2023 Best School Districts in New Jersey

• Millburn, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 3.88 out of 5  33 reviews

Freshman: Excellent people, good education, met a ton of friends and bonded over extracurriculars! It was a great experience and I learned a ton at my school. The school encourages excellence academically and extracurricularly.... Read 33 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 8

• Students 4,697

• Demarest, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.33 out of 5  30 reviews

Alum: Demarest ‘21 alum. This school prepares you for any school you want to intend including the Ivy League, military academies, the best public schools, and others. Most common schools my classmates went to were Rutgers, NYU, and Northeastern (where I am now.) Students usually attend Princeton, Cornell, and Penn every year. The rest of the Ivy League has been populated well, too. A 98th percentile SAT or ACT does not set you apart here. Students must beware the stress and imbalance possible here. Arts and sports are vibrant and well attended. The theatre and music program are excellent.... Read 30 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 3

• Students 2,101

• Princeton, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.33 out of 5  15 reviews

Senior: I would rate my experience with Princeton Public Schools as very good because I have received a broad liberal arts education, I have been challenged, and I have been introduced to new subjects and experiences. The dedicated staff and faculty at Princeton Public Schools make it a lively environment, where students are enthusiastic to learn. In addition, the sports and arts programs are well-recognized. I have had the pleasure to participate in both sports and the arts at Princeton High School, and I have gotten much fulfillment and joy from both the Choral Music Department and the Varsity Fencing Team. One critique of the school is the overcrowding issue. Many students, including myself, sit on the floor for lunch because of the lack of seats available around the school. This is unsanitary, and I hope the school can change the schedule or build a larger cafeteria to accommodate the student body.... Read 15 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 6

• Students 3,740

• West Windsor, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 3.93 out of 5  67 reviews

Parent: Very highly rated academically but sometimes it's all about the numbers and ratings and not about the human beings. Admin circles the wagons when questions are asked about curriculum or teachers are criticized. Sports admin has been less than satisfactory and very belligerent. Student body is very diverse and there are many clubs and activities to get involved in. Just don't question anyone or anything!... Read 67 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 9,386

• Ridgewood, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.29 out of 5  34 reviews

Alum: I was a student in the Ridgewood Public School District from 2009-2022. This was a good environment to learn in because of the academic rigor especially in high school. I think that most teachers were caring and were willing to help each student. Most courses in high school properly prepared me for college courses. I felt safe in the district because the police and fire department were always notified and they would be there should an incident have occurred. The diversity is where the district struggled because a majority of students were either caucasian or asian.... Read 34 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 5,613

• Tenafly, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.09 out of 5  22 reviews

Works Here: A highly academic school district that values the effects of social and emotional activities as well as the truly academic. Classes are challenging and students are encouraged to participate in team events, competitions, and activities outside of the classroom that can further expand their knowledge by applying it to real-life situations.... Read 22 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 6

• Students 3,360

• Livingston, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.1 out of 5  62 reviews

Junior: Livingston High School gives many wonderful opportunities to their students. They hold college fairs, have various clubs, many sports, and other activities to get students involved. The academics are stellar as well. Livingston High School offers a plethora of class options with various levels of difficulty. The school makes sure that each student is able to stimulate their own interests while also completing their graduation requirements. The environment that the teachers and administration build is very friendly and welcoming. Students feel safe at school because they know that they always have someone to talk to. Livingston High School uses all of its resources to make sure that their students get a great education while also feeling comfortable in their surroundings.... Read 62 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 9

• Students 6,056

• Summit, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.34 out of 5  29 reviews

Alum: Summit High School is a tight knit community. Everyone knows each other because we all went to school together since 1st grade! All students are pretty friendly to each other, both in and out of school on the weekends, so bullying, at least in my day, was never really a thing. Most people made an effort to include others, except a few rude people. I wish the school was more diverse, that would have better prepared me for college and life!... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 9

• Students 3,906

• Montvale, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.06 out of 5  18 reviews

Senior: This school made me feel welcome from the first day! I’ve made so many friendships. I’ve had so many different and diverse learning opportunities. I’ve traveled with the chamber choir and performed abroad. I’ve become a member of two national honor societies. I feel everything I’ve accomplished in the past four years has shaped my future. I will be terribly sad to leave but I know they prepared me to fly.... Read 18 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 1,929

