • MOUNTSAINTMARY.ORG

ount Saint Mary Academy is all about sisterhood. As a Catholic private school that isn’t part of a diocese, its focus is on educating the young women who attend this college preparatory high school. “Because we are all girls, there are so few distractions,” says Director of Admissions Donna Venezia Toryak. “There isn’t a social undercurrent that exists when there is a male-female setting. They become much closer friends. There isn’t that cattiness, trying to impress the boys. They can focus on their work and the development of self. The sisterhood is impressive.” Mount Saint Mary was founded in 1908 by the Sisters of Mercy, who still own the 84-acre hilltop campus. The setting is more akin to a Catholic college campus, with young women shuttling between buildings for classes and 40-some extra-curricular clubs, sports and academic activities. “We empower young women to be their best selves in a spiritual atmosphere,”

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Toryak says. “An atmosphere that is very nurturing and supportive, and very conducive to the girls developing a sisterhood so that they are well-equipped in every way to face the challenges of their future upon graduation.” The school used a hybrid schedule last year, one aided by the fact that it has long used technology for snow days. But there are no plans for virtual learning this year.

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“We are hoping for the new year to have a whole renewed sense of community because of that,” Toryak says. “In addition to all the opportunities for our young women to be enriched spiritually and academically, culturally, we are very attuned to wellness of mind, body and spirit. One thing about our graduates, we want them to be well-rounded.” That begins and ends with sisterhood.

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MUSTARD SEED SCHOOL 422 WILLOW AVE., HOBOKEN • 201-653-5548 • MUSTARDSEEDSCHOOL.ORG

stablished in 1979, Mustard Seed School is a progressive, artsinfused Christian school serving pre-K through 8th grade students. The school inspires minds, cultivates hearts and removes barriers. It teaches each child to be an expert learner and act as a protagonist in their education. When parents walk into the school for the first time, they comment on the peaceful, joyful environment, says Abby Hall Choi, the Head of School. “They see students who are deeply engaged in learning with teachers who know and care for them. They immediately feel a strong sense of community. It’s a place where students can celebrate their successes and learn from their failures.” The program at Mustard Seed School addresses the whole child: mind, body and spirit. “We have an integrated curriculum that combines academics with arts, faith and service,” says Hall Choi. “We prepare students to be change makers–to make a

difference in the world.” In the fall, the school plans to offer in-person learning five days a week for all students. During the pandemic, the school was able to successfully remain open for in-person learning in a hybrid model. Mustard Seed is unique in that it focuses on hands-on learning and infusing the curriculum with music and

art, opportunities for service and daily worship. The school has a sliding scale tuition model that enables them to serve students from across the socioeconomic spectrum. “At Mustard Seed School, students are known and encouraged,” says Hall Choi. “They create meaning and seek purpose, all within a loving and warm academic community committed to excellence.”

PARAMUS CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 425 PARAMUS RD., PARAMUS • 201-445-4466 • PARAMUSCATHOLIC.COM

aramus Catholic is where faith, family and faculty meet. This co-educational collegepreparatory school describes its Christcentered mission statement as one that pushes spiritual growth, academic excellence and social responsibility. It’s an approach the school believes has led to personal development for all its students since its founding in 1965. “What’s nice about Catholic education is everyone is taking an oath of being part of this community,” Marketing Director Jean Cousins says. “You choose to come to Paramus Catholic. You’re not going to it because of your zip code. You’re saying, ‘I want my son or daughter here.’ That’s the beauty of it.” It’s easy to see why parents make the choice. Twenty-one Advanced Placement courses. Thirty-three honors courses. And a student body where 99 percent goes on to a four-year college. Last school year, Paramus Catholic

worked on a hybrid schedule. With students set to return in person this fall, it is restarting quarterly weekend retreats, service projects, and the popular Campus Ministry and Paladin News Network, which does video broadcasts of school news daily. Two programs—sports medicine and computer-aided design (CAD)—began last year but will be taught in-person for the first time. And the principal, Dr. Stephanie

Macaluso, is holding an orientation just for sophomores who’ve never been in buildings on the school’s 27-acre campus. Because you can never help students enough. “I started out as a parent at PC first,” Cousins says. “Then I was a teacher. Then I went into admissions, and now I’m in marketing. Sometimes, you can see too much and maybe not feel so enchanted, but I have to tell you the children really come first here.”

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SADDLE RIVER DAY SCHOOL 147 CHESTNUT RIDGE RD., SADDLE RIVER • 201-327-4050 • SADDLERIVERDAY.ORG

sk Saddle River Day School Director of Admissions Geoffrey Bowman how he thinks of his students and it’s easy. Innovators. Thinkers. Leaders. The school “empowers students with the tools, space and encouragement to find their passions and thrive,” Bowman says. “The result? Graduates who own their future.” SRDS, as it’s known, was founded in 1957. It teaches preschool through high school on a 280-acre campus with a Lower School (preschool to grade 4), a Middle School (5-8) and an Upper School (9-12). Bowman says the school differentiates itself by balancing the familiarity of a small school with the programmatic slate of a big one. “Families love SRDS because of our rigorous academic program and because of our warm and caring community,” he adds. “We live our core values of Everyone Counts, Love of Learning and Intellectual Risk-Taking.” Not only was the school in-person last year—with plans for a safe return this

fall—but SRDS even launched new initiatives including Gateway Diplomas, an honors diploma program for seniors; Capstone Research Project, a year-long effort for Middle School students; and a monthly entrepreneurship project for Lower School kids. Education here focuses on “cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset,” Bowman says, with the school’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship offering Upper School

students 2-4 year programs in Business and Entrepreneurship, Graphic Arts, Videography, Engineering, Psychology and Computer Science. That’s in addition to SRDS’ more than 30 no-cut sports teams, clubs and musical groups—as well as other extracurricular activities. “Learning doesn’t end at 3 p.m.,” Bowman says. Not for innovative thinkers and leaders it doesn’t.

THE WARDLAW + HARTRIDGE SCHOOL 1295 INMAN AVE., EDISON • 908-754-1882 • WHSCHOOL.ORG

afety first” was a mantra at schools that were open in person last year. At The Wardlaw + Hartridge School, it’s now a way life. The school has a reopening task force, as well as a pandemic coordinator, which is a dedicated staffer tasked with ensuring the school follows best practices. It has installed high-tech Owl 360 camera systems allowing virtual students better access by keeping cameras on both the teacher, the classroom and a Smart Board, giving virtual learners a more realistic classroom experience. It also pivoted to using its $6 million performing arts center, opened just four years ago, and outdoor classroom spaces as additional instruction spaces. “It was a full community effort,” said Director of Communications Rudy Brandl. “From the administration down to the parents and students themselves.” Everything is a communal accomplishment at Wardlaw + Hartridge. The school formed in 1976 as a merger of The

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Wardlaw School and The Hartridge School, each of whose roots trace to the late 1800s. Now, Wardlaw + Hartridge has evolved into a co-educational, college preparatory day school. It serves students in prekindergarten through high school, broken into three divisions: the Lower School, the Middle School and the Upper School. Wardlaw + Hartridge’s statistics speak for themselves. College matriculation? 100%.

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Athletic teams? 35. Teacher-student ratio? 7:1. Signature pedagogical programs? 11. But it’s not the biggest numbers that define Wardlaw + Hartridge. It’s the smallest ones, leading with class size. “We take immense pride that no student gets lost here,” says Director of Admission Gerard Gonnella. “Our school’s smaller size makes it more like a family, where every student is engaged.”

