Rating schools in nj: 2023 New Jersey Schools | Public, Charter, & Private School Ratings
10 best school districts in New Jersey
Student performance and the quality of teachers play a major role in determining which school districts are better than others.
But those aren’t the only measures one should consider when picking the best spot for their child to grow and learn — at least according to the online review site Niche.
Their 2023 rankings grade New Jersey school districts across nine categories: academics; teachers; clubs and activities; sports; resources and facilities; diversity; college prep; administration; and food.
More than 20 districts received an overall grade of A+. Below are the 10 districts that performed the best, based on Niche’s criteria.
Some districts that made the list are made up of only high schools.
10. Mountain Lakes School District
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- Sports: A
- Food: A
- Diversity: C+
Quote posted on Niche:
“We have 4 kids in Mountain Lakes schools (2 in the elementary and 2 in the middle school). We feel that the education and other activities (clubs, music, theater, etc…) are excellent and the environment is safe and optimal for kids to thrive. We have nothing but positive feedback for the teachers and school system.”
9. Pascack Valley Regional High School District
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- Clubs & Activities: A+
- Resources & Facilities: B
- Diversity: C+
Quote posted on Niche:
“Pascack Valley is a very inclusive place that cares deeply about each and every one of their students. The teachers are very personable and easy to talk to. There is a club for everything you could possibly be interested in, as this school accepts everyone.”
8. Summit Public School District
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- Clubs & Activities: A
- Food: A-
- Resources & Facilities: B
Quote posted on Niche:
“Summit Public Schools has been an amazing experience with excellent teachers and engaging programs.
Just comparing between my experience and my sister’s ten years ago, there has been an increase in diversity and student-teacher engagement. They are constantly working to better themselves.”
7. Livingston Public Schools
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- Clubs & Activities: A-
- Administration: A
- Diversity: B
Quote posted on Niche:
“Students feel safe at school because they know that they always have someone to talk to. Livingston High School uses all of its resources to make sure that their students get a great education while also feeling comfortable in their surroundings.”
6. Tenafly Public School District
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- Administration: A-
- Food: B
- Sports: C+
Quote posted on Niche:
“A highly academic school district that values the effects of social and emotional activities as well as the truly academic.
Classes are challenging and students are encouraged to participate in team events, competitions, and activities outside of the classroom that can further expand their knowledge by applying it to real-life situations.”
10 best places to raise a family in NJ
5. Ridgewood Public School District
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- College prep: A+
- Resources & Facilities: B
- Diversity: B-
Quote posted on Niche:
“I was a student in the Ridgewood Public School District from 2009-2022. This was a good environment to learn in because of the academic rigor especially in high school. I think that most teachers were caring and were willing to help each student. Most courses in high school properly prepared me for college courses. I felt safe in the district because the police and fire department were always notified and they would be there should an incident have occurred.
The diversity is where the district struggled because a majority of students were either Caucasian or Asian.”
4. West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional Regional School District
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- Administration: A-
- Sports: B+
- Food: B-
Quote posted on Niche:
“I have gone through the district since I was in Kindergarten and now looking back as a senior I can say it was a challenging yet stimulating experience. The district is know for its competitive atmosphere in academics and I can say that is very much true. However, the challenging environment also allowed me to hold a certain standard for myself and to continue striving for success.”
3. Princeton Public Schools
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- Administration: A
- Clubs & Activities: A-
- Sports: B+
Quote posted on Niche:
“I would rate my experience with Princeton Public Schools as very good because I have received a broad liberal arts education, I have been challenged, and I have been introduced to new subjects and experiences.
The dedicated staff and faculty at Princeton Public Schools make it a lively environment, where students are enthusiastic to learn. In addition, the sports and arts programs are well-recognized.”
2. Northern Valley Regional High School District
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- Clubs & Activities: A+
- Administration: A
- Resources & Facilities: B
Quote posted on Niche:
“The thing I liked the most about Northern Valley is that the teachers are well educated and work hard for their students. It has a diversity of students and a great sports program. The counselors and principals are very helpful as well. The vibe and energy is always positive. Also, Northern Valley takes bullying very seriously.”
1. Millburn Township School District
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- Academics: A+
- Teachers: A+
- College prep: A+
- Administration: A
- Diversity: B
Quote posted on Niche:
“Excellent people, good education, met a ton of friends and bonded over extracurriculars! It was a great experience and I learned a ton at my school. The school encourages excellence academically and extracurricularly.”
Dino Flammia is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at [email protected]
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.
