Northern New Jersey

The dynamic educational system in New Jersey is one of the most appealing factors to new residents. Educators continuously review and improve the curriculum to keep the learning process challenging, exciting, and relevant. In addition to promoting the basics of reading, writing and math, staff members emphasize such essential skills as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Parents can also choose from a number of fine private and parochial schools that serve the region.

 

The incorporation of computer labs, hands-on science programs, and high-tech resources encourages interaction while it prepares students for leadership in today’s fast-paced, competitive environment. The accommodations for gifted and challenged students are exceptionally rich, creating a setting that maximizes human potential and enhances the learning experience.

 

Excellence in vocational and technical education, job training, and continuing education opportunities is another widely acclaimed strength of this region. Many respected two-year colleges and four-year institutions are just a few miles from home. Among the many outstanding colleges and universities available are such prestigious institutions such as Fairleigh Dickinson University, the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, and the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey.

 

ACADEMICS

 

New Jersey has long been noted for its excellence in education, consistently producing National Merit Scholars, above-average SAT scores, and impressive percentages of college-bound high-school graduates. Favorable student-teacher ratios and generous per-pupil expenditure reflect the underlying commitment and dedication to providing the finest in classroom materials and tools, individualized instruction, and special programs. Schools often form dynamic partnerships with the corporate and business segments of the community, sharing resources to maintain the leading edge in every endeavor. Northern New Jersey claims a number of highly respected institutions of higher education including the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, although the prestigious Princeton University and Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey are other desirable options located nearby in the Central New Jersey region.

 

Day Care Information

 

The New Jersey Department of Human Services regulates child care throughout the state, monitoring licensed child care centers and thousands of family day-care homes that are voluntarily registered with the state. Contact the Division of Youth & Family Services for details on a specific facility or use the statewide hotline for more general information:

 

Youth & Family Services

609-292-1018

www.state.nj.us/humanservices

 

Statewide Hotline

800-332-9227

 

Private Education

 

The New Jersey Department of Education provides a complete directory that includes non-public schools. This can be ordered for a nominal fee but is also available online. The following resources may also be helpful in evaluating alternative educational environments:

 

Non-Public School Directory

Trenton 609-984-0905

www.state.nj.us/njded/directory

 

Roman Catholic Schools

Archdiocese of Newark

Newark 973-497-4260

www.rcan.org

 

National Association of Private, Catholic & Independent Schools

Ann Arbor, MI 734-930-4535

www.napcis.org

 

Public Education System

 

Consult your local school district for the cut-off date in which a child must be five years old to register for kindergarten. To register your child, bring the child's birth certificate and social security number as well as proof of residency in the school district in the form of a current utility bill, federal tax return, mortgage papers, or a rental lease. A New Jersey drivers license is not acceptable verification for district residency. Registration is not complete without physician-signed verification of required immunizations. Transcripts from previous school attended and legal guardianship or custody papers may be required if applicable. For more complete information or answers to specific questions, contact your local school district:

 

New Jersey Department of Education

Trenton 609-292-4469

www.state.nj.us/education

 

Academic Standards

Trenton 609-984-5322

www.state.nj.us/njded/aps

 

Evaluation & Assessment

Trenton 609-984-6311

www.state.nj.us/njded/assessment

 

Charter School Information

Office of Innovative Programs & Schools

Trenton 609-292-5850

www.state.nj.us/njded/chartsch

 

New Jersey School Districts

 

The website provided by the New Jersey Department of Education features a map with county names that can be "clicked" to learn more about the academic resources for that area. This list includes contacts for the regional director and county superintendent of schools as well as a comprehensive sub-list of school districts, charter schools, technical schools, and special facilities within that county. These lists also include links to each county's Best Practice Winners and Star School Winners.

 

Higher Education

 

Those who desire a four-year college education or beyond will find some of our nation’s most prestigious schools right outside their back door. With institutions like Rutgers University, the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, and the New Jersey Institute of Technology, among others — New Jersey provides abundant options for first-rate education in a wide variety of scientific, research, and medical fields. Some outstanding institutions are just around the corner from home, while others are available within a short commute.

 

The informal campus life and lower tuition of a community college may be the perfect solution for those who want to pursue an associate degree, brush up on a forgotten skill, pick up a new skill or start a brand new hobby.

Regardless of your age, education level, or the community you choose to call home in Northern New Jersey —opportunities for advanced learning will never be more than a short drive away.

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