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WINSTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL 901 RTE. 10 E., WHIPPANY • 973-500-6480 • WINSTONPREP.EDU

OVID couldn’t change the mission at Winston Preparatory School NJ. Not when it’s the education and remediation of students with learning differences. “It’s very important that we stick to our mission,” Head of School Greg Koehlert says. “Our mission is to have a deep, clinical, diagnostic understanding of our students’ learning challenges. And to develop individualized programs for them that, based on our understanding of their needs, meet them where they are as we understand them and develop their skills. That’s unchanging with our kids and with our programs.” Last year, Winston Prep lost just three days of live instruction. It’s the kind of focus the school has had since opening in 2014 to offer individualized education for students in grades 3-12 with differences such as dyslexia, nonverbal learning disabilities, expressive and receptive language disorders, and ADHD. Winston

uses the Neuropsychological Paradigm to understand learning disorders, and individualizes by using the Continuous Feedback Process to design curriculum, adding 45-minutes of one-to-one Focus Program instruction each day. The program started in New York City in 1983 and now has six campuses and the Winston Online program. Koehlert says the school took all necessary safety steps, including some

teachers working remotely as students needed to see their full faces for instruction. It also invested in high-quality, cross-talk microphones and cameras. This year, Koehlert expects even more success. “Our plans are to do what we always do, which is help kids develop their independence through the development of their skills,” he says. “The path forward is to forge ahead, stick to the mission.”

Looking for more schools and programs? Head over to njfamily.com/education for all things education in one place.

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SCHOOL SNAPSHOTS Want to learn more about the schools in our Big Book of Education?

Town/School/Address

Phone/Hours/Website

Grades

Tuition

No. of Students

BASKING RIDGE Somerset Hills YMCA Early Education Center 140 Mt. Airy Rd.

908-766-7898 / 7:30–6 gscymca.org/shy-eec

Pre-K

Please call

908-768-2333 / 8–5 biermanaba.com

2–9 yrs./Special needs

Please call

908-443-9021 / 7:30–6 ssbjcc.org

Pre-K

Please call

125

BERKELEY HEIGHTS Bierman ABA Autism Center 550 Springfield Ave. BRIDGEWATER Blaustein Early Childhood Center at Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC 775 Talamini Rd.

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The schools featured on the following pages are preschools, primary and secondary schools, boarding schools and colleges and trusted advertisers in New Jersey Family’s Big Book of Education. Some schools serve students with special needs exclusively; others with accommodations. If a special needs school’s tuition is paid by the sending district, you’ll see PSD in the tuition column. Tuition published is the annual cost for a 10-month school year, but monthly and/or weekly rates may be provided instead. Hours indicate the regular school day plus any before- and after-school hours if applicable.

SCHOOL SNAPSHOTS Town/School/Address

Phone/Hours/Website

Grades

Tuition

No. of Students

CALDWELL Mount St. Dominic Academy 3 Ryerson Ave.

973-226-0660 / 8–6:30 msdacademy.org

9th–12th/Girls

20,000

220

CHATHAM Chatham Day School 700 Shunpike Rd.

973-410-0400 / 7:15–6 chathamdayschool.org

Pre-K–8th

5,90039,300

170

CHESTNUT RIDGE, NY Green Meadow Waldorf School 307 Hungry Hollow Rd.

845-356-2514 / 8:30–3 gmws.org

Pre-K–12th

10,800– 28,400

240

CLOSTER Everbrook Academy of Closter 597 Piermont Rd.

866-222-0269 / 6:30–6:30 everbrookacademy.com

Pre-K

Please call

DEMAREST Academy of the Holy Angels 315 Hillside Ave.

201-768-7822 / 7:50–2:05 holyangels.org

6th–12th/Girls

MS: 9,000 HS: 20,320

600

EAST RUTHERFORD Montessori School of East Rutherford 144 Boiling Springs Ave.

201-896-0280 / 7:30–6:30 montessori-er.com

Pre-K–K

Please call

EDISON The Wardlaw + Hartridge School 1295 Inman Ave.

908-754-1882 / 7–6 whschool.org

Pre-K–12th

15,900– 45,200

470

ENGLEWOOD Ability School 75 Knickerbocker Rd.

201-871-8808 / 8:30–5:30 abilityschoolnj.org

Pre-K–8th

14,000

FAIRFIELD Glenview Academy 24 Dwight Pl.

973-808-1998 / 8:40–2:55 gramonfamily.org

5–15 yrs./ Special needs

PSD

Gramon School 24 Dwight Pl.

973-808-9555 / 8:40–2:55 gramonfamily.org

16–21 yrs./ Special needs

PSD

New Beginnings 28 Dwight Pl.

973-882-8822 / 8:40–2:55 gramonfamily.org

3–21 yrs./ Special needs

PSD

165

GLADSTONE Gill St. Bernard’s School 25 St. Bernard’s Rd.

908-234-1611 / 8–4 gsbschool.org

Pre-K–12th

13,750– 43,900

640

The Willow School 1150 Pottersville Rd.

908-470-9500 / 7:30–5 willowschool.org

Pre-K–8th

11,680– 37,250

150

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Town/School/Address

Phone/Hours/Website

Grades

Tuition

No. of Students

HILLSBOROUGH Hillsborough YMCA Early Education Center 19 East Mountain Rd.

908-369-0490 / 6:30–6:30 gscymca.org/hy-eec

Pre-K

Please call

HOBOKEN Mustard Seed School 422 Willow Ave.

201-653-5548 / 8:10–6 mustardseedschool.org

Pre-K–8th

11,400– 25,250

210

JERSEY CITY Franklin School 100 Town Square Pl.

201-234-4781 / 7:30–6 franklinjc.org

9th–12th

29,500

Please call

LAWRENCEVILLE Saint Ann School 34 Rossa Ave.

609-882-8077 / 7:30–5:30 saintannschool.org

Pre-K–8th

4,200–7,400

220

LINCROFT Christian Brothers Academy 850 Newman Springs Rd.

732-747-1959 / 7:30–3:30 cbalincroftnj.org

9th–12th/Boys

17,650

880

LIVINGSTON Newark Academy 91 South Orange Ave.

973-992-7000 / 8–3 newarka.edu

6th–12th

43,240

656

973-377-4945 / 7–6 madisonareaymca.org

Pre-K–K

Please call

150+

MENDHAM Westmont Montessori 577 Rte. 24

908-879-6355 / 8–5 westmontmontessori.org

Pre-K–K

500–1,700

120

METUCHEN Saint Joseph High School 145 Plainfield Rd.

732-549-7600 / 8–3 stjoes.org

9th–12th/Boys

15,850

500

MONTCLAIR Deron School 130 Grove St.

973-509-2777 / 8:30–2:30 deronschool.org

9th–12th/ Special needs

PSD

120

Montclair Cooperative School 65 Chestnut St.

973-783-4955 / 9–3:15 montclaircoop.org

Pre-K–8th

10,000– 25,000

140

Montclair Kimberley Academy 201 Valley Rd.

973-746-9800 / 8–2:50 mka.org

Pre-K–12th

24,290– 44,500

1,050

MADISON F.M. Kirby Children’s Center of the Madison Area YMCA 54 East St.

