Magnet System

Read more information on each of our schools.

There are 11 schools in the Montclair Public School System: seven elementary schools, three middle schools and one comprehensive high school.

In Montclair, children do not necessarily attend the school closest to their homes. The Board of Education has developed specialized programs in each of the schools and believes children are best served by a program that most closely supports their individual learning styles. Although the basic curriculum is the same, each school offers special programs consistent with its own magnet theme.

It is important to understand that learning styles are not related to intelligence. Many able learners work most productively within a well-ordered schedule. Others do well with greater direction from the teachers. Educational research suggests children learn best when they have a peaked interest in their learning. A different specialized program has been established at each school. All schools follow the same basic curriculum, but each offers a different structure or special activities related to its own special theme.

All of our schools are outstanding. There is no one school, nor one organization, that is best for all children. Rather, it is a matter of what program is best for the child. The decision is made with input from the parents with the assistance of the Montclair Public Schools staff.

As a public school, we are required to incorporate the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Mathematics and the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards in all other content areas as established by the New Jersey Department of Education. In addition to the state required academic areas, students have access to computer technology at all 11 schools. At the middle and high school levels, students have the option of enrolling in a variety of elective courses in addition to those indicated above. Additionally, at the high school level, students can participate in small learning communities or traditional high school programs.

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The district provides families with a rich variety of learning environments for their children through its magnet system. Some schools, for instance, emphasize arts and science; others feature science and technology or visual and performing arts.

Montclair children do not necessarily attend the school closest to their homes. There are no "neighborhood" schools. Provided there is space available and that a balance of children from various economic zones is maintained, the magnet schools provide wide flexibility of educational choice, and ensure that the entire township is the "neighborhood."

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