Specialized high school for students with autism, learning differences, and ADHD in grades 8-12
Pillar High School (formerly Horizon High School) in Livingston, NJ is a specialized program designed for students with autism spectrum disorder, learning differences, and ADHD in grades 8-12. The school uses a functional, transdisciplinary approach where everyday activities—from self-care skills to peer interaction and community engagement—are transformed into personalized learning opportunities tailored to each student's unique abilities and needs.
Students benefit from a structured environment with an average class size of 8 and a low student-to-teacher ratio that supports individualized attention. The curriculum integrates Common Core Standards with specialized instruction in Language Arts, Math, and Science, enhanced by educational technology such as adapted computers, interactive whiteboards, and iPads. This approach ensures that students receive both academic and life skills training necessary for successful transitions to adulthood.
The school prepares students for post-secondary life through job training, placement assistance, and community integration activities. Tuition is fully covered by the local school district, and the program accepts students on a rolling basis with a 95% acceptance rate. Pillar High School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools and the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools, and offers summer school to support continued learning.
| School Type | Special Education School |
| Year Founded | 1953 |
| Tuition Notes | $0 - local school district covers tuition. |
| Total Students | 77 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 10 |
| Average Class Size | 8 |
| Grades Offered | 8-12 |
| Admission Deadline | None / Rolling |
| Acceptance Rate | 95 |
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 51 |
| School Memberships | Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools · New Jersey Association of Independent Schools · ASAH Private Special Education |
| Religious Affiliations | Nonsectarian |
| School Calendar | pillarschoolsnj.org/events_calendar/high-school-calendar |
| Summer School Offered | Yes |