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SCHOOL SNAPSHOTS

SCHOOL SNAPSHOTS Town/School/Address

Phone/Hours/Website

Grades

Tuition

No. of Students

973-334-1234 / 7:45–3:15 craigschool.org

2nd–12th/ Special needs

Please call

137 (combined for both campuses)

MORRISTOWN Delbarton School 230 Mendham Rd.

973-538-3231 / 8–6 delbarton.org

7th-12th/Boys

42,150

650

Morristown-Beard School 70 Whippany Rd.

973-539-3032 / 7:30–6 mbs.net

6th–12th

45,115– 46,865

600

Villa Walsh Academy 455 Western Ave.

973-538-3680 / 7:45–3 villawalsh.org

7th–12th/Girls

21,700

200

973-334-1234 / 7:45–3:15 craigschool.org

2nd–12th/ Special needs

Please call

137 (combined for both campuses)

908-518-0021 / 9–6 kohleracademynj.org

Pre-K–12th/ Special needs

PSD

848-932-1500 / 9–9 masongross.rutgers.edu/degreesprograms/community-arts

Pre-K–12th

Please call

264

908-722-1881 / 7–6:30 ccdom.org

Pre–K

Please call

NORTH HALEDON Mary Help of Christians Academy 659 Belmont Ave.

973-790-6200 / 7:40–2:10 maryhelp.org

8th-12th/Girls

13,000

160

PARAMUS Paramus Catholic High School 425 Paramus Rd.

201-445-4466 / 7–6 paramuscatholic.com

9th–12th

11,400

1,050

PRINCETON French American School of Princeton 75 Mapleton Rd.

609-430-3001 / 7:50–6 ecoleprinceton.org

Pre-K–8th

11,652– 21,348

150

609-921-6499 / 7–6 princetonacademy.org

K–8th/Boys

18,700– 33,350

190

MONTVILLE Craig School 10 Tower Hill Rd., Mountain Lakes (2nd–8th) 24 Changebridge Rd.., Montville (9th–12th)

MOUNTAIN LAKES Craig School 10 Tower Hill Rd., Mountain Lakes (2nd–8th) 24 Changebridge Rd., Montville (9th–12th) MOUNTAINSIDE Kohler Academy 1137 Globe Ave. NEW BRUNSWICK Rutgers Community Arts 85 George St.

YES Early Learning Center Catholic Charities 115 Paul Robeson Blvd.

Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart 1128 Great Rd.

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SCHOOL SNAPSHOTS Town/School/Address

Phone/Hours/Website

Grades

Tuition

No. of Students

SADDLE RIVER Saddle River Day School 147 Chestnut Ridge Rd.

201-327-4050 / 8–3 saddleriverday.org

Pre-K–12th

19,000– 43,800

368

SCOTCH PLAINS Union Catholic High School 1600 Martine Ave.

908-889-1600 / 7:30–2:10 unioncatholic.org

9th–12th

17,340

778

SHORT HILLS Far Brook School 52 Great Hills Rd.

973-379-3442 / 8:10–3:30 farbrook.org

Pre-K–8th

18,100– 43,700

261

SOMERSET The Center School 2 Riverview Dr.

908-253-3870 / 8:35–2:35 thecenterschool.com

K–12th/Special needs

PSD

SOMERVILLE Immaculate Conception School 41 Mountain Ave.

908-725-6516 / 7:50–6 icsschool.org

Pre-K–8th

6,870

371

908-722-4567 / 7–6:30 gscymca.org/sy-eec

Pre-K

Please call

SUMMIT Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child 44 Blackburn Rd.

908-522-8100 / 7:30–5:30 oakknoll.org

Pre-K–6th/Coed; 7th–12th/Girls

18,000– 44,900

530

TEANECK The Community School 11 West Forrest Ave.

201-837-8070 / 8:20 - 2:50 communityschoolk12nj.org

K–8th/Special needs

47,814

105

Community High School 1135 Teaneck Rd.

201-862-1796 / 8:20 - 2:50 communityhighschool.org

9th–12th/ Special needs

55,871

168

TINTON FALLS Ranney School 235 Hope Rd.

732-542-4777 / 7:30–6 ranneyschool.org

Pre-K3–12th

11,000– 36,000

700

Trinity Hall 101 Corregidor Rd.

732-291-1297 / 7:30–3:15 trinityhallnj.org

9th–12th/Girls

23,150

315

UNION Deron School 1140 Commerce Ave.

908-206-0444 / 8:30–2:30 deronschool.org

Pre-K–12th/ Special needs

PSD

UPPER MONTCLAIR Lacordaire Academy 155 Lorraine Ave.

973-744-1156 / 7:15–6 lacordaireacademy.com

Pre-K–8th/Coed 9th–12th/Girls

10,000– 15,250

288

Somerville YMCA Early Education Center 2 Green St.

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SCHOOL SNAPSHOTS Town/School/Address

Phone/Hours/Website

Grades

Tuition

No. of Students

WASHINGTON TWP. Immaculate Heart Academy 500 Van Emburgh Ave.

201-445-6800 / 7–3 ihanj.com

9th–12th/Girls

18,250

700

WATCHUNG Mount Saint Mary Academy 1645 Rte. 22

908-757-0108 / 7:30–2:30 mountsaintmary.org

9th–12th/Girls

28,400

266

WAYNE Everbrook Academy of Wayne 918 Hamburg Tpke.

866-222-0269 / 6:30–6:30 everbrookacademy.com

Pre-K

Please call

908-232-4181 / 8:30–2:30 ucesc.org/schools/westlake_ school

2nd–12th/ Special needs

PSD

973-500-6480 / 8–4 winstonprep.edu

4th–12th/ Special needs

Please call

215-579-6550 / Boarding georgeschool.org

9th–12th

Day: 43,900 Boarding: 66,250

540

802-387-6718 / Residential/ Virtual landmark.edu

HS summer programs Undergraduate degree programs Special needs

61,490

450

WESTFIELD Westlake School 1571 Lamberts Mill Rd.

WHIPPANY Winston Preparatory School 901 Rte. 10 E. BOARDING George School 1690 Newtown Langhorne Rd. Newtown, PA COLLEGE Landmark College 19 River Rd. S. Putney, VT

Creative Learning and Quality Care using the Montessori Method, in a Montessori Environment • Toddlers, Preschool, Pre-K, Kindergarten (Ages 1–6 years) • School open 7:30 am to 6:30 pm. Open year round including a fun Summer program in July and August. Curriculum focused on building a good foundation for Reading and Math. Serving children for over 35 years

(201) 896-0280

www.montessori-er.com 144 Boiling Springs Avenue, East Rutherford

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Supporting

GIFTED Learners How parents can advocate for academically gifted kids in a meaningful way.

BY RONNIE KOENIG

he term gifted is often thrown around when it comes to high-achieving kids but what does it really mean? Having a gifted child means your learner shows above-average ability that can result in intellectual and creative achievements at a young age. Gifted children are capable of high levels of performance, but many are also in need of special attention, especially when it comes to their social and emotional development. Some gifted kids may perform above average in one area but lack skills in another.

