New Jersey commuters traveling on the PATH system are entering a new era of fare payment with the official launch of the reloadable TAPP card. The introduction of this modern, contactless option coincides with the gradual phase-out of the MetroCard, signaling a major shift in how riders navigate the commuter rail connecting New Jersey and New York.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey unveiled the TAPP card at the newly renovated Harrison station, a $47.2 million project that includes updated facilities, improved accessibility, and a more modern commuter experience. Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton and Chairman Kevin O’Toole marked the occasion by tapping their TAPP cards at the station fare gates, celebrating the transition toward faster, more flexible fare payment options.
TAPP, which first appeared in pilot form in 2023, has quickly grown in popularity. Current usage statistics show that approximately 70% of weekday riders have adopted the system, with weekend usage nearing 80%. The card allows riders to pay quickly by tapping at fare gates, streamlining the boarding process while maintaining a physical card option for those who prefer to pay with cash.
In addition to simplifying payment, the rollout features a new generation of vending machines, initially installed at Journal Square and 33rd Street. These machines boast large touchscreens, intuitive interfaces, multilingual support, and the ability to purchase and reload TAPP cards in a single step. Existing SmartLink machines have been updated to distribute TAPP cards during the transition period, and station agents have been trained to assist commuters with questions or issues.
One of the standout features of the TAPP system is its cloud-based technology, which allows instant online balance updates. Riders can load any amount onto their card and take advantage of discounted 10-, 20-, or 40-trip packages. Unlimited passes and reduced-fare programs for seniors and riders with disabilities are scheduled to migrate to the TAPP platform in the coming months. MetroCards purchased before January 1, 2026, will continue to be accepted until a future phase-out date is confirmed.
For a $5 purchase price, TAPP cards offer convenience and security. Riders who register their card online receive a $5 travel credit, along with additional benefits such as automatic reloads and balance protection for lost or stolen cards. These features are designed to simplify commuting while maintaining flexibility for all riders, whether frequent commuters or occasional travelers.
Port Authority leaders have framed the TAPP card as a milestone in the system’s more than century-long evolution. “For more than a century, PATH has evolved alongside the region it serves, from paper tickets and tokens to magnetic cards and now tap-and-go technology,” said Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “The introduction of TAPP cards continues that legacy of progress, bringing the 117-year-old system into a new era of convenience, flexibility, and innovation.”
Executive Director Rick Cotton emphasized that the agency’s focus remains on improving the rider experience. “As MetroCard is phased out, we want PATH riders to know they will still have a simple, reliable way to pay with a physical card, including options for riders who prefer cash,” Cotton stated, highlighting the agency’s commitment to accessibility and convenience.
Commuters and travelers planning trips across New Jersey and into New York now have a more modern, efficient option for navigating the PATH system. The TAPP card represents a blend of technology, user convenience, and forward-looking infrastructure improvements designed to keep pace with the demands of a rapidly evolving transit landscape. Those interested in broader travel planning, including other regional transportation updates and travel tips, can explore travel planning resources on Explore New Jersey for a comprehensive guide to navigating the state efficiently.
With instant balance updates, seamless tap-and-go functionality, and a growing network of accessible vending machines, the TAPP card positions PATH riders to travel with greater ease, signaling a transformative step in commuter rail convenience across New Jersey and New York.
The New Jersey real estate landscape has been a hotbed of both opportunity and controversy in recent years, with a mix of high-profile legal cases and evolving financing strategies reshaping the market. Investors and homeowners alike are navigating a complex environment where historic legal battles meet modern financial tools, highlighting the risks and rewards of property ownership in the Garden State.
Several significant cases have drawn attention to financial and legal vulnerabilities within New Jersey’s real estate sector. In 2022, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) charged National Realty Investment Advisors (NRIA), a local development firm, along with four of its former executives, with running a Ponzi-like scheme. The alleged operation raised nearly $600 million from roughly 2,000 investors before the firm filed for bankruptcy protection. This case underscored the potential for large-scale financial mismanagement in the real estate industry.
