CLIFFWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, one of three K-3 schools in the Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District, serves approximately 450 students.

THE PROGRAM: The academic curriculum at the Cliffwood School is aligned with New Jersey Core Content Curriculum Standards and includes reading/language arts, mathematics, social studies and science. Fine arts, vocal music, library studies, physical/health education, and computer education are an integral part of the curriculum. The language arts program is based on the balanced literacy approach in which reading, writing, and spelling are integrated. Literacy Groups and basic skills are also offered to those students who need extra assistance. Speech services and ESL classes are also offered. There are tutorial programs that provide additional assistance for those students that would like to participate. There is also a Pupil Assistance Committee that works with teachers to develop strategies for students who are experiencing difficulties. Special education services for classified students are offered on both an in-class support and pull-out basis.

CURRICULUM EXTENTIONS: Students participate in a variety of school and extra curricular activities, which encourage academic, social, and personal growth. The Environmental Club is responsible for maintaining the Cliffwood School Friendship Garden. The Friendship Garden is supported by a grant from the State Department of Agriculture. Multi-age linkage takes place when third grade students work with the full day kindergarten classes and are mentored by their teachers. Students participate in the Pizza Hut Book-it program.

SCHOOL CHALLENGES AND RECOGNITION: One student is recognized each day to be our “Star Student”. A paragraph is read over our public address system detailing why this student was recognized. Their names are published in our PTO newsletter, and they receive a certificate of accomplishment.

PARENT AND COMMUNITY INVOLVMENT: Parents and volunteers help in our classrooms and assist teachers with special programs. Our PTO raises significant funds to enable our students to participate in class trips and sponsors cultural arts programs throughout the year.