IDENTIFYING GIFTEDNESS “It is actually up to the child’s school district to identify each student for gifted services,” says Lynne Henwood, president of the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children. “Each district has their own identification process based on the needs of their student population. This process should consist of different types of assessments (portfolios, observations, creativity tests, etc.) and not just testing.” It’s important that parents understand that a label of “gifted” should not be the end goal, Henwood says. “The goal should be matching learning needs with services,” she says. “If a child is exhibiting gifted behaviors as a preschooler, the best course of action for a parent is to harness interests and curiosities by exposing them to new experiences, providing an environment that invites inquiry, reading to their child and allowing them to experiment and explore.” “The ideal timing for a child to be evaluated clinically for giftedness is during early childhood, beginning at four years of age, if possible,” says D’Arcy Natale, managing director of The Gifted Child Society in Ramsey. Natale says it’s important to note that although early identification is ideal, a child may be evaluated for giftedness at any time between the ages of 4 and 16. “This is particularly helpful for parents or educators who may not be aware of or recognize traits

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of giftedness in children until later developmental stages.” Clinical cognitive assessments administered by psychologists are the ideal means of identifying giftedness, says Natale. “These assessments are conducted one-one-one with licensed or certified psychologists and can take up to 1.5 hours for a screening or 2-3 hours for an in-depth assessment.” Natale notes that test scores and grades alone do not accurately define a gifted child, as their individual challenges and gifted traits can create obstacles to their success in the classroom. Finding an IQ score is not always the necessary course of action, since it can be an expensive pursuit and doesn’t always tell the whole story of the child, says Henwood. “An IQ score that is not in the gifted range does not mean that a child doesn’t have gifted potential or abilities, and a school does not need to accept outside testing in their identification process.”

GIFTED THROUGH THE SCHOOL YEARS Gifted programming differs from school to school, as well

as among different age groups. “There are many ways to serve gifted learners, but they should all be targeted to the areas for which the gifted learner has been identified,” says Henwood, adding that there is a common misconception that gifted children are gifted in everything. “A very important component to any gifted program is an understanding that gifted children have unique social and emotional needs,” she says. “Many gifted children are prone to perfectionism, anxiety and overexcitabilities. Some students are gifted in one area and may even have a disability in another area,” she says. “Another misconception is that gifted children are those that have neat and organized desks, raise their hand and never interrupt, always produce beautiful work, which is handed in on time and are always polite. Some of our most gifted learners are the opposite of these things.” Almost all gifted learners are asynchronous, meaning that they have uneven development. “A young child may have the

“AN IQ SCORE THAT IS NOT IN THE GIFTED RANGE DOES NOT MEAN THAT A CHILD DOESN’T HAVE GIFTED POTENTIAL OR ABILITIES, AND A SCHOOL DOES NOT NEED TO ACCEPT OUTSIDE TESTING IN THEIR IDENTIFICATION PROCESS.” cognitive ability to understand complicated world events but may not have the emotional maturity to process the events,” Henwood says. “Sometimes a gifted child has difficulty relating to peers, which can lead to loneliness and isolation. Social and emotional learning should be woven into any gifted program, and professionals who understand gifted children should be available for support as well.” In elementary school, programming can include clustering groups of students with gifted learning needs in the regular

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classroom, pullout classes, push-in enrichment, advanced opportunities to enter contests or take leadership roles in school and time and space to develop interest-based projects. “Another misconception is that gifted children will be fine on their own,” says Henwood. “These learners need adult support in order to grow as much as any other child. Their needs shouldn’t be ignored just because they can pick up concepts quickly. It’s up to educators to ensure that all of their learners are exposed to new information and are learning new skills, not just receiving more or extra work, or being asked to tutor other students. Everyone needs productive struggle in order to grow, and if these students do not develop tools to persevere through this struggle, they may be ill-equipped to manage the rigor of college.” High school programs can utilize their IB and AP programs to help meet gifted learning needs, but they also should provide talent development opportunities for them as well, says Henwood. High school students should have opportunities to intern with working professionals and to work on authentic, realworld problems. Service projects and involvement in the community are great ways for gifted students to develop talents and skills. Students may take classes at a local college to support their advanced needs. Middle school programs can involve advanced/accelerated math classes, differentiation within classrooms, enrichment opportunities, mentoring, real-world application of skills in authentic projects, contests and competitions (Destination Imagination, Continental Math League, etc.) and specialized

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clubs in which students can be in the role of the practicing professional (school newspaper editor, photographer, etc.)

RESOURCES FOR GIFTED KIDS “The New Jersey Association for Gifted Children publishes a monthly NewsNet newsletter that provides resources and nearby events for curious children,” says Henwood. “Some universities run gifted programs in the summer, and some offer classes throughout the school year, such as the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY). Mensa for Kids has resources and opportunities as well. The National Association for Gifted Children has resources and tips for parents on their website.” Parents can also look for opportunities for older children to intern with organizations of interest, such as helping on a political campaign or volunteering at the hospital. “Young writers can submit their works to publications like The New York Times and Stone Soup,” says Henwood. “NASA has contests and interesting activities for kids who love space.” “The Gifted Child Society (CTY) is a long-standing resource dedicated to supporting and enriching children with giftedness, in preschool through high school,” says Natale. “TGCS provides tailored programs and experiences for advanced learning, plus socializing and collaboration, for likeminded, gifted children. We recommend resources like ours, where the one-on-one interaction can be much more tailored and truly differentiated for the children who are gifted, as a supplement, not a replacement, to ‘normal’ schooling.”

ENRICHING EXPERIENCES These opportunities can inspire any kind of student. By JENNIFER KANTOR Additional reporting by Nia Sylva

s your child aiming to rock accelerated math? Itching to code video games or become a budding journalist? No matter their interest, there’s an after-school enrichment option sure to give them a boost. ENGLISH & MATH

STAFF ILLUSTRATION

AbaKidz Closter, Fort Lee abakidz.com AbaKidz’ multisensory approach melds visual input, auditory stimulation and the tactile manipulation of abacus beads to boost memory and enhance numerical fluency. Kids attend virtual one-on-one or group sessions once or twice per week and get daily homework.

Chatham Learning Center Chatham chathamlearningcenter.com After-school enrichment offerings include tutoring in math, reading, foreign language, writing and AP courses along with homework help and summer enrichment. There’s also SAT and ACT test prep, psychoeducational evaluations for students who are struggling academically and Orton Gillingham tutoring (that is, specialized literacy training for those with dyslexia and other reading difficulties).

writing and reading for 1st-6th graders, more advanced reading, grammar, high school prep for middle schoolers and college prep, SAT and ACT training and high school curriculum support for high schoolers. Ask about the New Media Program for your aspiring journalist. Currently classes are offered inperson on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 4:30-7:30 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am- 1 pm. Remote classes are also offered, as well as virtual language arts and math classes.

City Kidz World

Eye Level Learning

Cranbury, Kendall Park citykidzworld.com Classes teach reading, grammar, vocabulary and writing skills to kids ages 5-18. More specifically, vocabulary, grammar & punctuation,

Multiple locations myeyelevel.com The goal is to help foster independence, initiative and achievement through weekly math and English classes, daily homework

and a mix of “offline” and online learning. Students can either learn in-person at an Eye Level Learning Center or through Eye Level On Air, which is virtual learning with enhanced online curriculums.

Gain Ville Rutherford, Ridgewood gaincontact.com Kids from pre-K through high school can learn Spanish, Italian, French and Arabic at this center which uses a culturally authentic approach to learning a new language. In-person and virtual lessons that use the full immersion method are offered.

Huntington Learning Center Multiple locations huntingtonhelps.com Kids from kindergarten through

* All information is subject to change. Please call centers for up-to-the minute information on offerings and COVID safety measures.