High-profile figures have also faced scrutiny. Prominent Democratic political figure and real estate influencer George Norcross was indicted in mid-2024 on charges including racketeering, connected to tax credits and property deals in Camden. Although the indictments were dismissed in early 2025, the case highlighted the intricate and often legally fraught nature of development projects involving government incentives. Meanwhile, Atlantic City continues to present cautionary tales for investors, with a 2024 report ranking the city among the riskiest for property purchases over the next five years due to population decline and economic volatility. Historical cases, such as the 2009 collapse of Solomon Dwek’s real estate empire, also serve as stark reminders of how financial missteps can devastate investors and shake public confidence.
While these incidents capture extreme examples, the challenges in New Jersey’s real estate market extend to everyday investors and homebuyers. Traditional mortgage processes remain rigorous, requiring extensive documentation including bank statements, tax returns, employment records, and proof of financial stability. For many buyers, the process feels intrusive, with one frustrated purchaser describing it as a “borderline invasion of privacy.”
To sidestep these hurdles, many real estate investors are turning to a newer financial instrument known as debt-service coverage ratio (DSCR) loans. Unlike traditional mortgages, DSCR loans focus on the income potential of a property rather than the borrower’s personal financial history. Landlords and investors simply need to demonstrate that the property generates enough rental income to cover monthly mortgage payments, taxes, and insurance. This approach has enabled a wide range of investors—from small-time property buyers to social media-fueled “TikTok tycoons”—to quickly expand their portfolios without exhaustive personal scrutiny.
However, the rapid adoption of DSCR loans has not been without challenges. Delinquencies have nearly quadrupled over the past three years, according to real estate analytics firm Cotality. While these troubled loans still represent a relatively small fraction of the total DSCR market, the trend reflects growing risks in an overheated rental market and points to overambitious projections, rushed approvals, and properties where rental income falls short of covering basic expenses. Experts caution that while DSCR loans remain a valuable tool, careful oversight and realistic income assumptions are essential for long-term sustainability.
The intersection of high-profile legal cases and innovative financing strategies illustrates the evolving nature of real estate in New Jersey. For potential buyers, investors, and industry professionals, understanding both the opportunities and pitfalls is crucial to navigating today’s market. Those interested in staying up to date with developments in real estate, investment trends, and cultural insights across the state can explore the Real Estate coverage on Explore New Jersey, which also highlights events, local culture, and community-focused stories connected to property and lifestyle.
Whether examining legal dramas, new lending strategies, or emerging investment trends, New Jersey’s real estate sector continues to offer lessons in both ambition and caution, reminding residents and investors alike that the Garden State remains a dynamic—and sometimes unpredictable—market.
State Theatre New Jersey is bringing back the dazzling Cirque Dreams Holidaze for three highly anticipated performances from December 12–13, 2025. Celebrated as the original cirque holiday theatrical production, Holidaze transforms the stage into a mesmerizing winter wonderland, blending Broadway-style storytelling with breathtaking contemporary circus artistry. The show offers a festive experience designed to captivate audiences of all ages, making it a holiday tradition for New Jersey families and visitors alike.
From the first moment the lights dim, the production immerses audiences in a world of imagination, where holiday characters leap, twirl, and defy gravity. Featuring an ensemble of aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, dancers, and singers, Cirque Dreams Holidaze combines the excitement of the circus with the charm and spectacle of a holiday theatrical production. Each 90-minute performance is carefully choreographed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, blending precision and artistry with joyful storytelling.
For the 2025 season, the show has been reimagined with a variety of new elements, including original music, refreshed choreography, and visually stunning sets and costumes. Traditional holiday favorites are performed live with contemporary twists, while inventive staging and special effects create an immersive environment that feels both magical and modern. Iconic characters such as toy soldiers, reindeer, and whimsical holiday figures bring the story to life, evoking childhood wonder while providing entertainment that resonates with adults and seniors alike.
What sets Cirque Dreams Holidaze apart is its seamless fusion of family-friendly narrative and technical prowess. Audiences can expect jaw-dropping aerial displays, precision acrobatics, sleight-of-hand juggling, and interactive segments that blur the line between theatre and circus artistry. Each act is designed to highlight the performers’ skill while drawing viewers into a heartwarming holiday tale filled with humor, charm, and seasonal cheer.
