Cooperative Nursery School of Ridgewood

Friends Neighborhood Nature School is a nonprofit nursery school on Highwood Avenue in Ridgewood, sponsored by the Ridgewood Quaker Meeting and a member of the Friends Council on Education. We teach children ages 2½ through 5 together in one mixed-age program, guided by the Quaker testimonies of integrity, peace, equality, simplicity, stewardship and community. Learning here is hands-on and often muddy. Our simple schoolhouse and an outdoor classroom put nature at the center of the day, and we keep a 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Older preschoolers can spend a transitional kindergarten year with us, taking on deeper inquiry projects and leadership roles. The program runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and follows the Ridgewood Schools calendar, with half-day and alternate-day schedules (Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Tuesday, Thursday) available. Faculty belong to ANBE, the nature-based education association. Each summer we run eight one-week camp sessions for 3 to 6 year olds, with gardening, water play, puppetry and STEM. Tiny Friends classes welcome caregivers with their toddlers.

Holmstead School has been a pillar of support for students facing challenges in traditional educational settings for over 50 years. Located in Ridgewood, New Jersey, this state-approved, non-profit private school caters to students in grades 8-12 who often grapple with learning disabilities, psychological issues, and social or emotional difficulties. The school's core mission is to create an inclusive environment where these students can thrive academically and socially, ultimately aiming for their successful reintegration into mainstream education when appropriate. Holmstead School employs a customized curriculum that blends academic instruction with therapeutic and recreational components tailored to each student's unique needs. This holistic approach ensures that students not only receive the educational support they require but also the emotional and psychological assistance necessary for their overall development. The school fosters a nurturing atmosphere where students feel accepted and socially connected, which is crucial for their growth and self-esteem. What sets Holmstead School apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention that many students find transformative. Additionally, strong partnerships with families are emphasized, creating a collaborative support system that enhances student success. The school also hosts engaging community events and programs like the ABRACABULLY anti-bullying initiative, which promotes respect and empathy among students. Graduates of Holmstead are well-prepared for various post-secondary paths, including trade schools and colleges, reflecting the school's dedication to equipping its students with the skills needed for their future endeavors.

Immersion Montessori School (IMS) is dedicated to providing an inclusive and nurturing educational environment for children ages 0 to 12, particularly those with diverse learning needs. The school's core mission revolves around fostering independence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning through the Montessori methodology. This child-centered approach encourages students to engage deeply with their interests while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a structured yet flexible setting. IMS offers specialized programs that integrate language immersion with cultural exploration, allowing students to enhance their linguistic abilities while cultivating empathy and respect for diversity through meaningful interactions and culturally immersive activities. The school is further distinguished by its commitment to integrating advanced educational research into early childhood programs, ensuring that teaching methods are informed by the latest pedagogical advancements. With a strong emphasis on family partnerships and a vibrant international community, IMS not only promotes academic excellence but also empowers students to become compassionate global citizens ready to navigate an interconnected world. The low student-teacher ratio enhances personalized learning experiences, making IMS a unique choice for families seeking a holistic educational approach that values diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.