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Ridgedale Middle School

Schools of Distinction Profile

Ridgedale Middle School was recognized in 2025 as an AMLE School of Distinction. One of the goals of the program is to foster a network of schools that share promising practices positively impacting young adolescents. The below profile provides highlights a few of Ridgedale Middle School’s exemplary practices aligned with the 18 Characteristics of Successful Middle Schools.

Connect with Ridgedale Leadership Team

Demographic Information

Location: Florham Park, New Jersey
School Setting: Suburban
Grade Configuration: 6-8
School Enrollment: 321

Leadership

Nicholas Steffner: Principal

Key Practices

  • Restorative Practices
  • Student-led Circles
  • Student choice in electives, book clubs, and project-based learning.
  • SEL and Social Justice Curriculum
  • Advisory and Executive Function Programs
  • Peer Leadership
  • Recognition Initiatives
  • Cross-curricular Interdisciplinary PD Pods and Professional Learning Visits.
  • After-school Academic Enrichment Club
  • Enrichment and Acceleration Classes
  • Capstone projects and Service Learning
  • Discovery Days - Self-Designed Exploratory Experiences

Highlights of Exemplary Practices Aligned with the 18 Characteristics of Successful Middle Schools

Highlights of Exemplary Practices Aligned with the 18 Characteristics of Successful Middle Schools

Essential Attribute: An education for young adolescents should be Responsive

Ridgedale uses student voice and developmental needs as the foundation for decisions. The use of SEL surveys, student-led recognition, and Circles shows a responsive environment where students' perspectives guide instruction, culture, and climate. From hallway messaging to committee inclusion, students are truly seen and heard.

Essential Attribute: An education for young adolescents should be Empowering

Empowerment is evident through student-led initiatives, leadership opportunities on school committees, peer tutoring, and respect agreements. Students create classroom expectations, reflect on their behavior, and take active roles in restorative practices. These structures develop agency and accountability.

Characteristic #2: The school environment is welcoming, inclusive, and affirming for all.

Whether through Peer Leader programs for new students, culturally responsive hallway messaging, or monthly character recognitions, RMS ensures that all students feel welcomed and valued. The learning environment is carefully crafted to reflect inclusivity and belonging.

Characteristic #11: Instruction fosters learning that is active, purposeful, and democratic.

Instructional practices such as Socratic Seminars, accountable talk centers, and project-based learning emphasize voice, inquiry, and collaboration. Students participate in meaningful, real-world learning that values diverse perspectives and critical thinking.

Characteristic #16: Leaders demonstrate courage and collaboration.

Leadership at RMS is shared and intentional. Team leaders, staff-driven department meetings, and student participation on major school committees exemplify distributed leadership. Administrators foster a climate of reflection and growth through personalized student engagement and staff empowerment.