Best Special Needs Schools in Montclair, New Jersey (2026)

Sawtelle Learning Center is a dedicated educational institution focused on providing specialized support for children with diverse learning needs. The center's core mission is to empower students through tailored educational experiences, fostering both academic and personal growth. It primarily serves children with language-based learning disabilities, ensuring that each child receives the individualized attention necessary for their development. The center offers a range of key programs and services designed to address various learning challenges. These include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for behavioral support, Orton-Gillingham-based reading interventions for literacy development, and comprehensive speech and language therapy to enhance communication skills. Additionally, occupational therapy is available to assist with fine motor skills and daily living activities, while social skills groups provide essential opportunities for peer interaction and relationship building. The ESY Summer Program, running from July 7 to July 31, 2025, further enriches the learning experience by offering continued educational support during the summer months. What sets Sawtelle Learning Center apart is its commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized attention and tailored instruction for each child. The campus environment is designed to be nurturing and inclusive, equipped with specialized technology to support diverse learning styles. Furthermore, the center emphasizes community integration and vocational training, preparing students for successful transitions into adulthood.

The Deron School of New Jersey is a state-approved private school for students with multiple disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Down syndrome. Since 1967 we have provided a nurturing environment, family culture, and personalized curriculum to help students reach their greatest potential, with campuses in Montclair and Union. At our Montclair campus we serve older students from seventh grade through age 21, primarily from Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, and Union counties, whose needs cannot be met in their sending school district. Our state-renowned approach to educating students on the autism spectrum works to maximize academic skills, functional communication, and life skills. Our Community-Based Instruction and daily living skills curriculum begins at age five and culminates in our Bridge Transition Program, preparing students for life after age 21. We provide ABA, sensory integration, and PT, OT, speech-language therapy, and counseling, and we invite districts, child study teams, and families to see success in action through monthly open houses and tours.