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high school get one-on-one tutoring in math, reading, phonics, writing, science, study skills and test prep. HLC typically recommends two or more sessions per week; hours are flexible and there are remote options available, as well as inperson tutoring at various locations.

JEI Learning Center Multiple locations us.jei.com JEI’s individualized, workbookbased model (one session per week plus daily homework) includes classes in problem-solving, math, English, reading, writing and critical and creative thinking. A low studentto-teacher ratio ensures that all students will receive plenty of personal attention. Remote learning options are also available.

KUMON Multiple locations kumon.com Kumon offers worksheet-based educational services for kids as young as three through high school. Strengthen their math and English skills with two weekly classes featuring timed/evaluated worksheets, plus 20-30 minutes of daily homework. Virtual classes are available, but students can also receive in-person instruction at many locations.

Mathnasium Multiple locations mathnasium.com Boost your K-12th grader’s knack for numbers with a methodical yet personalized curriculum designed to help strugglers improve and superstars soar through a combination of mental, verbal, visual, tactile and written exercises. Tutoring sessions are currently being offered by appointment via video conference and in-person.

Project Write Now Red Bank projectwritenow.org

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Lit-loving kids, tweens and teens can workshop ideas, hone their craft and get constructive feedback amidst a supportive group of young scribes. Online classes and tutoring sessions are available for younger children, while teens can take virtual classes or participate in a virtual internship program. Project Write Now also offers community outreach programs aimed at helping underserved and vulnerable groups develop crucial writing and communication skills.

Sylvan Learning Center Multiple locations sylvanlearning.com Sylvan offers custom tutoring in math, reading, writing and more, plus homework help and coaching to sharpen students’ study skills. Older kids can also get AP class support, help with college essays, and SAT/ACT prep, along with tutoring geared toward higherlevel skills. With 11 locations in New Jersey, you’re sure to find one nearby or you can sign up for programs online.

The Writers Circle Multiple locations writerscircleworkshops.com From folktales to poems, weekly workshops aim to ignite a creative spark in storytellers grades 3-12. The Storytellers Circle, Story Magic and Out of this World are perfect for young writing enthusiasts, while middle and high schoolers will enjoy the Tween and Teen Writers Circles, respectively. The Circle is currently offering in-person and virtual options. FOREIGN LANGUAGE

HudsonWay Immersion School Stirling hwis.org Native speakers help kids in pre-K through grade 8 navigate fun, 90-minute immersion classes

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in Spanish and Mandarin. With a mix of novice, intermediate and advanced classes, kids will work on their skills in foreign language listening, reading, writing and speaking. HudsonWay is currently offering remote and in-person options.

Jump Immersion Multiple locations jumpimmersion.com A Spanish and Mandarin immersion private school by day, Jump also offers a separate Saturday immersion program for kids ages 4-12, plus after-school classes to help former immersion and heritage speakers. Weekend immersion programs are available online.

The Language Institute West Caldwell thelanguageinstitute.com Ages 6 and up can try Saturday or weekday classes (with a max of five children per group) for 10 weeks. Kids develop speaking and comprehension skills through games, songs and hands-on projects.

The Language Workshop for Children Montclair, Ridgewood languageworkshopforchildren.com Interactive, private classes feature boisterous stories, snappy songs and engaging dialogue to get kids ages 2 and older excited about learning French, Spanish or Italian. Qualified instructors also provide language tutoring for older students.

as At-Home Coding are available as well.

Little Ivy Academy Multiple locations littleivyacademy.com Grades K-8 learn the tech behind toys at labs that teach coding, gadget creation, robot making, website development and more. Kids can have fun with STEAM virtually through the Academy Online or participate in a variety of robotics/computer science-related programs at the Little Ivy Academy campus in Ridgewood.

Mad Science Multiple locations madscience.org Mad Science revels in hands-on classes in forensics, astronomy, magnetism, slimy stuff (chemistry) and other natural wonders. Interactive online and in-person classes designed for students between the ages of 5-12 will take them to the stars or teach them about engineering through LEGObuilding.

Montclair Learning Center Montclair mlcplus.com The center specializes in computer science, learning games, math, science and technology. Flexible and fun classes range from engineering and coding to 3-D design and Minecraft. Offering inperson classes.

STEAM Works Studio STEAM

Code Ninjas Multiple locations codeninjas.com Kids ages 7-14 can master coding skills at their own pace and convenience (drop in anytime). They’ll earn colored wristbands as they level up in coding and create games. Locations are individually owned, so call ahead for in-person classes, but virtual activities such

Multiple locations steamworksstudio.com With a focus on math and science for ages 4-18, STEAM Works offers small class sizes ensuring each student receives individual attention. Hands-on experiments keep everyone engaged. The studio also holds weekend classes covering disciplines such as animation and 3-D printing/ modeling (engineering). Offering both in-person and online classes.

LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER

After a year with very few school trips, it’s time to start preparing for new adventures. Whether you’re planning a day out, working with your PTA on a class trip or enriching homeschooling for the kids, these spots offer fun, hands-on learning. BY NIA SYLVA

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BRONX ZOO

1 Riverside Dr., Camden 844-474-3474

2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 718-220-5100

The kids will marvel at the aquarium’s collection of more than 15,000 aquatic animals—which includes the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast. Take a walk through the shark tunnel, and get up close and personal with hippos.

Get close to gorillas, see tigers from the monorail, watch sea lion and penguin feedings, walk through the Madagascar exhibit and more. Indoor exhibits like JungleWorld and the World of Reptiles are great in case of unexpected rain.

ALLEY POND ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

212 West 83rd Street, NYC 212-721-1223

224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens, NY 718-229-4000 A day at the Alley Pond Environmental Center includes a guided interpretive walk and a chance to meet live animals or try a STEMbased activity. Class visits are by reservation only, so make sure to sign up in advance.

AMERICA’S GROW-A-ROW 150 Pittstown Rd., Pittstown 908-331-2962 Visitors will learn about food scarcity and plants. Classes can visit, or the organization can come to them to teach about healthy eating and agriculture.

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 200 Central Park West at 79th St., NYC 212-769-5100 From dinosaurs to outer space, there’s so much to explore here. Pick a floor or hall and use the museum’s online field trip guides to customize your trip.

BATTLESHIP NEW JERSEY 62 Battleship Pl., Camden 856-966-1652 Visit the massive ship docked in the Delaware River on the Camden Waterfront and step into a fascinating chapter in the history of war. Kids can spend the night aboard in bunks starting September 17.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF MANHATTAN

Young students will love the Inside Art exhibit, hanging out with two of their favorite Nickelodeon characters at Adventures with Dora and Diego, or becoming superheroes when they visit the Superpowered Metropolis.

CIRCLE LINE SIGHTSEEING CRUISES Pier 83, Midtown, NYC 212-563-3200 With tour guides and outdoor decks to provide views of more than 130 NYC landmarks, Circle Line’s cruises are a great way to see the city! Circumnavigate the island of Manhattan on the Best of NYC Cruise, head to the Statue of Liberty on the Liberty Midtown Cruise, or see the best Manhattan has to offer on the Landmarks Cruise.

THE COASTAL EXPERIENCE Various locations 732-872-1300, ext. 13 Little marine biologists can learn everything about the sea, from the history of Sandy Hook to how humans affect the ocean and its inhabitants. In-person field trips will start again in the spring, but kids can enjoy virtual learning programs for now.