The show has earned accolades for its enchanting performances and universal appeal. Broadway World praised Holidaze as an experience that allows audiences to “lose yourself for 90 minutes and go back to those wonderful dreams you had as a kid,” emphasizing its nostalgic magic and enduring charm. For families, theatre enthusiasts, and visitors to New Jersey, the production provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with artistry, spectacle, and imagination all in one unforgettable experience.
State Theatre New Jersey’s presentation of Cirque Dreams Holidaze is more than a performance; it is a community event, a shared celebration, and a festive highlight of the season. Tickets are available for all three performances, offering multiple opportunities to enjoy the show’s breathtaking aerial feats, festive music, and imaginative storytelling.
For readers looking to discover more live performances, theatre experiences, and seasonal entertainment across New Jersey, the entertainment section of Explore New Jersey provides comprehensive coverage of the state’s top cultural events, from family shows to immersive live theatre.
Whether marveling at the acrobatics, enjoying the live music, or immersing oneself in the holiday narrative, Cirque Dreams Holidaze continues to shine as one of New Jersey’s most anticipated and cherished holiday events.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze Returns to State Theatre New Jersey for a Spectacular Holiday Celebration
December 12
@
20:00
–
December 13
@
23:30
State Theatre New Jersey is set to dazzle audiences this holiday season with the return of Cirque Dreams Holidaze, performing for three shows from December 12–13, 2025. Celebrated as the original cirque holiday theatrical event, Holidaze transforms the stage into a wonderland of breathtaking acrobatics, holiday magic, and Broadway-style storytelling, offering a festive experience that appeals to audiences of all ages.
This annual tradition blends the theatricality of Broadway with the gravity-defying artistry of contemporary circus performance. From the moment the lights dim, guests are transported into a world of imagination, where holiday characters leap, twirl, and soar across the stage. With its mix of aerialists, jugglers, acrobats, and dancers, Cirque Dreams Holidaze captures the excitement, joy, and whimsy of the season, keeping audiences captivated for the full 90-minute performance.
For 2025, the show has been reimagined with fresh elements, including new sets, original music, updated choreography, and dazzling costumes. Classic holiday favorites are performed live, giving beloved seasonal songs a contemporary twist, while inventive staging and visual effects create an immersive experience that feels both magical and modern. Singers, dancers, toy soldiers, and reindeer characters bring the story to life, evoking the wonder and joy of childhood while offering entertainment that resonates with adults and seniors alike.
What sets Cirque Dreams Holidaze apart is its ability to combine family-friendly storytelling with technically stunning performances. Audiences can expect jaw-dropping aerial acts, precision-driven acrobatics, sleight-of-hand juggling, and interactive skits that blur the line between theatre and circus artistry. Each segment is meticulously crafted to highlight the performers’ skill while immersing spectators in a holiday narrative filled with warmth, humor, and festive cheer.
The show has become a holiday must-see, earning accolades from audiences and critics alike. Broadway World praised it as an experience that allows viewers to “lose yourself for 90 minutes and go back to those wonderful dreams you had as a kid,” emphasizing its universal appeal and nostalgic charm. For New Jersey families, visitors, and theatre enthusiasts, Cirque Dreams Holidaze offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the season in a way that combines artistry, storytelling, and heart-stopping spectacle.
State Theatre New Jersey’s presentation of Cirque Dreams Holidaze is more than just a performance—it’s an event that brings communities together, provides unforgettable memories, and celebrates the spirit of the holidays in a way only live theatre can. Tickets are available for all three performances, offering multiple opportunities for families, friends, and fans of circus arts to enjoy a festive night out.
For more information on live shows, theatre experiences, and seasonal entertainment across the state, readers can explore entertainment coverage on Explore New Jersey, highlighting the best events, performances, and cultural experiences New Jersey has to offer.
Whether experiencing the breathtaking aerial feats, the lively music, or the imaginative storytelling, Cirque Dreams Holidaze continues to uphold its reputation as the ultimate holiday celebration, making it a memorable centerpiece of New Jersey’s festive season.
