Individualized Instruction and Small Classes
The most important question to ask any school is how they individualize instruction. Students with special needs benefit from small class sizes where certified teachers and trained paraprofessionals can adapt instruction in real time. At The Gateway School, the academic program aligns with New Jersey State Learning Standards and is delivered in small, structured settings that prioritize individual attention.
Comprehensive Related Services
Academics alone are not enough. A strong special education school provides on-site therapy services, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and counseling, integrated into the school day. The Gateway School offers all of these through its support services, along with behavioral services, including BCBA consultation and child psychiatric services through a partnership with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (UBHC).
Life Skills and Transition Planning
For families of older students, transition planning should be a major factor. The right school will actively prepare students for employment, independent living, and community participation. The Gateway School’s transition program begins at age 14 and includes in-house and community-based work experiences that give students hands-on preparation for adult life.
Specialized Programming
Look for schools that offer programming tailored to your child’s specific needs. The Gateway School provides specialized supports for students on the autism spectrum, as well as programs in adaptive physical education, music, art, and STEM education that enrich the student experience beyond core academics.
School Culture and Environment
Beyond programs and services, a school's culture matters. Visit in person. Observe how staff interact with students. Notice whether classrooms feel calm, structured, and supportive. Ask about staff training, student-to-teacher ratios, and how the school communicates with families. A school that prioritizes safety, respect, and emotional well-being creates the foundation for everything else.
Start the Conversation
The Gateway School has been serving students ages 5–21 and their families in Carteret, NJ, just 20 minutes from the Edison/Woodbridge area, within walking distance of the new Carteret Performing Arts Center and minutes from the town’s crown jewel, The Carteret Waterfront Park. We welcome families to tour our campus and meet our dedicated and supportive team. Contact us to take the next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key factors include small class sizes, individualized instruction aligned with state standards, comprehensive on-site therapy services, behavioral support with BCBA consultation, life skills and transition programming, specialized offerings (STEM, adaptive PE, creative arts), and a safe, nurturing school culture. We strongly recommend visiting the school in person.
If your child’s current placement is not meeting their IEP goals, or if they need more intensive support in areas like behavior, communication, social skills, or life skills than their current school can provide, it may be time to explore specialized options. Your child’s case manager or IEP team can help guide this decision.
Yes. The Gateway School in Carteret, NJ, serves students ages 5 through 21 from across New Jersey, including Middlesex County and surrounding areas. The school is an approved private school for students with disabilities.
The admissions process begins with a referral from the student’s sending school district. Families can also contact The Gateway School directly to learn more and schedule a campus tour. The school works closely with districts to ensure a smooth transition for every student.
Thank you for visiting The Gateway School
Since 1980, RKS Associates has been a leader in providing the needs of special education students and helping children grow to their fullest potential. Each of our schools seeks to empower each student with skills for life, work, and recreation; we believe that every individual possesses the dignity and potential to contribute to a better world.
As part of the RKS Associates Network of schools in New Jersey, the goal at the Gateway School is to assist all students in becoming as independent as possible and help them get ready for the future. Located in Carteret, NJ, we serve individuals throughout Central and Northern New Jersey. Contact us at our main office at 732.541.4400 with any questions, but to get started, please contact your District's Case Manager.
Kevin Jones Principal-The Gateway School of Carteret, NJ