In 1973, the citizens of NJ voted in favor of a Bond Issue to provide needed school facilities for severely handicapped children. The NJ State Legislature authorized the construction of a number of Regional Day Schools, one of which was this one in Newark. It was completed during the summer of 1983. The Newark School District was selected by the State Department of Education to administer the school for students classified as Multiply Handicapped.

The school was opened in September 1983 and presently serves approximately 123 students between ages 5 and 21. New Jersey Regional Day School at Newark provides a comprehensive educational and life skills program. Our outcome-based curriculum is geared toward preparing our eclectic population to emerge as independent as possible in their future work and community life. We have developed a transition from school to work and adult life program which will lead to the eventual goal of self-determination for our students. We incorporate the parents, staff, and community to foster each student’s potential growth.

Mission Statement

The mission of NJRDS is to provide individualized evidence-based education to students with multiple disabilities. We promote an outcome-based mastery with an emphasis on educational life and communication to ensure post-secondary success.

Vision Statement

We have the resources and knowledge to nurture each student’s potential social, emotional, and academic growth. We are excited about the realm of possibilities that can be reached and the horizons yet to come.