After a chilly night and cool morning across New Jersey, residents should prepare for an even colder blast as a potent cold front moves southeast from the Appalachian Mountains into the state. Meteorologists expect this front to push through later this evening, bringing a notable drop in temperatures and the possibility of light flurries in certain areas. While any snow today will be minimal, the advancing cold air is squeezing moisture from the atmosphere, creating conditions for brief snow showers primarily in parts of central and northern New Jersey.
Observations from Pennsylvania indicate that flurries are already occurring in some regions, a signal that New Jersey could see similar light activity this afternoon and evening. The cold frontal passage sets the stage for another minor winter event across southern New Jersey tomorrow morning. Due to a more progressive stream in the jet pattern, the timing for this light snow has shifted slightly earlier, now expected overnight into early morning rather than later in the day.
Adding complexity to the forecast, a weak shortwave is expected to move through the Central Mid-Atlantic region, interacting with high pressure. This system will briefly send precipitation into the very cold air over central and southern New Jersey, while the main low-pressure center ejects toward the Atlantic Ocean near the North Carolina–South Carolina border. The high-pressure system, stretching across New York and Massachusetts, is likely to suppress snow in northern portions of the state, leaving areas north of I-195 largely dry. As a result, southwestern New Jersey has the highest probability of accumulating light snow, while southeastern counties may see only brief flurries or remain snow-free.
This early December pattern is noteworthy because temperatures are already colder than typical for this time of year. Residents in affected regions are advised to monitor local forecasts and prepare for slick spots on roadways in the morning, especially if flurries develop overnight. While this system is not expected to produce significant accumulations, it highlights how quickly winter conditions can set in across the Garden State once the first strong cold fronts of the season arrive.
For detailed updates on precipitation, temperature trends, and regional winter outlooks, local readers can explore weather reports on Explore New Jersey, providing comprehensive coverage of the state’s evolving winter weather patterns. These insights help residents and travelers stay informed and make safe decisions as the season progresses.
As the state transitions into a colder, more winter-like regime, even small flurries and minor snow events serve as a reminder that early December in New Jersey can bring unpredictable weather. Keeping an eye on frontal movements and shortwave activity will be essential for residents hoping to navigate the week ahead safely and comfortably.
A compelling new young adult novel, Victoria Stardust Goes to Camp, is making waves for its honest portrayal of the challenges faced by adolescent girls, particularly in the realms of bullying, social pressure, and the pursuit of STEM interests. Co-authored by Northern New Jersey psychologist Dr. Richard Waldron and high school student Lyla Berry, the book blends professional insight with authentic teen perspective to create a story that resonates deeply with young readers.
Set in a summer camp environment, the novel follows Victoria Stardust as she navigates the complexities of fitting in while staying true to her interests in science. The story highlights the pressures many girls experience to conform socially while also pursuing academic and extracurricular passions that are often underrepresented in their peer groups. By focusing on both the emotional and intellectual growth of its protagonist, the book provides a nuanced exploration of identity, confidence, and resilience.
Dr. Waldron, a licensed psychologist practicing in Northern New Jersey, brings a wealth of experience in adolescent mental health to the project. His expertise informs the book’s realistic depiction of social dynamics, bullying, and the internal struggles teenagers face when trying to balance social acceptance with personal ambition. Berry, still a high school student herself, contributes firsthand insight into the contemporary teen experience, ensuring that the dialogue, scenarios, and challenges feel authentic and relatable to readers.
One of the novel’s most notable strengths is how it highlights the intersection of gender and science. Victoria’s love for STEM subjects often sets her apart from her peers, reflecting a broader societal challenge where girls in science can feel marginalized or overlooked. Through her journey, the novel encourages readers to embrace their passions, seek supportive communities, and recognize their own strengths in environments that may initially feel exclusive or intimidating.
Beyond the narrative itself, Victoria Stardust Goes to Camp opens important conversations for parents, educators, and mentors about the pressures adolescents face today. It emphasizes the value of empathy, supportive peer relationships, and guidance from adults who can help young people navigate both personal and academic challenges. The co-authors’ partnership—a psychologist and a teen—underscores the importance of combining professional expertise with lived experience to create resources that are both insightful and engaging for young readers.
