Emerson Jr Sr High School

Stay Far Far Away from this school. There is major favoritism that goes on here. The kids who are doing better academically are treated differently, and their mishaps are overlooked by the teachers and the administration. The families that contribute to the school receive special treatment. The administration is approachable but does not do enough to address the issues that are brought to them. This was also the case with the previous administration. No, Saint Joseph School is not one big happy family, so do not believe the reviews. Instead, listen to what the parents are saying amongst themselves about the teachers and the administration. Most state that some upper school faculty along with the administration is in need of a change. This is the reason why a lot of the kids do not come back after fifth grade. Some teachers do not care much about the children, they only want things done their way. Demerits and Detentions are continuously used to intimidate the kids and they are handed out very often.

Both of my kids started and graduated from Roberge. One was in an IEP and they went above and beyond to help him develop and boost his confidence. They both were very prepared for middle school.

I would strongly caution parents of children with special needs. Despite clear needs, there has been little meaningful progress. Core goals like communication and responding to name remain inconsistent months into the program, yet reporting suggests progress without clear data.Special education leadership lacks transparency and accountability. Requests for information are often delayed or deflected, and there is a clear gap between what’s written in the IEP and what is actually implemented.The calendar and daily schedule are also difficult for working families. Frequent half days, limited hours, and early pickup times are out of sync with surrounding districts and create unnecessary strain.In my experience, the district also lacks diversity across students, staff, and leadership, which is noticeable.If your child needs structured, intensive support, this district is not equipped to provide it. I would not recommend moving here unless you plan to pursue private school options.

It's a relatively small school in a great suburban town which gives a great experience to students, many of whom are able to walk to school and are known by name by school staff.

As a faculty member at St. Joseph School in Oradell, I feel compelled to share how truly impressed I am with the leadership and overall environment of the school. Dr. Valenti is an exceptional leader who manages staff, students, families, athletics, faith formation, and after-school clubs with remarkable skill and dedication. She is truly a force of nature who somehow gets it all done and does it well.Dr. Valenti treats everyone equally and with respect. In my time here, I have never witnessed a child being disciplined in the manner described in a previous post. On the contrary, students are treated with care, fairness, and dignity.It is important to note that there was a temporary principal between 2022–2024, and during that time the school unfortunately struggled. Dr. Valenti came out of retirement and quite literally saved the school. Since her return, the culture, structure, and academic excellence have been fully restored.The education at St. Joseph School is like no other. The teachers are dedicated, compassionate, and highly effective, and the students are kind, respectful, and supportive of one another. It is a wonderful place to teach, learn, and grow.