This article is sponsored by Montclair Kimberley Academy.
New Jersey is home to some of the best schools in the country, known for diversity and academic excellence. Montclair Kimberley Academy is one of the largest co-educational independent day schools in New Jersey, founded on a commitment to providing every student with opportunities to build character and develop their intellectual potential. Keep reading to learn more about the school and the upcoming information sessions for prospective students.
A Commitment to Diversity, Equity + Inclusion
Guided by the motto, “Knowledge, Vision, Integrity”, the school encourages active participation in the arts, athletics, and community engagement to enhance the growth fostered by a challenging academic curriculum.
The school consists of three age-appropriate campuses for Pre-K through 12th grade. Primary School includes Pre-K through 3rd grade, Middle School consists of 4th grade to 8th grade, and Upper School is for students 9th grade to 12th grade. A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and faculty professional development are hallmarks seen across each of the three campuses.
“At MKA, we believe the school search can and should be an exciting adventure. Our goal is to help you find an environment that will inspire you and your child,” said Alyson Waldman, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid. “Is MKA that place? We encourage you to explore and ask questions, just as our inquisitive students do.”
Upcoming Information Sessions This Fall
This fall, Montclair Kimberley Academy is hosting several in-person and virtual information sessions for prospective families. These sessions, on each of the three campuses, will provide an opportunity for families to learn more about the school as a whole, the programs offered, and the community created at each campus. Each information session will include presentations from the new Head of School, Nigel Furlonge, and the chance to hear from current parents and faculty.
Upcoming in-person admissions events will have limited space due to COVID-19 health and safety guidelines. School administration encourages families to register for the event they would like to attend. If an event you would like to register for has reached capacity, the Admissions Team will happily place you on a waiting list. You can contact them via email at [email protected]. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER AND LEARN MORE.
Primary School Information Sessions
In-person event held at 224 Orange Road in Montclair
Saturday, November 20th at 10AM
Virtual Session
Thursday, December 2nd at 7PM
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL INFORMATION SESSIONS
Middle School Information Sessions
In person event held at 201 Valley Road in Montclair
Saturday, October 30th at 10AM
Virtual Session
Tuesday, December 7th at 7PM
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL INFORMATION SESSIONS
Upper School Information Sessions
In-person event held at 6 Lloyd Road in Montclair
Saturday, November 13th at 1PM
Virtual Session
Thursday, December 9th at 7PM
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR UPPER SCHOOL INFORMATION SESSIONS
Tri-Campus Virtual Information Sessions
Fine & Performing Arts Information Session
Virtual Session held on Wednesday, November 10th at 7PM
Hear about MKA’s Fine & Performing Arts program from faculty members and students. Attendees will also have an opportunity to participate in a Q&A session. Participants can register via Middle or Upper School Forms.
Athletics Information Session
Virtual session held on Tuesday, November 16th at 7PM
Learn more about the athletics program from the Director of Athletics and MKA Alumni Athletes. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet in small groups with MKA coaches. Participants can register via Middle or Upper School Forms.
CLICK HERE to register for upcoming information sessions at Montclair Kimberley Academy or you can call 973-746-9800 with questions. The three campuses are located in Montclair at 224 Orange Road (Primary School), 201 Valley Road (Middle School), and 6 Lloyd Road (Upper School).
Autism Acceptance Month: Resources for Parents
April is Autism Acceptance Month and is a time to educate ourselves and raise awareness about a disability that affects many children and adults worldwide. Also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), this disability appears in many different forms and varying levels of severity from person to person. Here in the Essex County area, there are a variety of resources for parents of children with autism. Read on to learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder and how you can support those living with the disorder.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that impacts the nervous system and impairs the ability of children and adults to communicate and interact with others. Although there is no known cure for this condition, treatments such as behavioral therapies, family therapy, and applied behavior analysis (ABA) are helpful in reducing symptoms and supporting development + learning. A child or adult living with autism may experience symptoms that include difficulty communicating and interacting with others, obsessive tendencies, or repetitive behaviors. These symptoms also appear in a variety of forms and severities from one person to the next.
Read More: Organizations + Non-Profits to Give Back to in Montclair
How You Can Support Autism Organizations from Afar
It is simple enough to support autism organizations from afar by donating to a variety of different charities. This list of well-known organizations is a good place to start:
Autism NJ, a nonprofit organization, is "committed to ensuring safe and fulfilling lives for individuals with autism, their families, and the professionals who support them," according to its website. The agency provides clinical expertise, information on public policy, awareness resources, and more. Austim NJ also hosts various events throughout the year. See the calendar here. Those looking to donate, see here.
The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) emphasizes ensuring that adults with autism reach their potential by providing scholarships to colleges, programs + resources for self-advocates, and a portal for employers interested in hiring adults with autism.
The Autism Society of America has chapters across the country that provide person-to-person support and advocacy, as well as an online database of information and recommendations for parents and caregivers.
Whole Spectrum Autism, a Jersey City-based non-profit, raises autism acceptance by hosting family-friendly, inclusive events throughout the year because "autism isn’t just one day or one month — it is everyday living for so many of us." Advocacy and education are the core of their work, with the mission to build inclusive communities. FYI: Whole Spectrum is hosting its annual Autism Acceptance Gala on June 20th, 2025, at Liberty House in Jersey City — more information can be found here.
AANE is geared toward families and provides a blend of virtual and in-person services to support adults with autism as well as their family members.
The Autism Science Foundation supports autism by funding scientists and organizations that conduct research.
The Art of Autism focuses on spotlighting talents in the visual arts of children and adults with autism.
If you care to do something more hands-on to support these organizations, consider volunteering for events such as fundraising walks in your neighborhood. Many community centers (such as the YMCA) or smaller local organizations are also looking for mentors or ‘buddies’ to participate in events and activities with children or adults with autism.
Resources to Support Autism Spectrum Disorder at Home
When a lack of structure or routine occurs, children and adults with autism tend to experience behavioral challenges. For parents and caregivers who are looking for effective resources to use at home with a child or adult living with autism, consider these online behavioral resources:
Autism Parenting Magazine is an award-winning publication aimed at improving the quality of life for families affected by autism. Established in 2012, the magazine publishes autism-related topics, events, developments, treatments, and news stories, as well as a variety of inspiring real-life success stories.
Supporting Your Autism Journey + Autistics on Autism
Supporting Your Autism Journey and Autistics on Autism are written by Hoboken resident Dr. Kerry Magro — a professional speaker, best-selling author, and autism entertainment consultant who is on the autism spectrum. You can read more about Kerry here.
See More: First-Ever Foodie Fest for Autism Awareness Happening in Hoboken on 4/5
Apps to Use With Your Child at Home:
Touch and Learn - Emotions is a paid app that assists children in identifying emotions and recognizing body language.
Skill Champ is an iPad app that provides children with practice in foundational skills such as letter matching, identifying emotions, and more.
ChoiceWorks Calendar is another paid app that provides visually appealing options to create a schedule and alleviate transition anxiety.
