St Joseph School

You could do just about anything and get away with it. Cafeteria was promised a panini press and salad bar but was denied after covid. No discipline unless dress code related. Principal doesn’t know how to lead students or handle conflict.

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.

As a faculty member and minority 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.

We have three kids in the school (1st, 4th and 6th) and I'm constantly overwhelmed by the pride I have watching my kids learn, develop into mensch-like students and people, and appreciate their place in the overall world. SSDS Bergen is developing the Jewish leaders of tomorrow, and is doing it in the most fun way possible. It's amazing - my kids have never woken up complaining about school - for them, it's their 2nd home.