The Program
Holmestead school is in session from 8:15 a.m. to 2:15 PM, daily. Students are required to take six courses, on a rotating schedule. This procedure minimizes anxiety about facing the same courses at the same time each day.
Students are required to fulfill state-mandated course requirements. In addition, many electives are designed to provide a well-rounded curriculum. Students are encouraged to take an active part in the planning of their schedules, by selecting courses from the approximately 45 offered at Holmstead. These course selections are compiled by the guidance counselor in an effort to predict improvement, promote success, and increase motivation.
Incorporated into the school day is a one-hour required class called recreational arts, in which students fulfill physical education mandates and participate in organized activities. These include physical education classes such as basketball, soccer, yoga, boxing, pilates, walking, golf, bowling, gaming, music, art, cooking classes, and photography. College preparation skills as well as career development experiences are also offered.
Holmstead School is in compliance with Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 which prohibits discrimination by reason of race, color, sex, Creed, or national origin.
Courses of Study
- English
- Math
- History
- Science (Lab)
- Related Arts
- Honors & AP Courses Offered Upon Approval
- Foreign Language
- Physical Education/Health
- Humanities
- Fine/Performing Arts
Assessments
NJSLA and NJGPA testing is facilitated on site at the Holmstead School. PSAT SAT and ACT Testing transition planning and College counseling are also provided.
Counseling Services
Therapeutic intervention on the part of highly skilled therapists enables Holmstead students to address social and emotional difficulties and develop coping skills. Students participate in individual psychotherapy and group counseling. The staff includes both male and female therapists who afford students the opportunity to work with the professional with whom he/she/they relate most comfortably and productively.
Individual counseling techniques include not only traditional therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but also some students may benefit from specific therapies such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Clinical interventions for students who are struggling to get to school on a regular basis are also addressed through monthly parent support groups, which are conducted in the evening and are facilitated by Holmstead clinicians. These groups address issues of concern regarding adolescent interaction with family, peers, school, and the community. Group therapy includes not only traditional group therapy approaches but also social skills groups, a mindfulness/relaxation training group, and a substance abuse group.
