ECLC of NJ: “Education, Careers & Lifelong Community” for Children and Adults with Special Needs
In 1922, as Chatham Borough, along with the entire world, was coming out of a horrible pandemic, there was some a sliver of news: a new school building opened at 21 Lum Avenue.
The new building replaced the borough’s original school, located just yards away, which today serves as the municipal building. It was built to serve youngsters in the somewhat new community of Chatham Borough, which had seceded from Chatham Township only 23 years prior in 1897.
While many students countdown to the summer months of no schoolwork. Our students with special needs continued in the classroom through Aug. 1, and they couldn’t have been happier about it!
ECLC offers what is known as an Extended School Year (ESY) program at both our Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus schools.
Most students attend as prescribed by their Individual Education Plan (IEP). The program is critical so students don’t backslide. They enjoy an August “break” for vacation and other leisure, but it’s practically a year-around program to ensure every student’s success.
Continue reading “Summer Program Keeps Students on Track!”We are thrilled to announce that Matt Kuzdral, the Ho-Ho-Kus school Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), has been named the Region 1 Related Services Provider of the Year by ASAH. (This is the umbrella association for schools and agencies serving students with special needs.)
He was competing with other professionals across North Jersey and now goes onto vie for a state title later this year!
We are not surprised by Kuzdral’s win. He is an incredibly strong advocate for our students. For students with special needs, the road to independence is often blocked by challenging and sometimes severe maladaptive behaviors. These behaviors may be their only mode of communication, making it extremely difficult for them to advocate for themselves in a positive manner. He offers compassion and kindness to break down barriers to communication, leading to more positive behaviors.
Continue reading “Matt Kuzdral Named Region 1 Related Services Provider of the Year”On Thursday, Feb. 3, at 7 p.m., join our Ho-Ho-Kus school Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) Matthew Kuzdral for a parent workshop on how to use behavioral supports at home and in the community with your child with special needs.
All parents are welcome to attend, whether or not your child is enrolled at an ECLC of New Jersey school. Our workshops are aimed at supporting all parents and educating them on best practices; the latest technology; and tips and techniques to help their child reach their full potential.
Register by sending an e-mail to receive the Zoom link:
Out of an abundance of caution, our Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus schools will be converting to remote sessions for the first week after the holiday break, from Jan. 3–7.
Schools will conduct a morning and an afternoon session. The morning session will run from 9 a.m.–12 p.m. After a one-hour lunch break, the afternoon session will take place from at 1 p.m.–2:30 p.m. Students must log in to avoid an absence.
Even though school will be conducted remotely for the week, families must continue to report any positive COVID test results or close contacts to the school nurse.
We expect to return to in-person instruction on January 10, with a final decision to be confirmed next week.
We wish our students and their families a safe and healthy New Year!
