Accredited Private Special Needs School in Northern NJ for Students Ages 5-21

Based in Nutley, NJ The Phoenix Center is an accredited private special needs school serving the educational, behavioral and therapeutic needs of students ages 5-21 with autism, multiple disabilities, behavioral and intellectual disabilities. Our customized programs are built around the whole child and anchored by a hands-on, real-life, community-based instruction model.

A Message From the Executive Director

Welcome to The Phoenix Center! I invite you to explore our website to learn more about our commitment to providing cutting-edge educational, therapeutic, and transition services for students with special needs and their families.

As we celebrate our 35th anniversary this year, our mission remains our primary purpose: to serve our students and their families by helping them uncover their full potential. It is my honor, as Executive Director, to continue this legacy of educational excellence.

This year, our theme is mindfulness. We believe that by fostering a sense of awareness and presence, we can create an even more compassionate and effective learning environment. This theme beautifully complements our longstanding commitment to the FISH! Philosophy, which centers on being kind and present in every interaction. Our dedicated staff embodies these values every day, extending kindness and presence to our students, their families, and each other. This collective effort contributes to our ultimate goal of making a lifelong positive impact.

Working together with our dedicated staff, parents, and school districts is at the heart of our mission. This crucial partnership allows us to discover the unique gifts and talents of each student and prepare them for a successful life beyond the classroom.

I invite you to explore our website and connect with us on social media. My door is always open, so please feel free to reach out with any questions.

With gratitude,

Julie Mower, M.A.Ed.
Executive Director

PS Please remember you can support our crucial programs and initiatives not covered by tuition by donating through our website’s DONATE page.

As we continue celebrating 35 years of excellence, we’re shining a light on one of the most heartfelt chapters in our history: the incredible partnership between home and school. From the earliest days, The Phoenix Center has believed that true progress happens when families and educators work hand-in-hand. That parent partnership philosophy came to life […]

35 Years of Excellence: The Power of Parent Partnership

Thank you to everyone who participated in our 2025 Gala Prize Drawing Raffle! Your support means the world to us, and every entry directly benefits the students of The Phoenix Center through the incredible work of the Friends of The Phoenix Center Foundation. Don’t forget, mark your calendars for The Phoenix Center’s 35th Anniversary Triple […]

The Phoenix Center is proud to celebrate 35 years of preparing students for life beyond the classroom. Over the next year, we’ll be sharing stories from our history and the moments that have shaped who we are today and continue to inspire our mission. A Leap of Faith Our co-founders, Dr. Geraldine A. Gibbia, Ph.D. […]

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