A New Vision for Freehold Education: Where Every Child Learns Their Way

Freehold, New Jersey, is on the verge of an educational transformation. The Four Rivers STEAM Charter School is set to revolutionize how students learn by offering a powerhouse educational program tailored to diverse learning styles, multilingual students, and 21st-century skills development.

For years, parents in Freehold Borough and Freehold Township have advocated for a learning environment that goes beyond traditional methods—one that recognizes the unique potential of every child, especially those whose first language isn't English. Now, that vision is becoming a reality.

What Makes Four Rivers STEAM Charter School Different?

Project-Based STEAM Learning That Prepares Students for the Future

STEAM education—integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—forms the foundation of the Four Rivers curriculum. But this isn't just about textbooks and lectures. Students engage in hands-on, project-based learning that brings academic concepts to life.

Imagine students designing buildings, developing sustainable neighborhoods, exploring energy solutions, and using engineering principles to solve real-world problems. At Four Rivers, literacy and mathematical skills are woven into creative projects that serve the community and improve lives.

Multilingual Excellence: Turning Language Diversity Into Academic Strength

One of the most innovative aspects of Four Rivers STEAM Charter School is its focus on multilingual learners. Rather than viewing language barriers as obstacles, the school recognizes that multilingual students possess natural talents that, when properly supported, lead to rapid academic advancement.

The program addresses the significant achievement gap that has caused Freehold test scores to decline and has limited opportunities for students in the Borough. By integrating literacy development with personal skill-building, collaborative learning, and critical thinking, Four Rivers creates pathways out of poverty and toward academic excellence.

All students will have opportunities to learn languages of their choice and explore diverse cultures, preparing them for success in an increasingly multicultural, competitive world.

The Four Rivers Educational Approach: Personalized Learning for Every Child

Science of Reading + Lexia Learning

Four Rivers integrates proven literacy methods, including the Science of Reading and Lexia Learning programs, to enhance reading comprehension and verbal language expression. These tools ensure that all students, regardless of their starting point, can engage meaningfully with hands-on and project-based learning activities.

Individualized Learning For Success Plans

Under the leadership of Dr. Carole B. Reiss, Director of Education, Four Rivers takes a revolutionary approach: teaching each child according to their specific needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all curriculum. Teachers are evaluated based on their ability to create personalized "Learning For Success Plans" for every student.

This hyper-focused approach recognizes that traditional district methods don't work for all learners and that professional, innovative teaching makes all the difference.

Special Education and Inclusive Classrooms

The school sets aside two classes specifically for special populations, with no more than 12 students per class, ensuring individualized attention and support for students with diverse learning needs.

School Structure and Enrollment Information

Our K-8 Plan

Four Rivers STEAM Charter School plans to open in September 2028 with Kindergarten and 1st Grade, adding one grade level each year until we become a full K-8 school. This gradual approach allows our students to grow with us, advancing to the next grade each year without having to change schools. With approximately 50 students per grade level and small class sizes of 20-25 students, we can provide personalized attention, build strong academic foundations, and create a supportive learning environment where every child can thrive.

Enrollment

We welcome all students, regardless of academic ability, background, or learning needs. Admission is free and does not require testing, interviews, or academic screening.

Enrollment preference is given to families residing in Freehold Township and Freehold Borough, with remaining seats available to students outside these communities.

If applications exceed available seats, students will be selected through a fair and transparent lottery process. Students who are not selected will be placed on a waiting list and contacted if a seat becomes available.

Our goal is to make enrollment simple, fair, and accessible to every family.

Building on Freehold's Legacy of Educational Innovation

Freehold has a history of supporting independent schools, including the BioTech High School—Monmouth County's leading independent STEM high school. Independent charter schools represent top-tier 21st-century education, offering:

• Professional training for teachers focused on creative, innovative instruction

• Well-developed, student-centered curriculum

• Flexibility to adapt to community needs

• Proven success in preparing students for competitive careers

A Culture of Respect, Community, and Excellence

Beyond academics, Four Rivers STEAM Charter School is committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment where:

• Bullying, antisemitism, prejudice, and injustice have no place

• Community, brotherhood, and friendship are fostered

• All diverse identities are respected and celebrated

• Students learn to live together in peace and work toward creating a better world

This values-driven approach ensures that students graduate not only with academic skills but also with the character and cultural competence needed to thrive in a multicultural society.

Meeting New Jersey Department of Education Standards

The school's application has been reviewed by the New Jersey Department of Education, which has requested that all Freehold test scores be included as one district. This approach ensures that the school serves all Freehold students equally and equitably, without stigmas based on socioeconomic status.

How You Can Get Involved

Four Rivers STEAM Charter School is truly a community-driven initiative. Parents and community members can support the school's establishment through:

• Signing the petition at fourriversschool.com

• Creating videos showing support

• Writing letters to the State Education Department

• Attending community and Zoom meetings

• Participating in the Sunday Breakfast Program at IHOP on Route 9

This is your school—a school that puts your child's unique needs, talents, and potential first.

Preparing Freehold Students for Greatness

The Four Rivers STEAM Charter School represents more than just a new educational option—it's a commitment to helping every Freehold student develop the skills, confidence, and cultural awareness needed to achieve greatness in their community and beyond.

With its focus on multilingual excellence, personalized learning, STEAM integration, and inclusive values, Four Rivers is poised to close achievement gaps, elevate test scores, and give students from all backgrounds the tools they need to compete and succeed in the 21st century.

Ready to be part of this soaring success model of teaching and learning?

Sign the petition today at fourriversschool.com and give your child the education they deserve.

For more information about Four Rivers STEAM Charter School, enrollment timelines, and how to support the establishment of this innovative K-8 multilingual charter school in Freehold, NJ, visit fourriversschool.com.