COOPER GRISTMILL 66 Rte. 24, Chester Township 908-879-5463 Nathan Cooper built this gristmill in 1826, and it’s now one of the only remaining restored water-

powered mills in NJ. The site spans 14 acres rich with history; visitors can step back in time with a 45-minute tour led by a costumed master miller.

DA VINCI SCIENCE CENTER 3145 Hamilton Blvd. Bypass, Allentown, PA 484-664-1002 Learn how electricity works, explore the Engineers on a Roll playscape and lab, discover the motion of the ocean at Wave Power, take a seat in the Newton chairs and more.

FIELD STATION: DINOSAURS Overpeck County Park Henry Hoebel Area, Fort Lee Rd., Leonia 855-999-9010 Travel 90 million years back in time with more than 30 life-sized, moving, robotic dinosaurs. Kids can feel like real paleontologists as they look at fossils and study dino eating habits. Open weekends year-round with an extended summer schedule.

FOSTERFIELDS LIVING HISTORICAL FARM 73 Kahdena Rd., Morristown 973-326-7645 Kids can experience life in the fields as it was in the 1920s when Cara Foster—whose father, Charles, purchased the land in 1881—ran the farm. They’ll love feeding chickens, brushing cows and learning about the Industrial Revolution in the old-school mills.

FRANKLIN INSTITUTE 222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, PA 215-448-1200 Do you remember walking your way through the gigantic human heart at this science museum? It’s still there—and as beloved as ever. There’s also a mirror maze, escape rooms, science shows, 3-D printing displays and more.

FRANKLIN MINERAL MUSEUM 32 Evans St., Franklin 973-827-3481 Little geologists will learn how minerals and mining affect us as they view impressive mineral specimens from the area. Though currently operating on a limited basis due to COVID, the museum is still open Friday-Sunday.

THE GAGASPHERE 140 Franklin Tpke., Waldwick 201-445-2546 In the Physics of Motion School Assembly, members of the Gaga team will visit your school and lead students on an investigation into the laws of motion using the principles of Gaga, a form of dodgeball that originated in Israel.

ADVENTURE AQUARIUM

GREAT SWAMP WATERSHED ASSOCIATION

Highlights include wagon rides, house tours, completion of traditional farm chores like cow milking and egg collecting, chicken feed processing, ice cream making and butter churning.

Intrepid Adventure programs are also available.

THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT ALLAIRE

GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE

This former factory town is now a living history experience where kids can get a glimpse of life during the 19th century. Historic interpreters dressed in period garb give tours and demos about life pre-electricity.

Kids already love it here for the rides and Jersey Shore-inspired boardwalk. Now, they’ll love it for its innovative science-themed field trip programs, too. Interactive programs teach concepts like force, friction and momentum with laser mazes, go karts, roller coasters and more attractions. Ask about the Adventure Workbook, covering everything from science to history to math.

80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton 609-586-0616

HOWELL LIVING HISTORY FARM

LAKOTA WOLF PRESERVE

70 Woodens Ln., Lambertville 609-737-3299

89 Mt. Pleasant Rd., Columbia 908-496-9244

Open since the 1730s, this farm is a prime location for learning about growing produce. School trips are meant to provide hands-on experiences that engage kids in the seasonal activities of a working farm. Kids can explore the hen house, corn crib and ox barn as well as the windmill and blacksmith area; depending on the season, they will also be able to watch demonstrations in maple sugaring and sheep shearing. Virtual programs are also available.

Take a Wolf Watch tour to get to know these majestic animals. You’ll see the wolves at play, along with bobcats and foxes. Young photography enthusiasts can also take the opportunity to snap pictures of the wildlife and scenery.

568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown 973-538-3500 High schoolers can learn the ins and outs of water quality monitoring or explore terrestrial ecology/wetlands hydrology, while younger students will love searching for macroinvertebrates in a local body of water. Schedule a customized field trip or use one of the facility’s lesson plans to bring the Great Swamp into your classroom.

More than a garden, this beautiful spot combines both nature and art. Filled with contemporary works, the grounds boast more than 270 spectacular sculptures across 42 acres.

GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM OF ART

FROM LEFT: AMERICAN DREAM / FIELD STATION: DINOSAURS

1071 Fifth Ave, NYC 212-423-3500 In case the museum’s incredible exhibits aren’t enough incentive to visit, the building itself is also one of eight Frank Lloyd Wright designs designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means that while students marvel at the Guggenheim’s collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern French masterpieces, they are also exploring an architectural masterpiece. The museum is also currently offering one-hour museum tours for K-12 students.

HEALTHBARN USA 1057 Hillcrest Rd., Ridgewood 201-444-2955 Kids will learn the benefits of fresh produce and a healthy lifestyle through a visit to the garden, a smoothie taste test and a planting session with recyclable pots and games.

HISTORIC LONGSTREET FARM 44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel 732-946-3758 See how farmers worked back in the 1890s.

4263 Atlantic Ave., Farmingdale 732-919-3500

IMAGINE THAT!!! 4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park 973-966-8000 Hit the music room to jam and play instruments, the puppet theater for a show, the arts and crafts area to get creative or the castle jungle gym play area to exert all that energy. Don’t leave without a visit to the pirate ship and fishing area, the train exhibit and the magnet wall!

INTREPID SEA, AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Pier 86, W. 46th St. and 12th Ave., NYC 212-245-0072 Visitors to the legendary aircraft carrier will be amazed by the Space Shuttle Pavilion, where they’ll get a close-up look at a retired NASA space shuttle. Kids can also walk through a former military submarine, check out the interactive Exploreum and more. Free virtual education and

iPLAY AMERICA 110 Schanck Rd., Freehold 732-577-8200

LIBERTY HALL MUSEUM 1003 Morris Ave., Union 908-527-0400 This mansion is home to antique furniture, art and a rich history. Guests will be transported to the Victorian era while learning about NJ’s first governor.

LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City 201-200-1000 The kids will get hands-on experience with electricity, amphibians and much more as they explore the museum and participate in programs designed for field trips, which include laboratory workshops and virtual stage presentations. Don’t miss limited-time exhibits or a show in the biggest planetarium in the western hemisphere!

MACCULLOCH HALL 45 MacCulloch Ave., Morristown 973-538-2404 This museum offers custom field trips by

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site where George Washington and the Continental Army survived the winter of 1779. There are 27 miles of hiking trails to explore and kids can go on a scavenger hunt to become Junior Rangers.

MEDIEVAL TIMES

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MATHEMATICS

149 Polito Ave, Lyndhurst 888-935-6878

11 East 26th Street, NYC 212-542-0566

Visitors will be guests of the Queen at this royal banquet. The castle is home to knights, falcons and horses who’ll put on an amazing show, complete with hand-to-hand combat and jousting.

Offering in-person and online field trips for kids in kindergarten through 12th grade, students will attend educator-led sessions on topics like cryptography and topology. Kids can use statistics to nail a free-throw, create stereographic images by manipulating metal plates and even ride a tricycle with square wheels!

MONMOUTH MUSEUM 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft 732-747-2266 Explore monthly themes like pop art, space and math with hands-on crafts and workshops. Wander the Becker Children’s Wing and Wonder Wing to board pirate ships, learn about ancient Egypt and more.

