Schools in Oradell NJ

For families considering a move to Oradell, NJ, schools often top the priority list. A high-quality education sets the foundation for children’s success, and Oradell delivers on that promise. With strong public schools, respected private options, rich preschool offerings, and access to nearby colleges, this borough offers education across the spectrum. This guide outlines everything you need to know about schools in Oradell NJ—so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Public School District Overview

Oradell’s public education begins with the Oradell Public School District, serving grades Pre‑K through 6 at a single school. As of 2022–23, it had 817 students and 63 full‑time teachers, for a student‑teacher ratio of 13:1, and is placed in District Factor Group “I”, denoting high socioeconomic standing.

For grades 7–12, students enter the River Dell Regional School District, shared with nearby River Edge. As of 2021–22, the district enrolled 1,606 students across River Dell Middle School (grades 7–8) and River Dell High School (grades 9–12), with a combined ratio of 11.5:1, also classified in the same socioeconomic group.

Elementary Schools

Oradell Public School (Pre-K–6)

• Enrollment: 773 students

• Student‑Teacher Ratio: 12:1

• Academic Proficiency:

  • Math: 74% (Top 10% in NJ)

  • Reading: 81% (Top 10%)

  • Science: 60–64% (Top 5%).
    This strong performance places Oradell Elementary among the top 10% of schools statewide.

Middle & High Schools

River Dell Middle School (Grades 7–8)

• Enrollment: 570 students

• Ratio: 11:1

• Proficiency:

  • Math: 65% (Top 20%)

  • Reading: 77% (Top 10%)

  • Science: 37% (Top 20%)
    Overall testing ranks in the top 20% of NJ schools .

River Dell High School (Grades 9–12)

• Enrollment: 992 students

• Ratio: 11.2:1 .

• Proficiency:

  • 9th grade reading: 84.1% (NJ average ~58%)

  • Algebra I proficiency: 67.3% (state average ~23%)

  • Graduation Rate: 97.8%

  • Dropout Rate: 0%.

• Recognition: National Blue Ribbon School (1997–98).
  AP courses are offered, and the school competes in the Big North athletic conference, with strong sports traditions .

Private & Parochial Options

• St. Joseph School (Pre‑K2–8): A Catholic school in Oradell providing faith-based education, enrichment programs, and after-school clubs .

• Private Preschools: The only private preschool in the 07649 zip is St. Joseph School’s preschool, serving approx. 218 students; all private preschools in Oradell are religiously affiliated.

Preschools & Early Education

In addition to St. Joseph’s preschool, other notable early education centers in town include:

• Reformed Church Nursery School, a non‑profit, non‑sectarian program for ages 2½–5 .

• The Greenhouse Preschool at St. Joseph School (Oradell).

• Nearby preschools include Church of the Savior Nursery School (Paramus) and Grace Lutheran’s New Beginnings (River Edge) .
  Additional options like Kol Dorot Early Learning Center are also available in the borough .

Nearby Colleges & Universities

While Oradell does not host colleges, residents are within easy reach of several:

• Fairleigh Dickinson University (Teaneck)

• Bergen Community College (Paramus)

• Ramapo College (Mahwah)
  Plus, all Bergen County students can apply to the Bergen County Technical Schools, including the prestigious Bergen County Academies.

Extracurriculars & Special Programs

• Oradell Elementary offers Gifted & Talented programming.

• River Dell High School excels in athletics—including state championships in volleyball, wrestling, and soccer—as well as arts and AP coursework .

• Support for special education is integrated district‑wide, and the towns’ socioeconomic resources (District Factor Group “I”) suggest robust funding for diverse student needs .

Parent Involvement & Community Support

PTAs and booster clubs are active at each school level, hosting events, fundraisers, and family programs. Schools often collaborate with local organizations for enrichment—whether music recitals, sports tournaments, or community service. For a full view of Oradell life—including school events and community vibe—see the Living in Oradell NJ guide and our Homes for Sale in Oradell NJ page to explore properties near your preferred schools.

FAQs for Parents

1. Are the schools highly rated?
Yes. Oradell’s schools consistently rank among the top in New Jersey based on proficiency, accolades, and parent reviews.

2. What’s the student-teacher ratio?
Approximate ratios: Oradell Elementary 12:1, River Dell Middle 11:1, River Dell High 11.2:1.

3. Are full-day kindergarten and Pre-K available?
Yes. Pre-K is available at the elementary school; Kindergarten is offered as standard part of the curriculum.

4. What extracurriculars are most popular?
At River Dell, athletics (especially volleyball and football), AP classes, and arts programs are popular. At the elementary level, enrichment such as G&T and after-school clubs engage younger children.

5. Do schools provide busing?
Yes—standard transportation services are offered within district boundaries for eligible students.

6. How do Oradell schools compare to nearby towns?
Oradell’s schools perform at or above nearby communities, with high proficiency rates, low student–teacher ratios, and strong district funding.

Bottom Line

For families weighing their options, schools in Oradell NJ offer both exceptional academic performance and a nurturing environment. From early childhood through high school, students benefit from strong curriculums, extracurricular richness, and an engaged community. If education is a priority for your family, Oradell represents a rare blend of academic excellence and suburban warmth.

To see homes zoned for these top schools, explore the Homes for Sale in Oradell NJ listings and find the property that sets the stage for your family’s next chapter.