Up or down? Average property tax changes in NJ in 2022
Below are the average property tax bills for every municipality in New Jersey last year.
The towns are listed from the biggest cut in the average bill to the highest increase. On the county maps, the deeper red color means a higher increase above 2% whereas the darker green signifies a smaller increase or a reduction.
Each listing also shows how the average tax bill is split among the county, school and municipal governments.
The 30 best rated schools in New Jersey
Here are the top 30 schools statewide, based on their 2021-2022 New Jersey School Performance Reports — involving scores for language arts, math and attendance. (For an explanation of how the state calculates the “accountability indicator scores” and overall rating for each school, see page 90 of this reference guide.)
Best Private Schools in New Jersey (2023)
For the 2023 school year, there are 1,364 private schools serving 210,491 students in New Jersey (there are 2,565 public schools, serving 1,342,168 students). 14% of all K-12 students in New Jersey are educated in private schools (compared to the national average of 10%).
The average private school tuition is $14,237 for elementary schools and $18,871 for high schools (view national tuition averages).
The best top ranked private schools in New Jersey include Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child (Lower School), Primoris Academy and Stuart Country Day School.
The average acceptance rate is 80% (view national acceptance rates). Minority enrollment is 39% and the student:teacher ratio is 11:1.
43% of schools are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and Jewish).
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Top Ranked New Jersey Private Schools by County (2023)
Popular cities: Lakewood (79 schools), Jersey City (31 schools), Trenton (26 schools), Edison (25 schools), Newark (22 schools).
County
# Schools
# Students
% Minority
Atlantic County
27
4,523
28%
Bergen County
169
27,815
40%
Burlington County
62
6,571
31%
Camden County
76
12,231
34%
Cape May County
8
767
15%
Cumberland County
11
1,221
35%
Essex County
98
16,617
57%
Gloucester County
33
3,812
19%
Hudson County
57
10,667
60%
Hunterdon County
17
858
22%
Mercer County
72
10,961
38%
Middlesex County
125
16,494
52%
Monmouth County
127
19,456
24%
Morris County
95
11,845
27%
Ocean County
114
28,899
12%
Passaic County
69
10,369
51%
Salem County
2
141
32%
Somerset County
78
9,772
35%
Sussex County
22
2,847
11%
Union County
92
13,569
47%
Warren County
10
1,056
25%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked private schools in New Jersey?
The best top ranked private schools in New Jersey include Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child (Lower School), Primoris Academy and Stuart Country Day School.
How many private schools are located in New Jersey?
1,364 private schools are located in New Jersey.
How much do private schools cost in New Jersey?
The average private school tuition in New Jersey is $14,237 for elementary schools and $18,871 for high schools
How diverse are private schools in New Jersey?
New Jersey private schools are approximately 39% minority students (view national minority students).
What percentage of students in New Jersey go to private school?
14% of all K-12 students in New Jersey are educated in private schools (compared to national average of 10%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in New Jersey?
43% of private schools in New Jersey are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and Jewish).
School Marketing SEO: To Do and What Not to Do
When searching on Google, how often do you venture beyond the first page of results? Do you click on the top-ranking website? Statistics show that 27.
6% of people click on the first result they see on Google. So, the burning question is: How can you position your school in that coveted #1 spot?
Exploring the Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education: An Interview with Loris Malaguzzi
Discover the Reggio Emilia approach, a revolutionary educational philosophy that empowers children to become active participants in their own learning. Learn about its core principles, holistic development benefits, teacher and parent roles, and how you can support this approach at home.
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Dive into an exclusive interview with Rudolf Steiner, the visionary behind Waldorf Education, as he shares his motivations, goals, challenges, and funding strategies. Discover the holistic approach to education, its impact on students and society, and the enduring legacy of Waldorf Education.
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The Lawrenceville School – admission assistance, prices, reviews and ratings
The Lawrenceville School, located in the picturesque town of the same name in New Jersey, has long been recognized as one of the country’s most outstanding private boarding schools. A school steeped in history and tradition, it offers its students a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes a comprehensive academic experience, outstanding faculty, diverse extracurricular opportunities, a close-knit community, and a commitment to raising tomorrow’s leaders.
The cornerstone of The Lawrenceville School’s experience is an innovative and cutting-edge curriculum.
The Harkness method of teaching, which promotes student discussion and collaboration in small classes, serves as the foundation for the academic program. This approach encourages the development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills and effective communication. The school’s interdisciplinary programs, such as the History of Ideas course, organically combine several subject areas, inspiring students to explore new intellectual horizons. Unique branded programs in environmental studies, robotics, and entrepreneurship allow students to delve into specialized areas, while independent study projects and research opportunities, such as the Heely Scholars and Hutchins Scholars programs, help students make time for their academic passions.
