Washington Academy was founded in 1982 by Dr. Jack Schwartz after his many experiences working with special needs children. More than 40 years ago, he began his career as a special education teacher in East Harlem, New York. He then became a School Psychologist and Supervisor of Special Services in the public school in New Jersey.
Dr. Schwartz’s philosophy on education was that all children were special, but some children required special help.
Washington Academy still holds true to that philosophy. Dr. Schwartz understood that not all children learned the same way. He also understood that children who struggle in school start to develop a low self-image and low self-esteem.
That is why he started Washington Academy, to provide a positive school experience for all of its students. Dr. Schwartz has worked tirelessly to help build up students’ self-confidence academically and socially as well as emotionally.
As Dr. Schwartz puts it, “We are saving lives.”
Over the three decades that Washington Academy has been in existence, students have gone on to graduate from high school, and college and become positive and productive members of society.
Dr. Schwartz has dedicated his life to helping students achieve their maximum potential by creating a happy, positive and safe environment for learning. Students who attend Washington Academy enjoy coming to school and many of our students have perfect attendance.
Washington Academy began in 1982 in South Orange, NJ with only 30 students.
The core philosophy still remains: “Changing the lives of its students for the better and giving them the opportunity to succeed in life."