NJ Living

Tag: Schools

  • Top NJ Towns for Families: Tenafly, Cresskill & More

    Top NJ Towns for Families: Tenafly, Cresskill & More

    Choosing the right place to raise a family is a monumental decision, often driven by a desire for excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community. For many families in New Jersey, the cluster of towns including Tenafly, Cresskill, Closter, and Demarest consistently rises to the top of their list. These Bergen County communities, nestled just outside of New York City, offer a unique blend of suburban tranquility and access to urban amenities. However, it’s the exceptional school districts that serve as a major draw, shaping the lives of countless children and solidifying these towns as highly sought-after destinations for families. This blog post will delve into the specific qualities that make these school districts stand out and why they are a primary reason families choose to call Tenafly, Cresskill, Closter, and Demarest home.

    A Foundation of Academic Excellence: The Tenafly Public School District

    Tenafly’s reputation for academic rigor is well-established. The Tenafly Public School District, encompassing five elementary schools (Maugham, Mackay, Stillman, Smith, and Demarest), Tenafly Middle School, and Tenafly High School, consistently ranks among the top in New Jersey. Source: Niche.com. This performance is not accidental; it is the result of a concerted effort from dedicated educators, a supportive community, and a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire.

    • High Student Achievement: Tenafly students consistently achieve high scores on standardized tests, exceeding state and national averages. This proficiency is a testament to the district’s commitment to providing a robust academic foundation. The district emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.
    • Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors Programs: Tenafly High School offers a wide array of AP courses across various disciplines, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school. This program, coupled with rigorous honors courses, provides an accelerated academic path for high-achieving students.
    • Dedicated and Experienced Faculty: The district’s success is largely due to the dedication and expertise of its teachers. Many educators hold advanced degrees and participate in ongoing professional development, ensuring they are equipped with the latest teaching methodologies and best practices. The emphasis on teacher growth and support contributes to the high quality of instruction.
    • Emphasis on STEM: Tenafly has a strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, recognizing the importance of these fields in the 21st century. The district provides opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning, participate in science competitions, and explore their interests in these critical areas.
    • Extracurricular Opportunities: Beyond academics, Tenafly offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, and arts programs. These opportunities allow students to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and build a well-rounded profile.

    Cresskill: A Close-Knit Community with a Focus on Education

    The Cresskill Public School District, serving the town of Cresskill, is known for its smaller class sizes and close-knit community atmosphere. Source: GreatSchools.org. This intimate setting allows teachers to provide personalized attention to students, fostering a supportive and nurturing learning environment. The district includes three schools: Edward H. Bryan Elementary School, Merritt Memorial Elementary School, and Cresskill Junior/Senior High School.

    • Personalized Attention: The smaller student-to-teacher ratio in Cresskill enables educators to understand each student’s individual needs and learning styles. This personalized approach fosters a strong connection between students and teachers, leading to increased engagement and academic success.
    • Strong Parent Involvement: Cresskill is characterized by a high level of parent involvement in the schools. Parents actively participate in school events, volunteer their time, and collaborate with teachers to support their children’s education. This strong sense of partnership between parents and schools creates a cohesive and supportive learning environment.
    • Focus on Character Development: Beyond academics, Cresskill emphasizes character development and social-emotional learning. The district aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals who are not only academically successful but also responsible, empathetic, and contributing members of society.
    • Emphasis on the Arts: Cresskill also places a strong emphasis on the arts, offering programs in music, drama, and visual arts. Students have numerous opportunities to explore their creative talents and participate in performances and exhibitions.
    • Commitment to Innovation: Cresskill is committed to integrating innovative teaching methods and technologies into the classroom. The district embraces new approaches to learning that enhance student engagement and prepare them for the future.

    Closter: A Blend of Tradition and Progress

    The Northern Valley Regional High School District serves Closter, with students attending Northern Valley Regional High School at Demarest, and the Closter Public School District feeding into the high school. Source: NJ School Performance Reports. Closter is known for its combination of traditional values and a progressive approach to education. This blend creates a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century. The Closter district includes Hillside Elementary School and Tenakill Middle School.

    • Rigorous Curriculum: Closter offers a rigorous curriculum that challenges students at all levels. The district is committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in college and beyond.
    • Focus on Global Citizenship: Closter emphasizes the importance of global citizenship, encouraging students to develop an understanding of different cultures and perspectives. The district provides opportunities for students to engage in international programs and learn about global issues.
    • Strong Community Support: Closter benefits from strong community support for its schools. Residents actively participate in school events and fundraising initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to education.
    • Emphasis on Technology: The district integrates technology into the curriculum, providing students with the skills they need to succeed in a digital world. Students have access to computers, tablets, and other technology tools that enhance their learning experience.
    • Preparation for College: Closter prioritizes college preparation, providing students with the resources and support they need to succeed in the college application process. The district offers guidance counseling services, college fairs, and test preparation programs.

