The Sundance School

While I don’t deny that there are some wonderful aspects to this school, I would be very careful when considering it.
Positive:
— I will say that my child did get the attention, classroom flexibility, and education that we were promised.
— There are several excellent teachers in the school.
Negative:
— Since the founders sold the school several years ago (5?), the school has been struggling to redefine itself.
— There has been a new principal almost every year.
— Politics are high among the parents and within the administration (vyying for positions of influence).
— Clear favoritism within the theatre program (the children openly acknowledge it)

Founded nearly 40 years ago by two off-​the-​beaten track intellectuals who strove to create an interconnected preschool and elementary education of rigorous academics, arts, and civic engagement, The Sundance School is a rare gem of academic excellence AND child-​centered learning – in earnest. As an educator and academic myself, the school caters to a variety of learning styles and children from all backgrounds. What makes Sundance distinct from other competitive area schools, is its unwavering focus on the whole child. Classes are small (no more than 15 students), lessons are innovative (even for the youngest), teachers are plenty, and standards are high. Our children are taught to be critically engaged in what they’re learning – to ask questions, to think through the steps of a problem, and, most certainly, to be altruistic and kind towards their peers and the larger world. Classroom doors are always open, laughter can be heard throughout the hallways, parents are always warmly welcomed, and praise and respect for others underpin the progressive and rigorous curriculum. Teacher experience and longevity at the School are noteworthy; there are a number of faculty and staff who have been at Sundance at least two decades or more.
As a multiracial family ourselves, we greatly appreciate the ethnic and racially diverse student body. Students hail from numerous NJ counties and towns and there is a sizable international population from Europe, Latin America, and Asia as well as a growing presence of African Americans.
For working parents, this place is a «one-​stop shop.» There is early drop off and lots of engaging after school activities to choose from. My son comes home happy every day. In many ways, Sundance embodies the liberal arts – students learn to have a deep appreciation for many things and they become proficient in a diverse array of skills and topics. Importantly, the teachers and staff love and nurture the kids as if they were their own. With degrees from Trinity College, Columbia University, and Harvard School of Education, as well acting and T.V. host credits, Mr. William J. O’Reilly recently took the reins as the new Head of School. Under his stewardship, Sundance will no doubt continue to grow and define itself as something even more awesome.
Come for a visit and see for yourself what a great school Sundance is! Take a tour, come to a stage production of the Lower and Upper Schools, or visit during the school’s annual Happening! This place is about the whole child!
Please check out our School website and «like» our Facebook page:
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