About Pierrepont School

Pierrepont School is located at 70 East Pierrepont Avenue on a 2.7 acre site. Originally constructed in 1906, Pierrepont School has been part of the Rutherford community for almost a century. Over the years a number of additions to the original building have expanded its capacity and have provided instructional areas to accommodate increased enrollments and current curriculum programs. Core facilities, including a Mac-lab, an on-line media center, an instrumental music room, and an art suite, have been upgraded to enhance the delivery of instruction to students.

Within a caring and nurturing environment, Pierrepont School is committed to offering a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge all of our students in grades 4-8. Limited English Proficient students and students with disabilities are afforded appropriate and challenging programs at Pierrepont School. Almost one quarter of Pierrepont students comes from families who speak a native language other than English. To prepare our students to function in a diverse society, we are committed to cultivating a respect and appreciation for differences as we strive together to reach common goals.

Technology is viewed as a valuable tool to enhance learning at Pierrepont School. Every classroom is equipped with computers and curriculum-related software. An emphasis has been placed on teacher training and in-service in technology. A Mac lab affords students the opportunity to develop computer skills previously taught in high school. The media center offers students and teachers technological resources as tools for research. The Internet further extends technology-based communication and information retrieval in the classroom.

At Pierrepont School the arts are also an essential part of the educational experience. Students are exposed to a curriculum which provides for a comprehensive fine and performing arts education. Small group instrumental music lessons are available to all interested students beginning in grade four. A co-curricular drama club affords middle school students the experience of staging and performing a play. Two literary journals, one for elementary authors and one for middle school writers, are published in the spring. A multicultural fine arts exhibit annually displays the art work of every Pierrepont student. The school chorus and the band perform each semester. In May many of our students participate in the Bergen County Teen Arts Festival.

Life-skills are incorporated in curricular and co-curricular activities. A Child Assault Prevention (CAP) program is provided to students in grade seven. A formal conflict resolution program is implemented in grade four. Intramural programs in tennis, basketball, and volleyball engage many students. Swimming, as a life skill and as a key to wellness, is taught to every fourth and fifth grader.

The professional staff at Pierrepont School maintains high expectations for all students. To this end the faculty is involved in an ongoing process of professional development and curriculum review. Cognizant of the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards, teachers continue to work to align district courses of study with content standards. A number of faculty members serve on statewide committees responsible for implementing and assessing the new standards. At every grade level and across the disciplines, Pierrepont School is committed to helping students acquire a sound foundation upon which to build a life time of learning.