The Lawrenceville School boasts talented and dedicated faculty, many with degrees in their respective fields. Respected past and current faculty include Nobel Prize-winning chemist Dudley R. Hershbach and distinguished history teacher Andrew K.
Fletcher. The faculty’s commitment to fostering curiosity and a love of learning is evident in every classroom.
Extracurricular activities at The Lawrenceville School provide students with countless opportunities to develop their interests and talents outside of the classroom. The school system of houses promotes the development of camaraderie and healthy competition through various intra-school activities. Outdoor educational programs such as rock climbing and camping encourage students to develop teamwork and leadership skills. The vibrant arts program at Lawrenceville includes the Periwig Club, which hosts numerous theater productions throughout the year, and there are various musical ensembles at the school that cater to different interests and abilities.
Community and culture are deeply rooted in the Lawrenceville experience with a focus on diversity, inclusion and social responsibility. Students from all over the world come together to create a close-knit and supportive community that values unique perspectives and experiences.
Through countless opportunities to participate in community service, Lawrenceville students also interact with the local community, developing empathy, compassion, and a sense of civic duty.
Lawrenceville graduates are well equipped to succeed in college and beyond. The solid and comprehensive education they receive at Lawrenceville gives them the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their chosen fields. Notable alumni include Michael Eisner, former CEO of The Walt Disney Company; Malcolm Forbes, publisher of Forbes magazine; and Huey Lewis, musician and leader of Huey Lewis and the News.
Lawrenceville School offers an unparalleled educational experience by providing students with a dynamic and supportive environment in which they can grow, learn and thrive. A commitment to academic excellence, community, and personal development makes Lawrenceville the perfect choice for those looking for a truly inspiring boarding school experience and life.
Hun School of Princeton, The
Address: 176 Edgerstoune Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Principal: Jonathan G. Brougham
Founded : 1914
School status: co-ed.
Number of students: in total, 614 students study at the school, of which 525 are in high school, 89 are in junior school, 150 students live in a hostel. The number of students in a class is 12-14 people.
Organization affiliation: is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Location The Hun School of Princeton
The school occupies 47 acres in a cozy, quiet and peaceful area near the city of Princeton and Princeton University.
The Hun School of Princeton
The school was founded by Dr. John Hahn, a professor at Princeton University, one of the oldest and most famous universities in the United States. Dr. John Hahn taught mathematics at the university and subsequently decided to open his own school of mathematics.
The school was originally called the Princeton Math School, but then its name was changed to the Princeton Tutoring School. In 1925 the school received its current name and its own property on Edgerstone Road, where it is located today. In 1930, by order of Dr. Khan, a building for a junior school was built.
In 1971, girls were admitted to the school for the first time. Khan School educates its students in traditional values and has a dynamic curriculum that combines excellence in sports with an exceptionally rich selection of extracurricular activities that include art, clubs and activities. The school strives to develop the interest in learning and the individual talents of each student so that each student realizes his or her full potential. The most vibrant part of life on the Khan School campus is the thriving and diverse community.
Students from all over the world come here to become active participants in school life together. The school has many leadership development programs, forums where students lead discussions, opportunities to participate in community service and weekend recreation during events.
Education at The Hun School of Princeton
School Enrollment: Khan School holds open days for prospective students and their parents to learn more about the school and the school community.
Parents: the school invites parents of students to participate in volunteer activities and participate in the organization of school events.
Curriculum: The school consists of a middle school and a high school. In secondary school (years 6-8) students are taught to be curious, active and ready to explore the world in order to find their place in it. Much attention is paid to practical tasks. The program also includes arts and sports to make the learning process interesting. Middle school teaches students how to solve complex problems and prepares them for the greater demands of high school, university, and life in general. The curriculum in high school is divided into several levels (6, 7 and 8 years of study), each of which includes certain disciplines: English, mathematics, science, sociology, foreign language, US history, introduction to algebra, algebra, geometry, geography, foreign languages, as well as additional courses in art, visual arts, drama, technology.
In high school (9-12 years of study), students study English, history, mathematics, foreign languages, interdisciplinary studies, performing arts, science, visual arts.
Every year, each student must participate in additional classes, as they provide an opportunity to earn credits, without which it is impossible to move on to the next year of study. It is also mandatory to participate in community service (the number of hours depends on the year of study) and to complete the reading program that is set for the summer.
