Lightbridge Academy

Apple Montessori Schools & Camps - Westfield is a newly built campus on South Avenue East serving children from 6 weeks to 6 years in infant, toddler and preschool/kindergarten classrooms. The building has spacious classrooms, a multipurpose room that doubles as an indoor gym, certified outdoor classrooms and a saltwater swimming pool. Apple Montessori Schools was founded in 1972 and is accredited by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. In our preschool and kindergarten rooms, the day splits into thirds: individual work with Montessori materials in math, science, language arts, history and geography; group enrichment in art, music and technology; and outdoor and gross-motor play. Our phonics-based reading program has most students reading by age 4, and the curriculum adds foreign language, yoga, character development and TinkRworks STEAM. Infants learn baby signs and enjoy tummy time and baby yoga, and toddlers build practical life skills like dressing and washing dishes. We are open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for families who need extended care. Parents can view live classroom video, and summer campers swim in our on-site pool with Red Cross certified instructors.

Christopher Academy stands as New Jersey's original Montessori school, dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of learning in children aged three to twelve. With a mission rooted in the Montessori philosophy, the school creates a peaceful and nurturing environment where each child's unique instincts and skills can flourish. The academy serves a diverse range of learners, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students, through carefully designed multi-age classrooms that promote social interaction and personal growth. The curriculum emphasizes practical life skills, sensorial experiences, mathematics, language development, and cultural awareness, all delivered by Montessori-certified teachers who guide children through individualized learning paths. Christopher Academy is fully accredited by both the American Montessori Society and the National Council for Private School Accreditation, ensuring adherence to high educational standards. What sets Christopher Academy apart is its commitment to low student-teacher ratios that foster meaningful connections and personalized attention for every child. The strong emphasis on parent-teacher collaboration and the active involvement of the Christopher Academy Parent Association (CAPA) further enriches the school community. This holistic approach not only supports academic success but also nurtures emotional and social development, making Christopher Academy a distinguished choice for families seeking an exceptional educational experience for their children.

The Union County Educational Services Commission (UCESC) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment for students with diverse needs, including those with autism spectrum disorders, multiple disabilities, emotional and behavioral challenges, and language-based learning disabilities. Serving students from various age groups, UCESC emphasizes a holistic approach to education that prioritizes student well-being, safety, and academic success. The commission's core mission revolves around creating a nurturing atmosphere where every learner can thrive, facilitated by strong community partnerships and a focus on mental health and support services. UCESC employs a range of specialized programs and therapeutic methodologies tailored to meet the unique needs of its students. These include transition services designed to prepare students for life beyond school, as well as alternative high school options for those requiring a different educational pathway. The commission also extends its services to students in hospital settings, ensuring continuity of education for those facing health challenges. What sets UCESC apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, which fosters personalized attention and meaningful connections between educators and students. Additionally, the organization prioritizes family partnerships, recognizing that collaboration with parents and guardians is essential for student success. With extensive transportation services available throughout Union County, UCESC ensures accessibility for all students, further enhancing its role as a vital resource in the community.