Established in 1954, the Forum School is a private, non-profit, non-sectarian day program for developmentally atypical children ages 3 through 16 years. We offer a therapeutic educational environment for children from Northern New Jersey, Rockland County, and New York City whose educational needs cannot be met in their local district. Psycho-educational and behavioral techniques are utilized along with a structured, stimulating curriculum appropriate to each student’s level. Classes are small and ungraded. The staff to student ratio of each class is based upon the age and ability levels of the students. The Forum School is in session from September to June and has an optional state-approved summer day program in July. Sleepaway programs are also offered.
Philosophy
The Forum School is founded upon a respect for each child with the understanding that development occurs at the child’s individual pace. This humanistic philosophy is based on a belief in the dignity, worth, and capacity for self-realization of every individual.
Our Population
Our Students
The program admits children without regard to race, religion, nationality or handicap who exhibit the following characteristics: autism spectrum disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, developmental disabilities, schizophrenia, delayed and/or inappropriate speech and language, perceptual difficulties not related to specific sensory deficits, delayed motor development, inappropriate affect, and difficulties with social relatedness.
You can view our policy on Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying here….Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying
Our Staff
In addition to the Director and supervisory personnel, all staff members are certified and/or state approved skilled professionals from the fields of education, social work, psychology, psychiatry, nursing, speech, music, art, adaptive physical education, and swim and water safety instruction. Teachers are certified in special education by the New Jersey Department of Education.
Classroom assistants are trained and supervised.
A Board of Trustees composed of concerned individuals from the business and professional community oversees the policies and operations of the school.
Lunch Program
Every day the students enjoy a free, hot, nutritionally balanced lunch cooked by our chef. Lunch is an important time to work on social skills, practice manners, and try new healthy foods.
You can view our current lunch menu online, which is updated regularly.