MONTCLAIR ART MUSEUM 3 S. Mountain Ave., Montclair 973-746-5555 Virtual field trips at the Montclair Art Museum present students with 3D images of the gallery, feature artists of diverse backgrounds and are live and interactive. Themes include “eco art,” Native American art and portraits of American landscapes; students can make art using Creativity Kits that can be sent to their schools in advance.

MORRIS MUSEUM 6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown 973-971-3700 Think galleries of geological finds from NJ and beyond, as well as American Indian cultures, the Science of Sound and more. Don’t miss kiddie shows at the attached Bickford Theater.

MORRISTOWN NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK 30 Washington Pl., Morristown 973-539-2016, ext. 210 This National Historical Park is located at the

NEW YORK HALL OF SCIENCE 47-01 111th St., Queens, NY 718-699-0005 Explore more than 450 exhibits at this museum where students can take a tour of the solar system and learn about all things science from more than 30 unique education programs. If you can’t make it to Queens, your child’s teacher can video conference workshops from the classroom.

OLD BARRACKS MUSEUM 101 Barrack St., Trenton 609-396-1776

NEWARK MUSEUM

Head to the state’s capital city to see where soldiers lived during the Revolutionary War. All field trips were virtual last year, but the museum has since re-opened for in-person visits.

49 Washington St., Newark 973-596-6550

PATERSON GREAT FALLS

Experience the Newark Museum from the comfort of the classroom with virtual field trips and science and tech fairs. Teachers can pick from a variety of trip themes organized by grade and ranging from African Art to escape rooms and fossils or design a custom virtual trip of their own.

NEW JERSEY STATE HOUSE 145 W. State St., Trenton 609-847-3150 Once re-opened for in-person tours, visitors will have the chance to learn about NJ representatives, visit the Senate and General Assembly galleries and explore the building’s art and architecture. For now, the State House’s Virtual Classroom materials are available and teachers can also schedule virtual class visits to bring NJ’s legislature to them!

NEW JERSEY STATE MUSEUM 205 W. State St., Trenton 609-292-6464 Dive into fascinating pieces of Garden State history like Native American artifacts, dinosaur fossils and flags from the Civil War. Visit the planetarium in person or check out the museum’s Virtual Planetarium Sky Talks from home.

72 McBride Ave., Paterson 973-523-0370 This stunning natural attraction has magnificent waterfalls that you can almost reach out and touch, all while learning about the history of Paterson and its industrial renaissance on a guided tour. The museum itself is currently closed, but reservations are available for tours and the falls are accessible and free to visit for everyone.

PLEASE TOUCH MUSEUM 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 215-581-3181 Touching the artwork is half the fun here. We love Wonderland, where they’ll feel like they’ve fallen down the rabbit hole, and Rocket Room, where they’ll learn about space and launch their own rocket in Mission Control.

PRINCETON UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM Elm Dr., Princeton 609-258-3788 Though the galleries have been closed so that a new museum can be constructed, online resources like digital exhibitions, art-making classes and on-demand videos can still help you to get the Princeton museum experience.

QUEENS COUNTY FARM MUSEUM 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Queens, NY 718-347-3276 Seasonal education programs include fall forays into apple cider pressing, composting and sustainability. Winter quilting lessons and spring sessions on the history of NYC and the importance of pollinators are also available.

RAPTOR TRUST 1390 White Bridge Rd., Millington 908-647-2353

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FROM LEFT: PLEASE TOUCH MUSEUM / MONMOUTH MUSEUM

grade. First graders can tour the garden, kitchen and drawing room while grades 2-3 get the scoop on plant cycles and composting. You can also bring the experience to you with a classroom visit.

Kids can learn about hawks, eagles, owls and other birds of prey being rehabilitated. They’ll learn the role these birds play in the food chain and see them in action while touring the facility.

after learning about the 19th century port of New York. Visitors can enter some of the ships as part of the 2021 Season of Seaport Museum Open Days or do virtual tours.

RED MILL MUSEUM VILLAGE

STATUE OF LIBERTY

50 Fairmount Rd., Long Valley 908-876-3200

56 Main St., Clinton 908-735-4101

Liberty State Park Morris Pesin Dr., Jersey City 201-915-3403

During a guided tour, kids can visit farm animals and learn to age cheese. Stop at the Sheep Shoppe for a unique souvenir.

Tours of this 19th century Hunterdon County landmark will make kids feel like they’ve stepped back in time. They can learn about everything from life during the 1800s to 19th century textile production as they walk the grounds or try their hand at basket making and weaving. Go in the fall for spooky ghost tours.

RUTGERS GEOLOGY MUSEUM 85 Somerset St., New Brunswick 848-932-7243 The Geology Museum is currently closed for in-person visits, but virtual programs like bilingual tours and paint-along events still allow your students to get the museum experience.

SCHIFF NATURE PRESERVE 339 Pleasant Valley Rd., Mendham 973-543-6004

FROM LEFT: THE RAPTOR TRUST / YOGI BERRA MUSEUM & LEARNING CENTER

Dubbed the place where “wild things happen naturally,” Schiff is home to 15 miles of trails, 768 acres of protected land and plenty of educational programs. Most programs are being held outdoors so make sure to register 24 hours in advance!

Visitors can climb the pedestal but the crown remains closed at this time. On Ellis Island—the museum itself is open, but theaters remain closed for now. You can also check out the newly opened Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island.

STORM KING ART CENTER 1 Museum Rd., New Windsor, NY 845-534-3115 Kids will marvel at the large-scale works of art and on-site commissions at this open-air arts center located on 500 acres in New York’s Hudson Valley. You’ll get lots of steps as you take in a huge collection of contemporary sculptures. For now, it’s open as an outdoor experience only with limited capacity.

211 Main St., West Orange 973-736-0550, ext. 11

SEA LIFE AQUARIUM 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford 551-234-6382

TiLT

SOUTH STREET SEAPORT MUSEUM 12 Fulton St., NYC 212-748-8600 This museum offers tours of historic buildings and ships and interactive learning activities. Kids can ride a tugboat or schooner

VALLEY SHEPHERD CREAMERY

WALL STREET WALKS Various locations, Downtown, NYC 212-666-0175 Take the signature Wall Street Tour to learn about this economic hub’s beginnings, or try a tour designed for students: themes include financial literacy, Panics, Crashes and the Financial Crisis (which explores the impact of the Great Depression on the financial sector) and the women who’ve made their mark on Wall Street.

THE WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION CENTER 303 Midland Ave., Garfield 201-257-2231 Students can visit this center on field trips to learn how important bats are to the ecosystem. Kids can watch presentations on bats, reptiles and rainforest critters, plus see animals up close.

THOMAS EDISON NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

They may know Thomas Edison invented the light bulb, but what about his other works? Here, kids can explore his chemistry lab and tour the Black Maria, Edison’s first film studio.

Kids will come face-to-face with 3,000 different exotic aquatic creatures in more than 20 marine exhibits (and get even closer to some, thanks to the touch tank). There are also education workshops covering subjects like habitats and animal behavior.

You’ll love the hands-on farm and aviary, where the budgerigars hop on your hands as you feed them.

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford 833-263-7326 Become one with the art at TiLT, which provides an immersive art experience designed (with guests of all ages in mind) by award-winning artist Tracy Lee Stum. The museum also features new pieces from emerging artists.

