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About Classical Academy

A close-knit community in Clifton, NJ, committed to academic excellence and preparing every student for the competitive opportunities that lie ahead.

Students at Classical Academy
1998 Est. in Clifton, NJ
Our Story

Built on Belief.
Driven by Results.

Classical Academy was founded in 1998 with a clear purpose: to give middle school students in Clifton, NJ, a rigorous academic foundation in a small, supportive environment. As a public charter school, we opened our doors to families seeking something different from a conventional middle school experience, and that commitment has guided us ever since.

Over the years, Classical Academy has built a record that speaks for itself. We have been recognized as a Charter School to Watch and named by Educational Insider for our strong academic outcomes. Today, approximately 50 percent of our graduates go on to attend competitive private high schools or the Passaic County Magnet School, a testament to the preparation our students receive here.

We serve grades 5 through 8 with an enrollment of 180 students, keeping classes intentionally small at around 14 students per teacher. Every student who walks through our doors is treated as a scholar who belongs, and every staff member is dedicated to making that belief a daily reality.

1998Year Founded
180Current Students
14:1Student-Teacher Ratio
50%Grads to Competitive Schools
5–8Grade Levels Served
What We Stand For

Our Core Values

Every decision we make and every classroom interaction we have is guided by these principles, which reflect who we are as a school community.

📚

Academic Excellence

We hold every student to high standards. With two math and two ELA classes each day, plus honors and advanced learning in grades 6 through 8, we ensure every scholar is ready for what comes next.

🤝

Belonging and Community

We are a tight-knit group of staff and students who genuinely care for one another. We want every student to know they have a place at Classical Academy, on day one and every day after.

🔬

Innovation Through STEM

Classical tradition meets modern learning. Our STEM-infused science curriculum and after-school STEM program, including drones and hands-on kits, prepare students for a technology-driven world.

🌱

Whole-Student Growth

Academics are only part of the picture. Through clubs, intramural sports, art, Latin, and individualized intervention support, we nurture the full potential of every student we serve.

How We Teach

A Curriculum Built for
Every Learner

Classical Academy combines the discipline of classical education with the energy of modern initiatives. Our model is intentionally structured to challenge students academically while supporting those who need additional help, ensuring no one is left behind and every student is pushed forward.

Core Academics

Rigorous Daily Instruction

Students receive two periods of math and two periods of English Language Arts each day, building deep fluency and critical thinking skills that match or exceed grade-level expectations.

Advanced Learning

Honors Courses in Grades 6, 7 and 8

Students who are ready to accelerate have access to honors and advanced coursework, giving them the competitive edge they need to gain admission to top high schools and magnet programs.

STEM Integration

Science and After-School STEM Program

STEM is woven into our science curriculum and extended through an after-school program featuring drones and hands-on engineering kits. Students explore real-world problems using technology and creative thinking.

Student Support

Intervention and Special Education Services

We meet every learner where they are. Struggling students receive structured intervention support, and our special education team ensures individualized care for students with identified needs.

Learning at Classical Academy
Our People

The Team Behind Every Scholar's Success

Our educators are passionate, experienced, and deeply committed to the Clifton community they serve every day.

Leadership team

School Leadership

Administration

Led by Dr. Greg Farley, our administrative team sets the tone for high expectations, a positive school culture, and responsive family communication. Tours are personally conducted by our principal, giving families a true window into life at Classical Academy.

Classroom teachers

Classroom Educators

Instruction and Curriculum

Our teachers are selected for their expertise and their belief that every student can achieve. With class sizes of approximately 14 students, each teacher knows their scholars personally and adapts instruction to meet individual needs.

Student support staff

Student Support Team

Intervention and Special Education

From academic intervention specialists to special education staff, our support team works alongside classroom teachers to ensure no student falls through the cracks. Every learner receives the attention and resources they deserve.

Take the Next Step

Ready to Start Your Scholar's Journey?

Schedule a personal tour with Dr. Farley and see Classical Academy for yourself. Tours are available on a rolling basis, up to an hour with time for your questions.