“Choice” defines Montclair Public Schools. This district offers something unique. It’s a comprehensive community public school district. Montclair serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The Township of Montclair, in Essex County, New Jersey is where you find it.
Montclair Public Schools consists of eleven schools. There are seven elementary schools. Three middle schools exist. And Montclair High School completes the picture. The district had 6,216 students in 2022-2023. It also employed 564.6 classroom teachers. This makes for a student–teacher ratio of 11.0:1.
Notably, Montclair operates under a magnet system. Each school has a special theme. This focus shapes the school’s teaching style. Students have “freedom of choice”. They can attend the school that best suits them. School selection isn’t based on where a student lives. When registering, parents rank their school preferences. Siblings and special needs receive preference. Available space determines final placement.
Montclair’s magnet system started as a desegregation plan. It evolved into a true system of choice. The district is recognized as one of the top six magnet school districts in the U.S.
The elementary schools include Bradford. Its theme is The University Magnet for grades K-5. Charles H. Bullock focuses on Environmental Science, also for K-5. Edgemont embraces the Montessori method for K-5. Hillside caters to Gifted and Talented students in grades 3-5. Nishuane serves Gifted and Talented students in grades K-2. Northeast emphasizes Global Studies for grades K-5. Watchung highlights Science and Technology for grades K-5.
Buzz Aldrin Middle School houses grades 6-8. Glenfield Middle School is Gifted and Talented in Visual and Performing Arts for grades 6-8. Renaissance Middle School at the Rand Building focuses on Liberal Arts for grades 6-8. Montclair High School is comprehensive for grades 9-12.
Two Montclair schools have earned National Blue Ribbon Awards. Watchung School received the award in 1989-90 and 1993-94. Hillside School earned the honor in 1987-88. Nishuane School was named a “Star School” in 1993-94. Watchung School also got this title in 1993-94.
Damon Cooper serves as the interim superintendent. Christina Hunt is the board secretary. She also acts as the school business administrator.
The Montclair Board of Education sets policy. It oversees the district’s fiscal and educational operations. The board consists of nine members. Voters elect them to three-year terms.
Montclair Public Schools offers a diverse education. Its magnet system and dedicated staff enrich the learning environment. The district empowers students. They can pursue their interests and excel academically. Montclair Public Schools prepares students for future success.