YOGI BERRA MUSEUM & LEARNING CENTER Montclair State University 8 Yogi Berra Dr., Little Falls 973-655-2378 This museum is dedicated to the life and work of the New York Yankees legend. Fifth through 12th graders can choose from four topics for field trips: Baseball & STEM Experience; Poetry, Spoken Word & Yogi-isms, Discovering the Negro Leagues and Standing Up. Field trips are currently running virtually and in person.

ZIMMERLI ART MUSEUM 71 Hamilton St., New Brunswick 848-932-7237

TURTLE BACK ZOO 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange 973-731-5800 This zoo keeps adding more amazing stuff, like a giraffe exhibit and a sea turtle recovery center.

Kids can check out thousands of pieces of art, take drawing classes, go on educator-led discovery tours and so much more when the museum reopens September 1st.

BIG BOOK OF EDUCATION

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All Year, Every Year Applies to grades 9-12

This one is obvious but encourage your child to try to consistently get good grades. Your child’s GPA matters more now that so many schools have gone test-optional. Take high-level classes in areas of interest. Colleges like to see students challenge themselves with honors, Advanced Placement (AP) and other ambitious offerings that show rigor and curiosity.

Middle School Middle school?! Yep. “Before students even get into high school, we focus on making sure they are positioned to take full advantage of those four years when high school grades and experiences count for college,” says Krystle DiCristofalo, educational consultant and owner of My Ivy Education in Summit. There are math prerequisites kids should ideally take by 7th or 8th grade if they hope to enroll in AP classes. Plus, it’s an ideal time to master the art of studying, she says. “The knowledge of not just ‘what’ to learn, but also ‘how’ to learn to get good grades,” is a competency more kids should be taught.

Be strategic about extracurricular activities. Delve into passion projects where they can make an impact and maximize leadership.

Teach your child study skills or consider hiring a tutor specializing in them. Every child can benefit from enhanced organizational and executive function skills.

Choose meaningful summer activities. Volunteering, traveling, interning, working, special interest camps… anything truly engaging counts towards building a well-rounded resume.

Start discussing what interests and inspires them with the goal of discerning how they might make an impact on their community and world.

By JENNIFER KANTOR

If the road to college seems daunting, you’re not alone. The pressure on students and parents is intense. The hyper competitiveness, amplified by social media, can be overwhelming. But remember there are countless paths available to your kid. If college is the path your child is on, our year-by-year time line will help keep you and your family on the college application straight and narrow.

Freshman Year

Sophomore Year

Ready to hit the ground running? It’s okay to walk—with purpose. “This is a transition year. It’s about exploration,” says Lisa Bleich, founder and president of College Bound Mentor in Westfield. Encourage your newly minted 9th grader to check out anything that piques their interests with the goal of genuine discovery. “You want them to follow the things they really like to do,” she says. Colleges love students with a deep passion in a few areas and this is how they get there. “Figure out where you’re going to put your energy,” she recommends to her charges.

By now students should be settled and in their groove. As they level up in terms of difficulty, it’s important to gauge talent for a subject versus the effort required to succeed at a higher level. “You want to get that right balance,” says Bleich. “Even the smartest kid may not have the ability to put in the effort, and get burnt out.” It’s better to choose one or two extracurriculars to go deep, than do a lot of things on the surface, she says.

Get a little extra with extracurriculars. It’s a great way to make new friends and develop potential leadership opportunities. Check with your guidance counselor to ensure you’re on track with prerequisites. Make a plan.

Take the PSAT 10 for practice. Students hoping to win a National Merit Scholarship based on their junior year PSAT should start studying now and continue over the summer. Determine which standardized test is a better fit by taking the SAT or ACT in June or over the summer (test prep companies often offer this for free). Start soul searching. What does the ideal college look like: big, small, city, country? What might they want to study? A personality test can help assess who they are—which can help them figure out where to go. Encourage your child to really figure out what they want, instead of shaping themselves to fit a particular school.

Junior Year Encourage your student to work hard in every class, and, if possible, step up to leadership roles. “They should be making a significant impact in whatever they’re doing,” says Bleich. At this point, most students will be focused on standardized tests, although that’s not a given these days. “Even prior to COVID-19, many more colleges are going test-optional or not even considering the SAT or ACT at all anymore,” says DiCristofalo. This means other metrics are that much more important. “Summer programs, extracurricular activities, internships and national competitions—the importance of enrichment programs cannot be overstated,” she says. Take the PSAT in the fall. Apply to competitive, pre-college summer

programs by the late fall deadline. Typically hosted at top universities, they offer an advanced foray into specialties like engineering and math, giving kids an intellectual challenge. Register for the SATs and/or ACTs. Winter is an ideal time since it allows time for retakes. Sign up for tutoring or test prep classes. If it coincides with the student’s athletic season or school production, consider a test date that allows them time to study without sacrificing sleep or sanity. Research schools by visiting websites, talking to parents, attending college fairs, touring

schools virtually or visiting in person as early as the summer before 11th grade. Ask for teacher recommendations in the spring (ask someone who can speak to your child’s excellence as a student and person). Reach out to college coaches to let them know about your student athlete. By late spring, have a list of 10-15 schools at various levels of selectivity from safety to reach. Know what requirements are expected: years devoted to a foreign language; which if any subject tests are needed for admission; admission materials for specific majors (ie. art portfolios); if interviews are expected, etc.

BIG BOOK OF EDUCATION

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Junior/Senior Summer Whether your child’s attending a specialized program, working, volunteering, creating a highlight tape or visiting schools, the summer before senior year is all about preparing for college. Create a master list of application and scholarship deadlines. “A spreadsheet really is your best friend,” says Bleich. Start filling out the Common Application, especially general areas and applications with early deadlines. Work on the college essay. Ideally, it should be in solid shape come September.

Senior Year It’s the home stretch. The final year of high school is about two things: applying to colleges and avoiding the senior academic slump. Take the SAT or ACT one last time.

Considering early decision? Devote extra time to perfecting your number one school’s application. Focus on finances. Check out the College Board’s Net Price Calculator to figure out which schools are potentially affordable (noting which schools do and don’t offer merit scholarships if need-based aid isn’t applicable). Parents should start gathering the materials (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.) necessary to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Board’s College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile. Both open each year on October 1.

Continue visiting schools, especially those high on your list. Complete the Common Application, devoting extra time to individual schools’ supplemental and short-answer essays (see where there’s overlap). Apply to early decision (binding) and early action (non-binding) picks as soon as possible, since your odds of getting in and getting needbased and merit money are greatly improved by being proactive. Apply in early fall for national scholarships (local ones tend to have later deadlines). Make sure test scores, transcripts and any additional materials have been sent to applied-to schools. Don’t forget to add them to your FAFSA and CSS school lists. Wait. Wait some more. Weigh acceptances and financial aid offers. Visit schools again if you’re on the fence (it feels different after you’re accepted). Offered a waitlist spot at a top choice? “Send a letter of continued interest including all the achievements the student has racked up since applying,” says DiCristofalo. Cross your fingers. Make a decision. Pay the deposit. Celebrate decision day!

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New Jersey Family: Big Book of Education 2021

Articles inside

College Countdown

Take a Trip

Meet the School

Gifted Learners

After School Enrichment

Bullies in School

Testing 1,2,3

Private School Prep

Clean Bill of Health

COVID Slide

The Montessori Difference

Mental Health Help

Special Needs IEPs