For families and educators looking to support teens in managing social pressures, fostering resilience, and encouraging academic exploration, additional insights and resources are available through health & wellness coverage on Explore New Jersey. This content highlights mental health, adolescent development, and programs that empower young people to thrive both emotionally and academically.
Victoria Stardust Goes to Camp offers more than a story—it provides a roadmap for navigating the challenges of adolescence while celebrating curiosity, individuality, and the pursuit of knowledge. By addressing bullying, belonging, and girls’ engagement in science, the novel is a timely and empowering addition to young adult literature, particularly for readers in New Jersey and beyond.
As the healthcare industry continues to grow and evolve, the need for practical, professional, and department-specific uniforms has never been greater. Work Hard Dress Right, a Feury Image Group company, is responding to this demand by expanding its healthcare uniform programs, offering comprehensive solutions that serve multiple departments within hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities across New Jersey.
The expansion reflects a broader shift in the healthcare sector, where uniform programs are increasingly recognized as more than just a matter of professional appearance. They play a critical role in enhancing operational efficiency, improving staff comfort, and promoting a cohesive organizational identity. Work Hard Dress Right has developed a system that addresses these challenges head-on, tailoring uniforms to meet the distinct needs of different healthcare teams, from nurses and technicians to administrative staff and specialty departments.
One of the key aspects of the program is its flexibility. By offering department-specific options, Work Hard Dress Right ensures that staff members can perform their duties safely and comfortably while projecting a polished, professional image. Materials are carefully selected for durability, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance, which is especially important in high-traffic healthcare environments where uniforms undergo frequent use and laundering. Additionally, the company emphasizes customization and branding, allowing healthcare organizations to maintain a consistent visual identity across all staff roles.
The program also supports operational efficiency in large medical facilities. By standardizing uniform policies and streamlining procurement, hospitals and clinics can reduce administrative burden, simplify ordering processes, and ensure that all employees have access to the correct attire. This approach minimizes downtime and ensures that staff members are ready to perform their duties without interruption, reinforcing patient safety and quality of care.
Work Hard Dress Right’s expansion of healthcare uniform programs is particularly timely as hospitals and medical centers continue to adapt to workforce challenges and evolving healthcare demands. Uniforms that are thoughtfully designed and strategically implemented can contribute to higher staff satisfaction, improved retention, and a stronger sense of team cohesion—factors that are increasingly critical in today’s competitive healthcare labor market.
Healthcare leaders looking for guidance on implementing or enhancing uniform programs can benefit from the company’s hands-on approach, which includes needs assessments, departmental consultations, and ongoing support. By combining industry expertise with practical solutions, Work Hard Dress Right ensures that uniform programs are not just a functional necessity but a strategic asset for healthcare organizations.
For those interested in exploring broader health trends, workforce innovations, and wellness-focused organizational strategies, additional insights are available through health & wellness coverage on Explore New Jersey. These resources highlight how hospitals, clinics, and medical service providers are integrating best practices, technology, and employee-focused solutions to improve outcomes for both staff and patients.
Through its expanded healthcare uniform programs, Work Hard Dress Right exemplifies how thoughtful design, operational efficiency, and staff-centered solutions can transform everyday challenges into opportunities for organizational improvement. By supporting multi-department needs and promoting professional consistency, the company is helping healthcare organizations in New Jersey operate more effectively while maintaining a polished, professional, and comfortable environment for employees.
In today’s rapidly evolving hospitality industry, technology has become as critical to a restaurant’s success as its menu and service. Mandy Parachini, Account Executive at Shore Merchant Services, is at the forefront of this transformation in New Jersey, helping restaurant owners navigate the digital landscape to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and drive profitability.
Parachini brings a unique combination of culinary knowledge and business acumen to her role. A graduate of The Art Institute of New York City, she began her career immersed in the culinary arts before transitioning into account management and SaaS sales. Her prior experience as a Hospitality Specialist at SpotOn allowed her to gain firsthand understanding of the challenges restaurant operators face, from managing staff and inventory to integrating technology for seamless service.
