About
Since 1967, The Deron School has offered a state-approved private school program for students with multiple disabilities (MD), physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and down syndrome. Our nurturing environment, family culture, personalized curriculum design and methods are all quite intentional—to optimize the experience and results of your student.
Our Mission
The mission of The Deron School is to provide a comprehensive school experience within a warm supportive structured learning environment that empowers students to reach their highest level of independence and achievement. Deron prepares students with disabilities to lead successful, productive lives, allowing them to become contributing members of their community. Our students discover talents, cultivate strengths, conquer challenges and fulfill dreams.
Our History
When considering what makes The Deron School so special, one must look to the expert, caring guidance provided to staff and students alike by founders Ronald and Diane Alter.
As young professionals working with multiply disabled children over four decades ago, they realized that existing educational programs in the public sector were not meeting the needs of these children.
Consequently, in November of 1967, they founded The Deron School. Over the next 52 years, The Deron School evolved from a one-room program with a single student into two comprehensive campuses providing essential educational services to more than 225 disabled students from eight New Jersey counties.
Today The Deron School continues to thrive – Its ongoing success is a tribute to the dedication and continued guidance from Ron and Diane. In addition to their leadership roles at the school, both serve as volunteers in community-service organizations.