• Mt Lakes, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.06 out of 5  16 reviews

Parent: We have 4 kids in mountain lakes schools (2 in the elementary and 2 in the middle school). We feel that the education and other activities (clubs, music, theater, etc…) are excellent and the environment is safe and optimal for kids to thrive. We have nothing but positive feedbacks for the teachers and schools system.... Read 16 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 1,348

• Moorestown, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.27 out of 5  26 reviews

Niche User: I moved to Moorestown in 1998 with my two young children, ages 7 & 5 in tow. We came from a small town in central New Jersey and I thought they were doing fine in school. The first year in elementary school was a bit difficult. They both had some catching up to do but all the teachers were all fantastic. My children loved the new school and all the teachers so it helped with the transition. The rest is history and they both went on to top universities and have successful careers today. My youngest is married and they own & operate two businesses.... Read 26 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 6

• Students 3,838

• North Brunswick, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.32 out of 5  69 reviews

Senior: South Brunswick HS offers so many different ways to get involved, which is how I made most of my friends. They offer so many clubs and sports teams to join. It can be a very competitive atmosphere at times, but joining these clubs and teams helped me find a group of people that I did not need to compare myself to. Besides, the competition just makes you better. There is a high standard for students but it is achievable with the help offered from teachers and other students. I enjoyed my time here!... Read 69 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 8,280

• Basking Ridge, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.21 out of 5  14 reviews

Parent: My son entered Bernards Township School District as an 8th grader after growing up in Japan attending Japanese schools. At Bedminster school he encountered engaging and supportive teachers. This positive experience impacted my son deeply. He was meant to `study abroad` in New Jersey for one year and then return to Japan, but on his own accord he wanted to stay in America. We decided to let him to live with his grandmother and continue his education at Bernards High School. I grew up in Basking Ridge and graduated from Ridge High, so I had full confidence in the School district knowing he would be well educated and prepared for college. He has grown and learned so much from his time at Bernards High School, not only as a student but as an athlete, a musician and a thoughtful member of society. We are so grateful that his teachers, coaches and staff have gone above and beyond to help him reach his goals.... Read 14 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 6

• Students 4,874

• North Caldwell, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.29 out of 5  34 reviews

Parent: Our child has been in the district now for 4 years. 3 years in the "sending schools", 1 year at WEMS, and starting 8th grade now. Last year during the pandemic the staff/ teachers all made it possible for our child to grow while sitting behind a computer. I know this is not easy on anyone, nor does wearing a mask 100% of the day exactly the best case scenario, but between outdoor "tailgates," clubs, committees, etc. they make it a great environment for these children. I thought we would have more complaints about the early morning start, but not here always happy to get to school. Not to mention all the great things to say about the teachers and how supportive they are. We are very fortunate, thanks, WEMS!... Read 34 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 1,657

• Haddonfield, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.57 out of 5  21 reviews

Senior: It’s a great school, everyone’s super nice especially most of the teachers, just not the best music program haha!... Read 21 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 5

• Students 2,656

• Holmdel, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 3.79 out of 5  14 reviews

Parent: The Holmdel School District provides the best all around educational opportunities in the State, which can be attributed to what is occurring in the school and outside. For instance, there is a heavy emphasis on academics by many within the community -- the instruction that occurs during the school day is supported by tutoring at home to make sure that their child can succeed. Parents also provide tremendous support for children who are interested in the arts and sports. The Holmdel community also passed a referendum to support investments in the school facilities. There cannot be many schools that are as good as Holmdel in the State, which is attributable to the community support of the District.... Read 14 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 2,889

• Westfield, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4 out of 5  49 reviews

Alum: Westfield has a rather abrasive academic environment. Those made of stone become polished, but not everyone is made of stone. The culture is competitive in almost every area, whether it be the arts or academics. Also, just as a product of those who live in the town, the culture is very white. The education system works hard to get students to learn about other cultures, but many kids are still very culture deaf when they leave. There were times where bullying was seen as something that is beneath Westfield but is really sort of swept under the rug. But I did learn a lot, the education is solid, the resources are there, and the teachers care. I’m sure others had different experiences.... Read 49 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 6,048

• New Providence, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.3 out of 5  20 reviews

