ECLC of New Jersey was founded with the mission of ensuring children with special needs thrive in school to reach their highest potential and prepare for life as adults.
We offer more than 50 years of experience providing “Education, Careers & Lifelong Community” to children and adults with autism, Down syndrome and multiple disabilities.
ECLC is an accredited nonprofit with schools in Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus, educating 250 students ages 5–21, and adult programs serving more than 500 clients and ECLC school alumni throughout central and northern New Jersey.
The Power of Private Schools
The pandemic has highlighted the benefit of educating students with special needs in a school environment that is completely dedicated to supporting them. In September 2020, we safely opened our doors for in-person learning, delighting students and parents.
As one mom said about her child, “She loves her teacher and comes home from school happy. When your child comes home laughing and smiling, it makes all the difference in the world. It makes you feel good.” Read more.
Find out what sets ECLC apart.
Snapshot of the Chatham school.
Last summer, we were able to hold an in-person, outdoor graduation at our Chatham school. Read more.
Contact Us
Chatham School Principal:
Jason Killian – jkillian@eclcofnj.org (973-635-1700)
Ho-Ho-Kus School Principal:
Vicki Lindorff – vlindorff@eclcofnj.org (201-670-7880)
A Guide for Parents as They Consider Special Education Placement
Download and use this valuable checklist when visiting schools to help make decisions about appropriate placement.
Adult Programs
ECLC offers transition and employment services through its affiliate, Community Personnel Services (CPS). CPS helps adults with disabilities find jobs in their communities and provides ongoing support and advocacy in the workplace. Download the CPS brochure.
Graduates who are not ready for the workplace can enter the PRIDE Adult Program, with centers in Florham Park and Paramus. More than 170 adults are enrolled in PRIDE, which is exclusively for ECLC alumni. Adults in PRIDE spend meaningful days in activities, volunteering in the community and continuing to learn and grow throughout adulthood. Download the PRIDE brochure.