Top School Districts in NJ for Families: Where to Find Great Schools Across the State

New Jersey is a state that takes education seriously, consistently ranking among the top in the nation for its public and private schools. For families, choosing the right school district can make all the difference—not just in academics, but in community life, extracurricular opportunities, and even home values. Whether you’re new to the Garden State or just looking for the best fit for your child, here’s a guide to some of the top school options across New Jersey.

Public Schools

New Jersey’s public schools are renowned for their academic excellence, diverse programs, and strong community support. Here’s a look at standout districts and schools by grade level:

• Elementary Schools: Districts like Millburn Township, Princeton Public Schools, and Westfield Public Schools are celebrated for nurturing learning environments and high test scores. Schools such as Deerfield Elementary (Millburn) and Littlebrook Elementary (Princeton) often top state rankings.
• Middle Schools: Montgomery Township and Summit Public Schools offer exceptional middle school programs, with robust extracurriculars and advanced coursework. Lawton C. Johnson Summit Middle School is a standout for its supportive staff and academic rigor.
• High Schools: Tenafly High School, Millburn High School, and Princeton High School are consistently ranked among the best in the state—and the nation—thanks to their challenging academics, arts, and athletics.

Private Schools

For families seeking private education, New Jersey offers a range of options from faith-based academies to prestigious prep schools. Here are some top picks by grade level:

• Elementary Schools: Far Hills Country Day School (Far Hills) and Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart (Princeton) are known for innovative teaching and small class sizes.
• Middle Schools: Morristown-Beard School (Morristown) and Pingry School (Basking Ridge) provide a supportive environment, leadership opportunities, and a strong sense of community.
• High Schools: Delbarton School (Morristown), Pingry School, and Princeton Day School (Princeton) offer rigorous academics, college prep, and extracurriculars that rival the best in the country.

How to Find Great Schools in NJ

Finding the perfect school is about more than rankings. Consider these tips:

• Visit the schools and talk to current parents and students.
• Check resources like GreatSchools.org and the Niche Best School Districts rankings.
• Look into extracurricular offerings, special programs, and support services.
• Consider commute, community vibe, and how the school fits your child’s needs and interests.

Remember, the right school is the one where your child will thrive, learn, and feel supported. Happy school hunting!