Hats Off to the Class of 2023!

At ECLC of New Jersey, we are so proud of the seven graduates from our school in Ho-Ho-Kus for students with special needs who walked the aisle in cap-and-gown in June!

They were celebrated with awards, speeches and accolades for their accomplishments, while proud parents and staff looked on. Many of our grads are moving right into our PRIDE Adult Program this summer in Saddle Brook. One is entering the workplace.

No matter their next step, they all have a solid plan for the future. One of the benefits of an ECLC education is the strong support we provide to help our students transition from school to adulthood -- or from the world of entitlement to opportunities and services.

Our Transition Specialists from Community Personnel Services (CPS) work with every graduate, and their families, to create a post-graduation plan. Students "job sample" during the last year of school to determine the best fit for possible future employment. They also explore day programs and other alternative options.

CPS staff helps navigate through the sometimes-complicated maze of government agencies to access available aid and services, including transportation. CPS also offers Support Coordination services to clients in Essex, Somerset and Union counties and is among the few agencies in New Jersey allowed to approve individual plans without oversight from the state Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD).

We are so proud of our latest graduates!

About ECLC of New Jersey

ECLC is an accredited, nonprofit with two schools in Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus, educating nearly 300 students and offering post-graduate program to some 600 adult clients and school alumni.

ECLC provides two paths for students after graduation. ECLC’s affiliate Community Personnel Services (CPS) finds appropriate jobs for graduates in their communities and provides ongoing support and advocacy in the workplace. Those graduates who are not ready for jobs can enter the PRIDE Adult Program, with centers in Florham Park and Saddle Brook. Adults in PRIDE spend meaningful days in habilitation activities; volunteering in the community; and continuing to learn and grow.

The PRIDE Enrichment Program is a twice-weekly evening component that is open to any adult with special needs who is either working or in another day program. Learn more about ECLC.