At Shore Merchant Services, Parachini works directly with restaurants to provide technology solutions that make a tangible difference in day-to-day operations. She specializes in tools such as advanced point-of-sale systems, payment processing solutions, and other software-as-a-service (SaaS) products designed specifically for the restaurant environment. Her approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the industry’s unique needs, ensuring that technology is not just implemented, but used strategically to enhance the customer experience and support business growth.
Building strong partnerships with clients is central to Parachini’s philosophy. She emphasizes a “people-first” approach, prioritizing meaningful relationships with business owners and operators. By listening to their needs, identifying operational pain points, and providing tailored solutions, she helps restaurant teams focus more on what they do best: creating memorable dining experiences for their guests.
Her work is part of a broader trend in hospitality, where innovative technology solutions are no longer optional but essential for staying competitive. Restaurants that leverage digital tools for order management, payments, and analytics can reduce errors, improve turnaround times, and better understand customer behavior—all of which contribute to stronger financial performance and customer satisfaction.
For restaurant owners and operators in New Jersey, Parachini’s role demonstrates the impact of combining industry expertise with technology-driven strategies. Her efforts help restaurants navigate complex operational challenges while empowering them to embrace innovation without sacrificing the human touch that defines hospitality.
Those interested in learning more about the latest trends, tools, and strategies transforming restaurants across the state can explore restaurants coverage on Explore New Jersey, where technology, innovation, and hospitality intersect to support thriving local businesses.
With leaders like Mandy Parachini guiding restaurants through the digital age, New Jersey’s hospitality sector is well-positioned to meet the demands of modern diners while maintaining the warmth, service, and quality that keep guests coming back.
JH Strategic IT, a leading provider of technology consulting services in New Jersey, is expanding its advisory practice to help business executives better navigate the increasingly complex landscape of IT governance and strategic technology investment. The firm’s enhanced offerings are specifically designed to provide CEOs, COOs, and CFOs with actionable insights into IT operations, spend visibility, and the tangible return on technology investments.
This company is definitely not a graphic design or creative agency, which may be part of its appeal. If they are not concerned with graphics or images on their site—because there are none—that suggests their focus is entirely on their IT work. I also appreciate its efficiency in day-to-day operations. Particularly, if they are involved in any aspect of security, their approach makes sense. Overall, in today’s fast-paced digital environment, organizations face mounting pressure to ensure their IT systems align with business objectives while maintaining cost efficiency and security compliance. JH Strategic IT addresses these challenges by offering a business-first approach to IT governance, enabling executive teams to make informed decisions about technology strategy, resource allocation, and operational efficiency. The firm’s advisory services extend beyond traditional IT consulting, focusing on the intersection of technology and business outcomes.
Key components of the expanded practice include comprehensive IT spend analysis, risk management frameworks, and structured governance protocols that provide clarity around organizational technology investments. Executives gain visibility into both short-term operational costs and long-term strategic expenditures, allowing them to optimize IT budgets while ensuring technology initiatives drive measurable business value. By combining industry best practices with tailored solutions for each client, JH Strategic IT ensures that technology investments contribute directly to organizational growth and resilience.
The firm’s advisory model emphasizes collaboration with executive leadership teams to integrate IT governance into overall business strategy. Through detailed assessments and governance frameworks, clients can identify gaps, streamline processes, and implement technology initiatives that are scalable, secure, and aligned with enterprise goals. This proactive approach helps businesses reduce risk, improve compliance, and unlock the full potential of their technology infrastructure.
Beyond governance and spend management, JH Strategic IT supports organizations in measuring the return on investment for IT projects, providing clear metrics and insights that guide future planning and prioritization. This data-driven approach enables executives to justify technology spending decisions, improve accountability, and ensure that IT initiatives are delivering tangible value across the organization.
As digital transformation accelerates across industries, JH Strategic IT’s expanded advisory services are particularly timely for companies looking to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven marketplace. Their emphasis on executive-focused IT governance bridges the gap between technical teams and business leadership, ensuring that technology supports broader strategic objectives rather than operating in isolation.
