Montclair Schools Rank High On New List; District Still Navigating Financial Challenges

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Nine public schools in Montclair were recently named as some of the “Best Elementary and Middle Schools” in the state as part of U.S. News & World Report’s latest lists.

The 2026 rankings include approximately 47,000 public elementary schools and 23,000 middle schools evaluated at the state and district levels, with charter schools categorized separately. Rankings are based on publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Education, and for district-level recognition, at least two of a district’s top-performing schools must fall within the top 75 percent of all schools assessed.

Here are the rankings for several noteworthy Montclair schools this year, district administrators said:

Middle Schools

• Buzz Aldrin Middle School – Ranked #111 in New Jersey (Improvement from #138 last year)
• Renaissance at Rand Middle School – Ranked #146 in New Jersey (Improvement from #183 last year)
• Glenfield Middle School – Ranked #242 in New Jersey (Improvement from #333 last year)

Elementary Schools

• Northeast Elementary School – Ranked #177 in New Jersey
• Hillside Elementary School – Ranked #180 in New Jersey
• Watchung Elementary School – Ranked #203 in New Jersey
• Edgemont Montessori School – Ranked #227 in New Jersey
• Charles H. Bullock School – Ranked #295 in New Jersey
• Bradford Elementary School – Ranked #386 in New Jersey

“This recognition reflects the heart of who we are as a district,” Superintendent Ruth Turner said. “It celebrates the dedication of our educators, the curiosity and perseverance of our students, and the strength of our community.”

Turner also referenced the district’s ongoing financial struggles, which continue to cause uncertainty in the township.

“Even as we navigate challenges, Montclair continues to demonstrate that when we center students and work together, excellence follows,” the superintendent said.

• See Related: 103 Montclair School Staff Laid Off, Given ‘Reduction In Force’ Notices
• See Related: Montclair School Board OKs Special Election For Taxpayer Bailout

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