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General Information: Academics

The Academic Program is overseen by two full-time Learning Specialists who develop, implement, and monitor learning strategies for each student in order to maximize their potential.  Academics focus on three areas: general academic programs provided to all students; specialized programs to meet individual student needs; and New Jersey Department of Education mandated core curriculum requirements.             

Specialized academic program offerings include:

A Reading Specialist is available to students requiring additional remedial assistance in reading. The specialist employs a number of strategies, and materials designed to provide a continuing diagnostic evaluation of each student's progress. Students are able to use computer assisted programs to reinforce basic reading concepts.

Certified Speech and Language Specialists work with individual students and small groups as prescribed in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) providing both diagnostic and remedial services.

A certified Spanish Teacher presents language through the integration of cultural and linguistic teaching strategies.

Computer Literacy, an integral part of every class, with PCs located and incorporated in the curriculum of each class.  The Science Lab is equipped with wireless laptops for mobility and the Art Lab is equipped with Macs for graphic design. In our state-of-the-art Computer Lab, middle and high school students become proficient in the use of the keyboard, word processing, spreadsheets, graphics, PowerPoint, internet exploration, and other essential applications. Individual and group projects require focus, effective communication, attention to detail, and meeting deadlines…all skills required in the workplace and in life. 

Fine and Performing Arts as an integral part of the Calais curriculum.  While the Arts provide numerous opportunities to explore self-expression, perhaps their greatest importance for these special children is that they begin, often for the first time, to realize that it is okay to be different.  The arts provide a window through which they view themselves and the world around them…Learn More

The Sciences play an important role in the curriculum at Calais.  A specially equipped Science Lab explores the scientific world around us.  The lab is equipped with wireless laptops, microscopes, lab tables as well as specimen materials and other essential equipment to explore biology, geology, chemistry, and the physical sciences.   The department also hosts an annual science fair.

The Environmental Club has two principal components to meet the diverse interests of our students.  The Adventure Hiking Series for upper school students has traveled to Kittatinny Valley State Park; Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area; and the Weis Ecology Center.  Team hikes are facilitated by Calais staff assisted by park rangers, naturalists, and the New Jersey Audubon Society staff. The Resident Lecture Series plays an important role in supporting the core curriculum standards in science and history. Visiting specialists present programs to students of all age groups.  Topics have included the Lenni Lenape Indian culture; Mountain Men of the West;  Lizards, Snakes, Turtles and Crocodilians;  Birds, Butterflies, Forest Life and Ecology;  and the Geology of New Jersey.

Physical Education is a valuable part of every student's curriculum.  It helps our student’s learn the value of teamwork and cooperation. Basketball and soccer teams and cheerleading have been offered, based on student availability and interest.  Adaptive Physical Education is also available as prescribed.  The School also utilizes the services of outside resources for additional lessons in dance and movement, swimming, golf, and other sports. 

Transition Education and Career Exploration, based on the New Jersey Department of Education core curriculum standards, is designed to expose students to skills necessary to become successful in a continuing education environment that is less structured than a traditional high school classroom. These skills are essential for continuing career development in the workforce as well as in a college, vocational, or technical school.   Learn More

Cooperative Programs and Partnerships with County College of Morris and vocational schools enable our high school students to participate in advanced and augmented educational and career-oriented programs.  Qualified students may take on-line or on-campus college courses, or half-day vocational programs, while continuing their academic education at Calais. Calais also enjoys relationships with several colleges that provide student teaching and intern opportunities.  These have included College of St. Elizabeth, Caldwell College, New Jersey City University (Jersey City), and others.

The Extended School Year Program, a special program for special kids, provides both academic and social integration in all activities.  It features the same safe, nurturing environment and teachers that students experience at The Calais School throughout the year. Learn More