For business leaders interested in exploring the latest trends, tools, and best practices in technology management, additional insights and updates can be found through technology & tech coverage on Explore New Jersey. This resource provides in-depth analysis of emerging technologies, IT strategies, and innovation in the New Jersey business community.
With this expansion, JH Strategic IT positions itself as a trusted partner for executive teams seeking clarity, control, and measurable outcomes from their IT investments. By prioritizing governance, transparency, and ROI, the firm helps organizations transform technology from a cost center into a strategic asset, reinforcing their ability to compete, innovate, and grow in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
The New Jersey Department of Education has made public the latest school performance data for the 2023-2024 academic year, with initial insights from the 2024-2025 school year also presented in early December 2025. These detailed reports provide a comprehensive look at every district across the state, offering residents, educators, and policymakers the ability to track progress, assess achievement, and identify areas for improvement. For readers interested in broader educational trends and lifestyle impacts on families, further resources are available through lifestyle coverage on Explore New Jersey.
Accessible via the New Jersey School Performance Reports website, the data allows users to search for individual schools or entire districts. Visitors can choose between web-based dashboards summarizing key metrics or detailed PDF reports, with the option to download complete datasets for historical analysis dating back to the 2011-2012 school year. The reports draw on standardized test scores—including the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments and the NJ Graduation Proficiency Assessments—alongside graduation rates, academic growth measures, and other performance indicators.
While the NJDOE does not rank districts in a concise top-ten list, third-party organizations such as Niche and U.S. News & World Report analyze this data to highlight high-performing districts. Based on recent trends, consistently top-ranked districts include Northern Valley Regional High School District in Demarest, Princeton Public Schools, Millburn Township School District, West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District, and Ridgewood Public Schools. Other districts frequently cited for excellence include Summit, Tenafly, Haddonfield, Mountain Lakes, and the School District of the Chathams. These districts demonstrate sustained achievement across standardized testing, college readiness, and graduation outcomes.
New Jersey students continue to excel nationally. On the National Assessment of Educational Progress, often called the “Nation’s Report Card,” the state’s students outperform the national average in both reading and mathematics. In 2024, New Jersey recorded the highest fourth-grade reading scores in the nation, while eighth-grade math scores remained among the top states. College and career readiness also remains a key strength, with the state leading the nation in SAT and ACT pass rates and ranking highly for Advanced Placement exam participation and success. High preschool enrollment, low student-to-teacher ratios, and per-pupil spending of approximately $26,000 contribute to these outcomes, demonstrating New Jersey’s commitment to educational investment.
Despite these impressive results, challenges remain. Post-pandemic learning loss has left gaps in some grade levels, while achievement disparities persist between different demographic groups. Black, Hispanic, and economically disadvantaged students continue to face significant hurdles compared with their white and Asian peers, reflecting nationwide patterns of educational inequity. State initiatives aim to address these issues directly.
Programs such as the High-Impact Tutoring initiative, which targets third and fourth graders with frequent, small-group instruction, are designed to accelerate learning recovery. The RAPID Plus program strengthens literacy in grades four through six, providing professional development to teachers and school leaders. Significant investment in early childhood education has expanded access to preschool and full-day kindergarten, supported by a $1.2 billion allocation in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. Additionally, the Office of Learning Equity and Academic Recovery coordinates statewide efforts to promote literacy and learning equity, while the Promising Practices Project highlights successful teaching strategies to be replicated across districts. Innovation Dual Enrollment Grants give economically disadvantaged students access to college-level courses in high school, further bridging opportunity gaps. The state also fully funded its School Finance Reform formula in FY2025, ensuring more equitable distribution of resources to districts based on student needs.
Taken together, these data and initiatives paint a picture of a state leading in academic performance while actively addressing persistent challenges. Families, educators, and community members can explore the latest school-level insights, district profiles, and policy developments through the NJDOE dashboards or download full datasets for deeper analysis. As New Jersey continues to navigate the complexities of post-pandemic learning and ongoing equity challenges, these resources provide valuable transparency and guidance for parents and stakeholders.
