Welcome to Berkley School

 As you enter Berkley School, you will be surrounded by the sounds and sights of a school that is truly child-centered.  Classrooms reflect the excitement and vitality of both the students and their teachers as they prepare for each school year.   Our children benefit from a school community that is united in its vision to work in the best interests of its students.  Successful learning is achieved through the commitment of outstanding teachers who are dedicated to creating positive, nurturing, and academically challenging experiences for children. Parental support is fundamental and considered an integral part of a child’s learning experience.

The New Jersey Student Learning Standards drive curriculum and instruction as teachers prepare students to meet the rigorous demands of the 21^st Century.  Our comprehensive curriculum encourages integrated lessons and a discovery-based methodology.  Students are immersed in the Teacher’s College Reading and Writing Workshop model to support students as they develop their skills as readers and writers.  The Everyday Math program is a high interest, hands-on, inquiry based approach that encourages students to apply learned concepts to real life situations. 

Special subject teachers provide instruction in Art, Music, Physical Education, World Language and Technology/Library.  Special area instruction is available for students in TIPS (Targeted Interventions & Planned Support), Speech, English Language Learning, REACH (Gifted and Talented), and Resource Center for students with special needs.  The School Counselor is available to support student’s social and emotional needs.  Our nurse is on hand to support the health needs of all our students.

Our Media Center provides opportunities for our students to use technology as an extension into all areas of the curriculum.  Students and teachers have access to online services for research, formal lessons, and to collect information for classroom projects.  Smart Boards and mobile laptop carts allow teachers to facilitate interactive lessons to enhance instruction and learning. 

The staff at Berkley School fosters a caring, positive learning environment.  The characteristics of good citizenship are promoted and encouraged daily. Through our monthly Good Citizen program, students are recognized for their efforts to display qualities that show a respect for self and others. 

Our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is an active, dedicated group.  Through fundraising efforts, they are able to sponsor a variety of programs and assemblies, an author visit, book fairs, field trips, and many other events designed to enhance academic and cultural programs in our school. 

I am pleased to welcome you to Berkley School, and look forward to an exciting school year.

Tim Coughlin

Principal