    Demarest: A Nurturing Environment with a Focus on Individual Growth

    The Demarest Public School District, like Closter, feeds into the Northern Valley Regional High School District at Demarest, and includes Country School and Demarest Middle School. Source: US News & World Report. The district is known for its nurturing environment and focus on individual student growth. The district prioritizes the development of well-rounded individuals who are not only academically successful but also socially and emotionally intelligent.

    • Individualized Learning: Demarest emphasizes individualized learning, recognizing that each student learns at their own pace and in their own way. The district provides differentiated instruction to meet the unique needs of all students.
    • Focus on Social-Emotional Learning: Demarest prioritizes social-emotional learning, recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills. The district provides programs that help students develop empathy, resilience, and self-awareness.
    • Strong School-Community Partnership: Demarest benefits from a strong partnership between schools and the community. Residents actively support the schools through volunteerism, fundraising, and participation in school events.
    • Emphasis on Innovation: Demarest embraces innovative teaching practices and technologies, providing students with a cutting-edge education. The district is committed to preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.
    • Supportive Atmosphere: Demarest fosters a supportive and inclusive school environment where students feel valued and respected. The district’s emphasis on creating a positive school culture contributes to the overall well-being of its students.

    Beyond Academics: The Allure of the Community

    While the exceptional school districts are a primary driver for families choosing these towns, the appeal goes beyond academics. Tenafly, Cresskill, Closter, and Demarest offer a quality of life that is highly desirable for families.

    • Safe and Family-Friendly Neighborhoods: These towns are known for their safe and family-friendly neighborhoods, with tree-lined streets, well-maintained parks, and a strong sense of community.
    • Proximity to New York City: The convenient proximity to New York City provides residents with access to world-class cultural attractions, employment opportunities, and entertainment venues, while still maintaining a suburban lifestyle.
    • Small-Town Charm: Despite their proximity to the city, these towns retain a small-town charm, with local shops, restaurants, and community events that foster a sense of belonging.
    • Outdoor Recreation: The area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and access to parks and nature preserves.
    • Diverse and Engaging Community: These towns are known for their diverse and engaging communities, where people from all walks of life come together to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

    Conclusion: Investing in the Future

    The decision to move to Tenafly, Cresskill, Closter, or Demarest is often a long-term investment in a family’s future. The exceptional school districts are a major draw, providing children with a strong academic foundation and preparing them for success in college and beyond. However, it’s the combination of excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to urban amenities that makes these towns so appealing to families. The commitment to education, the nurturing environments, and the vibrant communities create an ideal setting for raising children and fostering their growth into well-rounded, successful adults. For families seeking a place where their children can thrive, Tenafly, Cresskill, Closter, and Demarest offer a compelling and rewarding choice. The investment in a home in these communities is, ultimately, an investment in the future success and happiness of the family.

  • Understanding Property Taxes in New Jersey: A Comprehensive Guide

    Property taxes in New Jersey are a significant factor for homeowners and prospective buyers. Known for being among the highest in the nation, understanding how they work is crucial. This comprehensive guide breaks down the complexities of NJ property taxes, explaining how they’re calculated, what they fund, and what resources are available to homeowners.

    Why are NJ Property Taxes so High?

    Several factors contribute to New Jersey’s high property taxes:

    • Reliance on Property Taxes for Funding: Unlike some states that rely more heavily on income or sales taxes, New Jersey municipalities heavily depend on property taxes to fund local services.
    • Funding for Public Education: A significant portion of property taxes goes towards funding public education, which is highly regarded in New Jersey.
    • Municipal Services and Infrastructure: Property taxes also support essential municipal services like police and fire departments, road maintenance, sanitation, and parks and recreation.
    • County Taxes: In addition to municipal taxes, property owners also pay county taxes, which fund county-level services.

    How are NJ Property Taxes Calculated?

    The property tax calculation involves several key components:

    1. Assessed Value: The local tax assessor determines the assessed value of your property, which is ideally supposed to reflect its fair market value. However, assessed values are not always updated annually and sometimes lag behind market fluctuations.
    2. Tax Rate (or Tax Levy): Each municipality, county, and school district sets a tax rate or tax levy. The tax levy is the total amount of money the taxing entity needs to raise through property taxes. The tax rate is then calculated based on the total assessed value of all properties in the taxing district.
    3. Equalization Ratio: Because assessed values can vary between municipalities within a county, the state calculates an equalization ratio. This ratio is used to ensure that property taxes are distributed fairly across the county.