South Jersey High Schools Shine with Strong Academic Performance and College Readiness
High schools across South Jersey are proving that exceptional education isn’t confined to the northern and central parts of the state. For the 2024-2025 academic year, multiple schools in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, and Salem counties have earned recognition among New Jersey’s top 100 high schools, according to analyses by Niche and U.S. News & World Report. While magnet schools in North and Central Jersey often dominate the very top of state rankings, South Jersey’s comprehensive public high schools consistently demonstrate strong academics, robust extracurricular programs, and outstanding college preparation.
Ranking methodologies typically include college readiness, state assessment performance in reading and mathematics, graduation rates, and student-to-teacher ratios. These factors offer a comprehensive picture of a school’s ability to prepare students for higher education and future careers, reflecting both academic achievement and overall learning environment.
Haddonfield Memorial High School is frequently recognized as the highest-ranking traditional public high school in South Jersey. Known for rigorous academics and strong college preparatory programs, it consistently places among the state’s leaders in overall performance and proficiency metrics. Moorestown High School is another standout, celebrated for its comprehensive approach to education, offering a wide variety of AP courses, extracurricular activities, and a strong record of student achievement. Cherry Hill East High School rounds out the list of suburban excellence, with its combination of high test scores, graduation rates, and opportunities for students to pursue college readiness.
Vocational and technical schools in South Jersey also demonstrate exceptional performance. The Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES) in Ocean County provides specialized instruction in environmental and marine sciences, consistently ranking highly in state academic assessments and proficiency rates. Similarly, the Gloucester County Institute of Technology (GCIT) and Cumberland County Technical Education Center (CCTEC) offer county-wide programs that prepare students for both college and career pathways. These schools are highly sought after due to their rigorous curricula, advanced facilities, and strong record of student success.
Eastern Regional High School exemplifies South Jersey schools with strong academic offerings paired with a wide array of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts programs, and STEM opportunities. These schools strike a balance between academic excellence and well-rounded student development, preparing graduates for success in college and beyond.
General trends in the region highlight two key patterns. First, county-based vocational and technical schools consistently achieve high rankings due to their focused programs and high test proficiency rates. Second, suburban districts such as Haddonfield, Moorestown, and Cherry Hill continue to demonstrate top-tier performance, reflecting the advantages of well-resourced school systems that provide strong instruction, small class sizes, and enriched academic environments.
For parents and students looking to explore specific school performance metrics, the New Jersey School Performance Reports website offers searchable dashboards and downloadable files with data on academic growth, standardized test scores, graduation rates, and other performance indicators. Those seeking lifestyle insights and family-focused education trends in New Jersey can also explore lifestyle coverage on Explore New Jersey, offering deeper context on how local schools and communities intersect.
South Jersey’s high schools are demonstrating that strong academic performance and college readiness extend well beyond the state’s traditional educational powerhouses. With a combination of rigorous coursework, specialized programs, and community support, these schools continue to prepare students for success, making the region a hub for educational excellence in New Jersey.
By understanding the data and leveraging state initiatives, New Jersey schools aim to maintain their national leadership, support students from diverse backgrounds, and ensure that all children have the opportunity to succeed academically and beyond.
New Jersey School Performance Reports
The School Performance Reports reflect the New Jersey Department of Education’s (NJDOE) commitment to providing parent, students, and school communities with a large variety of information about each school, each district, and the state overall. These reports can be used as a tool to help evaluate whether all students have equitable access to high quality education. We encourage you to use these reports to learn more, start conversations, and engage.
As the NJDOE transitions to the New Jersey Statewide Longitudinal Education Data System (NJSLEDS), the School Performance Reports have moved to the NJDOE webpage. The NJDOE plans to release new redesigned reports for the 2024-2025 school year in spring 2026. For now, PDF versions of reports from 2016-2017 to 2023-2024 are available by searching below, along with a new summary report dashboard with key data elements for 2023-2024. Databases of report data from 2011-2012 through 2023-2024 are available on the Downloadable Data tab. If you need any support during this transition, please contact reportcard@doe.nj.gov.
