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Paterson Public School 28 Ranked #1 in New Jersey

Paterson, NJ (November 18, 2024) – Paterson Public Schools’ School 28 has been ranked the Best Elementary School and Best Middle School in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report. According to U.S. News, state assessment date largely determines how most elementary and middle schools are ranked.  In the elementary school category, School 28 outperformed 2,347 other schools, while in the middle school category, it surpassed 1,434 schools.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Laurie W. Newell said, “I am incredibly proud of the School 28 community. The dedication of the staff and the hard work of the students have created a learning environment that truly exemplifies excellence. This recognition highlights the progress we are making as a district to ensure that every child in Paterson receives the education they need to succeed in the future.”

School No. 28 is home to the District’s Paterson Academy of the Gifted & Talented (PAGT), a program serving students grades 2 through 8 from across the city. PAGT students are carefully screened for their ability to excel in a rigorous curriculum and are provided with a learning environment that addresses their unique social, emotional, and academic needs. For students in grades 4 through 8, the curriculum is compacted and accelerated to meet individual student needs, while a variety of clubs during the school day further enhance their academic experience. 

“I was humbled to learn that School No. 28 has been ranked as the number one elementary and middle school in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report.” said Principal Nancy Castro. “This prestigious honor is the result of the hard work and dedication of the entire community. I am deeply appreciative of the collective efforts of our students, their families, and staff.”

The ranking is the latest achievement for School 28. The school was inducted into the National Blue-Ribbon Schools Program (NBRS) for 2018. The program annually honors America’s most successful public and non-public elementary, middle, and high schools. According to NBRS website, the program recognizes both schools whose students achieve at very high levels and schools making significant progress in closing academic achievement gaps among different groups of students.

Links for U.S. News & World Report rankings:

• Elementary Schools: Best Elementary Schools in New Jersey - U.S. News Education
• Middle Schools: Best Middle Schools in New Jersey - U.S. News Education