    The basic formula for calculating property taxes is:

    (Assessed Value x Equalization Ratio) x (Municipal Tax Rate + School Tax Rate + County Tax Rate) = Annual Property Taxes

    Example:

    Let’s say your home has an assessed value of $500,000, the equalization ratio is 1.0 (meaning the assessed value is at market value), the municipal tax rate is 1%, the school tax rate is 2%, and the county tax rate is 0.5%.

    ($500,000 x 1.0) x (0.01 + 0.02 + 0.005) = $17,500

    Your annual property tax would be $17,500.

    Understanding Tax Bills:

    Your property tax bill will typically show a breakdown of how your taxes are allocated:

    • Municipal Taxes: Fund local government services.
    • School Taxes: Fund local school districts.
    • County Taxes: Fund county-level services.
    • Fire District Taxes (if applicable): Fund local fire departments.

    How Property Taxes Fund Schools in NJ:

    A significant portion of your property taxes directly funds local public schools. This funding mechanism is a cornerstone of New Jersey’s education system. Here’s a breakdown:

    • Local School Budgets: Each school district develops an annual budget, which covers expenses such as teacher salaries, classroom supplies, building maintenance, transportation, and extracurricular activities.
    • Property Tax Contribution: Property taxes are the primary source of local funding for these budgets. The amount each property owner contributes is determined by their property’s assessed value and the local school tax rate.
    • State Aid: While property taxes are the primary local funding source, the state of New Jersey also provides state aid to school districts. This aid is intended to help equalize funding across districts and ensure that all students have access to a quality education, regardless of their local property values. However, the reliance on local property taxes still creates funding disparities between districts.
    • Budget Approval Process: School budgets are typically approved by local voters in annual school board elections. This gives residents a direct say in how their property tax dollars are spent on education.

    Property Tax Deductions and Exemptions in NJ:

    New Jersey offers several programs that can help reduce property tax burdens:

    • Homestead Benefit: This program provides a direct property tax credit to eligible homeowners.
      • Eligibility: Eligibility is primarily based on income. The income limits vary each year, so it’s essential to check the official NJ Division of Taxation website for the most up-to-date information. Generally, the benefit is available to homeowners who own and occupy their primary residence in New Jersey and meet certain income requirements.
      • Application: You can apply online through the NJ Division of Taxation website or by filing a paper application.
    • Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement Program): This program has two parts that are often confused.
      • Property Tax Reimbursement (Often called “Senior Freeze”): This program reimburses eligible senior citizens and disabled persons for increases in their property taxes. It does not freeze the tax amount itself. To be eligible, you must meet certain age, income, and residency requirements, and have paid property taxes on your home for at least three years.
      • Tax Freeze (Separate Program): Some municipalities have local tax freeze programs that actually freeze the amount of property taxes paid by eligible seniors. These are not state-wide programs, so you need to check with your local municipality to see if they offer one.
    • Veterans Deduction: This provides a deduction for eligible veterans and their surviving spouses.
    • 100% Disabled Veteran Exemption: This exempts qualified totally and permanently disabled veterans from paying property taxes on their principal residence.

    Recent Property Tax Reforms in NJ:

    New Jersey has implemented various property tax reforms in recent years, often focusing on shared services and spending caps. Some key examples include:

    • 2% Property Tax Levy Cap: This cap limits annual increases in municipal, county, and school district property tax levies to 2%, with certain exceptions. This is a significant measure aimed at controlling property tax growth.
    • Shared Services Initiatives: The state encourages municipalities and school districts to share services to reduce costs and improve efficiency. This can include sharing administrative functions, purchasing equipment jointly, or consolidating certain services.
    • School Funding Formula Changes: The state has made adjustments to its school funding formula to try to address funding disparities between districts. However, the reliance on local property taxes still remains a key factor.

    The impact of these reforms has been mixed. While the 2% cap has helped to slow the growth of property taxes, it also limits the ability of municipalities and school districts to raise revenue for essential services. Shared services initiatives have shown some success in reducing costs, but their implementation can be challenging.

    Appealing Your Property Tax Assessment:

    If you believe your property has been over-assessed, you have the right to appeal. The process typically involves:

    1. Gathering Evidence: Compile evidence to support your claim, such as comparable sales data.
    2. Filing an Appeal: File a formal appeal with your county tax board by the specified deadline (usually April 1st).
    3. Attending a Hearing (if necessary): You may be required to attend a hearing to present your case.

    Resources and Further Information:

    • For Buyers: Factor property taxes into your affordability calculations. Use online property tax calculators or consult with a real estate professional to estimate potential taxes.
    • For Sellers: Be prepared to discuss property taxes with potential buyers. Having accurate information about the tax assessment and any available exemptions or deductions can be beneficial.

    Understanding New Jersey’s property tax system is essential for anyone involved in the state’s real estate market. By understanding how taxes are calculated, what they fund, and what resources are available, homeowners can make informed decisions about their properties.