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.
Personalized Programs
Customized Programming Individualized for Each Student
Planning for the Future
Preparing Our Students for Life Beyond the Classroom
Enriching Our Students' Lives
Enabled by Your Direct Support and Contribution
Working Together
Bringing staff, professionals, parents & districts together
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 begin our 36th 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 Appreciating Every Voice, Celebrating Every Victory. This focus highlights our deep gratitude for one another, our students, and their families, while honoring every step and accomplishment along the way. The Phoenix Center’s strength lies in our rich diversity of ideas, backgrounds, and experiences. Every educator, staff member, student, and family brings something invaluable to the table. We are deeply committed to listening closely, valuing everyone’s perspective, and ensuring everyone feels heard and included as they bravely reach for and achieve their goals.
Growth isn’t just marked by giant milestones—it’s built on daily wins. Whether it’s a breakthrough moment with a student, the successful implementation of a new strategy, or supporting each other through a tough day, we are making a conscious effort to recognize and honor progress, big or small. This theme beautifully complements our longstanding commitment to the FISH! Philosophy, as our dedicated staff extends kindness, respect, and presence to our students, their families, and each other every day in our collective effort to make 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.
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.
Julie Mower Shares Insight on the Importance of Extended School Year Programs
Julie Mower, Executive Director of The Phoenix Center, shares why Extended School Year programs are essential for students with autism and multiple disabilities and how continued summer support can help prevent skill regression.
The Phoenix Center Hosts Alumni Night
The Phoenix Center welcomed alumni back for a special Alumni Night in Clifton, giving graduates the opportunity to reconnect with friends, strengthen social skills, and continue building meaningful relationships through the school’s Graduate Support Program.
NorthJersey.com Features TPC’s Beth Miele: Read Her Story
Beth Miele of The Phoenix Center was recently featured on NorthJersey.com with a powerful opinion piece reflecting on the lessons she has learned during 35 years of teaching students with autism.