Sophomore: New Providence is an excellent school district for the most part. Almost all of the teachers know how to keep their students engaged and really help to further their learning. They are available for extra help and are always happy to give it. The extracurriculars are also great. Students interested in music and athletics are allowed to play a sport AND participate in marching band. However, guidance at the school could be improved. Students are given little direction on what classes to choose to help pave a path for college. This causes many students to choose the wrong electives. In addition, students behind in courses such as math are not given an opportunity to move ahead. Their placement is determined by a sixth grade test. Other than that, I’ve had a great experience at NPHS... Read 20 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 2,383

• Mahwah, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.58 out of 5  12 reviews

Sophomore: Through this year of 2021 it has been a rough year. I believe that Mahwah has done a good job with the online curriculums, providing an extra help outlet after school for students that are in need of help. They use many programs To make us feel more comfortable, and some teachers have taught their curriculums very well. Although I do greatly appreciate this, one thing that I believe that they could’ve worked on even before is checking on the student mental health. This year has wrecked many students in several ways, and at the end of the day we all need as much support that we need. Having to be stuck in your house and repeating the same day over and over again can get very depressing. Some students consider school there outlet, getting away from family conflicts and issues from home. As I moved here from a nearby town, there was a noticeable difference for education regarding the way lessons were laid out and planned. Mahwah provided much for their students, and is a good district.... Read 12 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 6

• Students 2,805

• Oakland, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.2 out of 5  25 reviews

Senior: I loved Ramapo High School. I had a great time despite the pandemic. A lot of the social life at Ramapo is based around sports and attending sporting events. Football, soccer, basketball, and hockey are some of the most popular events. Ramapo also has great academics and you will be pushed in the classroom.... Read 25 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 2,244

• Chatham, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4 out of 5  7 reviews

Parent: Have 3 kids in the school system and couldn’t be happier with the education received. Kids are all flourishing and well prepared for higher education / life. Very happy with the approach used during covid and how rapidly the school responded to maintain an effective methodology to educate and keep everyone safe.... Read 7 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 6

• Students 3,930

• Edison, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.14 out of 5  129 reviews

Senior: Edison Township High School has incredible teachers filled with passion, helpful tendencies, talent, and intellect. Though classes seem to be harder than at most schools, they prepare you for college. In addition Edison High is greatly diverse. Despite these amazing benefits, going to school here has caused much stress as we do not follow a block schedule. Having every class every day is a lot of work as well as stress and pressure. Though I have learned to adjust to it now, I feel with a block schedule I could have succeeded even more in high school.... Read 129 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 19

• Students 16,632

• Martinsville, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.18 out of 5  89 reviews

Senior: Studying in Bridgewater Raritan high school is akin to studying at a local community college! It has a huge sprawling campus, with close to 3000 students and faculty strength of 280+. The school prepares students very well for college. It offers a wide selection of AP classes and extracurriculars which help students grow both academically and personally. The sky’s the limit for the student who is self initiated and inclined to make the most of it. The school also supports student led clubs and initiatives. I am grateful to have been provided the exposure to the plethora of AP classes, and opportunities to preside and run clubs to engage kids in STEM, charter national honor societies, as well as better communities through student involvement. On the downside, the facility needs a bit of a refresh. The labs and resources are outdated. Technology used in classrooms need to be revamped to provide students a better learning experience. Student to teacher ratio needs to improve.... Read 89 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 11

• Students 8,254

• River Edge, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.03 out of 5  29 reviews

Freshman: 1. A really good variety of classes for every interest! Anatomy, law, ceramics, painting etc. 2. Really nice and friendly teachers that work hard to do the best for you. No unreasonable grading. 3. Great mental health + college support system... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 1,604

• Glen Rock, NJ•

• School District

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  Rating 4.33 out of 5  9 reviews

Junior: Throughout middle school, I felt that I wasn’t that challenged and schoolwork was very manageable. However, high school proved to be much more challenging. I had to work hard to succeed and was met by peers who were equally academically driven. In my honors and AP classes, I was given a lot of work and high expectations that required a lot of effort. I would say the majority of my teachers were qualified, although some were not, either because they did not thoroughly know the material they were supposed to be teaching me or because I felt that they were unfair. I sometimes felt extremely overwhelmed with the coursework I had, and I know friends and peers who felt similar. Overall, my education at Glen Rock was effective and taught me life skills, but it also came with sacrifices and stress.... Read 9 reviews

• grade A

• Total schools 6

• Students 2,580