The Center School

The Center School has served students with learning disabilities for more than 50 years. Most of the school’s 100 students in grades 3-12 are on the autism spectrum, and there’s a transition program for high school graduates up to age 21 who may not be ready to pursue college, a vocational school or enter the workforce.

“This year the school is improving upon a robust life skills curriculum to help students develop their skills in tasks ranging from money management to grocery shopping. These skills are essential no matter what our students decide to do in life,” says Executive Director Dr. Ronald Rinaldi. “We help students work through their challenges and prepare them not only to go back to their original school district, but to succeed as adults in the real world.”

From physical and occupational therapy, counseling and behaviorists, and reading and speech/language therapists, The Center School has everything that a student with special needs requires to be successful. Along with an academic curriculum that mirrors that of mainstream schools, students have access to electives like music, art, and woodshop as well as after-school clubs and athletics like soccer and basketball. There are also trips, concerts, plays and more, as well as an e-sports gaming program where students can compete against other schools.

“Many parents don’t realize schools like ours exist—their child may be taking advantage of interventions or special education programs at their district school, but still not have the support they need to thrive,” Rinaldi says. “We implement additional services for these students and support parents as they advocate for what their child needs to be successful.”

2 Riverview Dr., Somerset
908-253-3870
thecenterschool.com