About Our Programs

Northern Hills Academy Instruction Program

Our interdisciplinary and sensory integrated classes are designed to meet the individual needs of each student. The strong professional team approach provides carryover of students' therapy goals and objectives to all aspects of our students' educational programs. The instruction is based on a curriculum aligned with the core curriculum standards and on each student's Individual Education Plan.

Character Education, Scouting, Pet Therapy and our Fine Arts activities encourage independence, self-esteem, creativity, social interaction, good decision-making, and community involvement. There programs offer values intertwined with fun and exciting educational sessions, assemblies, and field trips.

Wheelchair/Equipment Clinics

The physical therapist and a technician hold regular wheelchair/equipment clinics at Northern Hills Academy where equipment is repaired and/or adjusted for student growth. During the wheelchair/equipment clinics, the school, and/or home needs of students, in the areas of wheelchairs, chairs, bathroom equipment etc. are addressed. Parents are encouraged to attend these clinics and participate in the decision making process to best meet their child's needs. Parents are encouraged to initiate contact with the physical therapist to express needs and request scheduling for a wheelchair clinic. For questions or concerns about wheelchairs/equipment, you may contact Jeanne Ortiz, Physical Therapist at (973) 579-6980.

Orthosis Clinic

The orthosis clinic offers our families/students a chance to have prescribed/ recommended orthoses discussed with the PT/OT, parents, and orthotist. The child can then be casted to create a mold of the body) art or measured here at NHA. The orthosis is then delivered to NHA with the PT to assure optimal fit and function. Orthosis clinics at NHA are provided by Paul Duffy, a state certified orthotist/prosthetist, of Next Step Orthopedics.

Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired

The Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired annually provides ophthalmologic examiners to screen Northern Hills Academy students. Additionally, an educational consultant from the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired comes to Northern Hills Academy several times during the school year to visit students who meet the criteria of eligibility and whose resident districts have registered them for service.