New School of Monmouth County

Our youngest child is attending The New School as opposed to public ed. My only regret is that I did not discover this amazing place in time for the older two to attend! This is the type of education that people talk about in the abstract, and yet it is has been an operational reality for many years. If you are looking for a school that educates the whole child and caters to their personality and individualized learning style, look no further. The genuine caring that everyone in this school - from Director to teachers to students exhibit - is evident the moment you walk into the building. These students are constantly challenged to do their own personal best, learn how to learn, and are HAPPY. My daughter cannot wait until Monday. Can you say that about your child's current school?
--Submitted by a parent

We love the New School! The children here are all smart and happy, they are kind and honest, as are the teachers. There is authentic learning and growing going on here. We will send all of our kids to the New School.
--Submitted by a parent

My first experience at The New School was when we first went to visit and learn more about the school. I was so impressed with the children that gave us a tour that I was sold right away. Every one of them was confident, articulate and knew who they were. This is now my son s third year at the school and I am happy to say that we feel that he has already become confident and well spoken. We have had numerous compliments on his ability to willingly and freely carry on a conversation with children as well as adults. One of my favorite things about the school is their ability to learn about each child on an individual basis and motivate them accordingly. The attention the teachers give to the parents is unparalleled-not only academically, but even about issues outside of the educational realm. I know when I was growing up there were many times I asked myself why do I need to learn this? . Their integrated studies approach allows children to better understand what and why they are learning and how everything relates. The project-based learning has allowed my son to gain important leadership lessons that will continue to help him.
--Submitted by a parent

The New School has made an amazing impact in the lives of both of my sons. They are both very different and have grown in extraordinary ways due to the dedication of the teachers and the supportive, creative, flexible and socially-oriented environment. Group work, positive peer interactions, acceptance, tolerance and understanding are of utmost value at The New School. Issues that occur on the playground are processed by the teacher and class. There is no bullying at all, which is amazing in this day and age and a true testament to what children can do with guidance, direction, and an emphasis on how to resolve conflicts. My son is now in the older class and has grown in ways too numerous to mention, but suffice it to say that he would not be who he is were it not for the environment of The New School plus his supportive home environment. My other son is in the equivalent of fifth grade and excels at relating to individuals of all ages and walks of life. He will hold appropriate conversations with adults as well as five-year-olds and is learning how to be a productive leader and member of a group. He is also able to take risks academically even in areas in which he struggles.
--Submitted by a parent

This is our child's first year at the New School and we could not be happier with it. She comes home with a smile on her face and can't wait for the next day of school to start. The teachers are attentive and nurturing as well as challenge the kids in their thought process. We plan to send our son there next year and like the fact that the two of them will be in the same class despite being 2 1/2 years apart in age. The structure of the ungraded class allows teachers to focus on each individual child and tailor a learning plan for them whether they are the equivalent of K or 2nd grade. The focus on relationships and community is a unique feature of the school that has carried over to our home life as well.
--Submitted by a parent

An approach to learning like no other. Our daughter and son both attend the New School. Our daughter is in her 5th year. She began her learning experience in public school. We transitioned her in 3rd grade when we realized the environment that public school provided was not suitable for her. The environment that the New School provides allows children to learn at a pace that is applicable for the child. The interest of the child is taken into consideration. This is what makes the school unique. Their beliefs and practices help mold the child into a unique and mature individual. We see this as our daughter continues her education experience at the school. Our son has been at the New School since kindergarten and is now in his second year. We look forward to their continued success as they continue to grow within the school.
--Submitted by a parent

The New School is truly exceptional. It offers students a nurturing environment in which they can discover and pursue their interests and talents. The sky is the limit in terms of the academic level that a child may reach in an area of strength. The education is truly individualized, and teachers develop close relationships with the students. Students are extremely accepting of each other and learn to work as a community. In an age where middle schools, especially, can be a social minefield and academic pressure-cooker, the New School is an oasis. Children retain and develop their love for learning and their desire to learn. They emerge motivated to be both devoted students and caring human beings.
--Submitted by a parent

My older son went to Port Monmouth Elementary School and Thorne MS and had several fine teachers. But both schools were traditional settings. This year, as our younger son was about to enter first grade we looked around and discovered The New School. Both go there now and we are extremely happy. The kids LOVE school, are pro-active about doing things, and the older even takes work home though it is not required. More than just small classes, the school fosters an environment where the kids, individually and collectively, take substantial leadership and initiative in their own education, especially in helping formulate projects. I see them both learning to take responsibility for themselves, a major step in their maturing. The school sees any behavior issues as an opportunity for even further learning. Parents are encouraged to be VERY involved, with a lot of personal feedback from teachers and requests for our input. I wish I had gone to a school like this when young!
--Submitted by a parent

Sending my children to the New School has been one of the best parenting decisions I have made. This is my daughter's 9th and final year, and my son's 5th year. The individual attention to all aspects of a child's development are addressed... academic, social, communication. They are encouraged to follow their interests. Their natural love of learning has been encouraged, and not squashed like it would have been in a traditional school setting. Since my daughter is now in her final year, and has never been to school anywhere else, I can really see the amazing person the New School has helped her to become.
--Submitted by a parent

My son has been at the New School for 2 years and I could not be happier. I love the progressive approach where every element of the day-- including recess and lunch-- is incorporated into the learning process. Kids are encouraged to follow their curiosity, their passions; and their natural sense of wonder is not crushed under a mountain of homework and tests. My son is upset when he can't go to school during the weekend! We really struggled before deciding in favor of the New School over our highly-rated public school. I have to say, going this route is one of the best decisions we've made for our son's development. When I see him off in the morning, I know he's going to use his imagination and logic to solve math problems, not plug in memorized formulas he can't relate to. I highly recommend attending one of their open houses or graduate nights. Don't be put off by the unconventional setting of a little red house. Talk with Dr. Chilvers and speak with the kids there. You will meet one of the most articulate, confident groups of children you'll find anywhere. And, know that the vast majority of the graduates go on to accelerated programs in high school!
--Submitted by a parent