The school has a program for international students “Arthur Rozas”, which prepares new students to study in an American school. The program starts before the start of the academic year. First, students are tested and determined to one of the levels: below average, above average, advanced. Then they study grammar, vocabulary, phonetics, pass listening and write an essay. Communication always takes place in English, and thus they also get speaking practice.
Also, as part of the program, international students take the “Study of America” course, where they get acquainted with American culture and take exams in history, economics and politics.
International students also take courses in math, science, fine arts, computer science, and the humanities as an entry requirement. New students are introduced to the American way of life, interesting historical and cultural places to visit. The program is designed to prepare international students for university studies. You must also have an appropriate TOEFL score for admission. Khan School also offers graduates to complete a university preparation program, including classes in English, science, mathematics, computer science, history, foreign languages, fine arts, sports.
In total, Khan School has 131 educational courses available for study.
Accessibility: English as a Foreign Language, a special education program for students with learning difficulties due to health reasons.
Languages: French and Spanish
Information and Communication Technology (ICT): The school has computer labs and wireless internet access.
After Graduation: To graduate, students must earn a minimum of 20 credits from grades 9 to 12. Khan School graduates enter the country’s leading universities.
Among the graduates of the school there are many outstanding and famous people, for example, Francis Scott Fitzgerald, a famous American novelist, author of the novel The Great Gatsby, Elliot Roosevelt, a US hero during World War II, the son of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt.
The school also offers summer education in educational and sports programs. The school has an alumni association that maintains contact with former students and volunteers. Khan School publishes its own school magazine.
Arts at The Hun School of Princeton
In teaching art, the Khan school is of the opinion that inspiration in art comes from life experiences, worldviews and our values.
It is important for students to develop an understanding and appreciation of the arts within different cultures.
Music: chamber music classes, choir and jazz band performances. You can take private lessons in playing musical instruments. The Music Department strives to expand the selection of music programs, which are already numerous today, such as piano, flute, clarinet, saxophone lessons, vocal lessons and many others. Many of the private teachers are active musicians, university professors and multi-instrumentalists.
Drama and Dance: Jazz dance, voice and ballet classes are held each fall and spring. Then, after training, students perform in the theater in November and May. The theater arts program begins in the 8th year of high school and continues until the final year of study. Students participate in productions and musicals and perform annually: a comedy is staged in the fall, a musical or drama theater in the winter, and a classical play in the spring.
Art and design: architectural drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, 3D art, video production and woodwork.
Sports at The Hun School of Princeton
Kinds of sports
fall term: cross-country running, field hockey, football, American football, tennis;
winter term: fencing, basketball, hockey, swimming;
spring term: tennis, basketball, softball, track and field, lacrosse, golf.
School Life at The Hun School of Princeton
School uniform: optional
Dormitories and Prefects: Han School strives to develop students’ skills such as collaboration, communication, effective time management and prioritization. The school has various leadership development programs where students can develop and practically apply these skills.
Student government: The school has its own student government, which has its own constitution, adopted in November 2013.
Based on the electoral system, the Senate, the Council and the Executive Committee are formed. The Government includes 91 students. Students share ideas and strive to make life better for the student community.
Peer Leadership Program: The program includes the Peer Education Network (PEN), a group of special education students who serve as mentors to younger students. The program also includes a Leadership and Mentorship Program (LAMP) in which all students participate and where leadership skills are taught.
Religion: student community is an association of a large number of nationalities, religions and traditions.
Proctor Program: Proctors are students who help new students adjust to school dorm life and act as a liaison between students and faculty, as well as scheduling weekend activities.
Leadership Development Schedule:
Years 9 and 10 students study the course for one trimester. A series of workshops introduces and develops interdisciplinary skills such as communication, collaboration and critical thinking.
The school has a branch of the international organization “Girls Learn International (GLI)” – a global movement for providing girls around the world with the opportunity to receive an education. Khan School cooperates with a school in India, which is located in a poor region.
Social Life: Khan School has 7 science labs. The school cares about the environment and teaches its students to take care of the environment in order to preserve it for future generations.
Twice a year, students of the school help the Red Cross organization and donate blood.
The school has 54 clubs and various activities, such as crafts, video production, debates, photography, sports, social activities, chess, guitar, etc.
The school has a library with 50,000 books, 4,000 videos, 200 periodical subscriptions, 60 electronic databases, 5 daily newspapers and a large school archive. The library has workplaces equipped with everything necessary for classes, and wireless Internet.