Exploring River Edge Schools

The Schools in River Edge, NJ: A Comprehensive Guide to Education in the Community
For families considering a move to River Edge, NJ, the quality of education is often a top priority. Known for its highly rated public schools and strong parental involvement, River Edge provides an excellent learning environment for students from Pre-K through sixth grade. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the River Edge school system, including curriculum details, teacher-to-student ratios, extracurricular opportunities, and community involvement.

An Overview of River Edge Public Schools

River Edge is home to a well-regarded school district serving children from Pre-K through sixth grade. The district consists of two elementary schools—Cherry Hill and Roosevelt Elementary—as well as the New Bridge Center, which houses early childhood programs and special education services. With a student-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, River Edge ensures that children receive personalized attention and a high-quality education.

The district has approximately 1,200 students enrolled each year, with standardized test scores consistently ranking above state and national averages. The New Jersey Department of Education has recognized River Edge for its exemplary academic performance, making it one of the best school districts in Bergen County.

Cherry Hill Elementary School

Cherry Hill Elementary serves students from Pre-K through sixth grade and is known for its academic rigor and strong community support. The school has a dedicated faculty, with more than 70% of teachers holding advanced degrees.

The school’s curriculum focuses on core subjects, including math, science, language arts, and social studies, while incorporating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education. Students have access to gifted and talented programs, as well as specialized support for learners who need extra assistance.

Parental involvement is a key component of Cherry Hill’s success. The Cherry Hill PTO (Parent-Teacher Organization) actively organizes fundraisers, after-school activities, and family engagement events, ensuring that students have access to enriching experiences beyond the classroom.

Roosevelt Elementary School

Like Cherry Hill, Roosevelt Elementary serves kindergarten through sixth grade and is celebrated for its strong academic performance and extracurricular programs. Roosevelt fosters an inclusive and engaging environment, helping students build confidence and develop a love for learning.

Students at Roosevelt participate in project-based learning, hands-on science experiments, and arts integration programs. The school also offers a robust music and performing arts curriculum, with students having opportunities to participate in band, choir, and theater productions.

Roosevelt also benefits from an active PTO, which funds classroom enhancements, provides resources for teachers, and sponsors events like STEM Night, Family Reading Day, and community service initiatives.

New Bridge Center: Early Childhood Education and Special Services

The New Bridge Center is home to the district’s Pre-K program and special education services. Designed to give young learners a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development, the center offers programs that are aligned with the latest early childhood education research.

For students with individualized education plans (IEPs) and special learning needs, New Bridge Center provides targeted support, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized instruction. Teachers and staff work closely with parents to ensure that each child’s unique learning style is accommodated.

Safety and Community Involvement in River Edge Schools

River Edge takes school safety seriously, ensuring that students can focus on learning in a secure environment. Since the 2023-24 school year, the River Edge Police Department has had a dedicated officer stationed at each public school, reinforcing security while also building trust and positive relationships between students and law enforcement.

This initiative has helped students feel safer and more comfortable at school, while also educating them on the role of law enforcement in the community. Officers regularly interact with students, participate in school events, and provide safety education sessions.

Extracurricular Activities and Enrichment Programs

Beyond academics, River Edge schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their interests.

• Sports programs, including soccer, basketball, and track, encourage physical fitness and teamwork.
• STEM clubs and robotics teams give students the chance to apply classroom knowledge in a competitive and collaborative environment.
• Music and performing arts programs provide opportunities for students to develop skills in instrumental music, choral singing, and drama.
• Student leadership programs, like student council and peer mentoring, help foster confidence and leadership skills from an early age.

Why Parents Choose River Edge Schools

The combination of high test scores, dedicated teachers, engaged parents, and an emphasis on both academics and extracurriculars makes River Edge a top choice for families. In fact, homebuyers often prioritize homes in River Edge because of the strong reputation of its schools.

A survey of River Edge parents revealed that over 90% are highly satisfied with their child’s education, citing teacher quality, curriculum strength, and community involvement as the top reasons. With continued investment in technology, facilities, and academic innovation, River Edge remains one of the best places in Bergen County for a high-quality public education.

Final Thoughts

River Edge, NJ, offers exceptional educational opportunities that help students build a strong foundation for future success. With outstanding elementary schools, engaged parents, and a commitment to safety and enrichment, it’s no wonder that families continue to choose River Edge as their home.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home in River Edge, I’d love to help. Feel free to reach out with any questions about real estate, schools, or community life.