As students started the 2023-24 school year on September 7, it was a time of new beginnings at Stepping Stones School for the children and staff.

The school year is off to a successful start as the children received new backpacks packed with supplies (thanks to generous donations by Prudential employees) and welcomed Little Molars Pediatric Dentistry to the school for lessons about dental care. Students visited the Turtle Back Zoo for the West Orange Elks Friendship Festival on October 2, and Stepping Stones hosted Back to School Night for families on October 5. The coming weeks will include the annual Fall Festival of pumpkin picking and outdoor activities, and a Trunk or Treat Halloween celebration.

The start to the school year also marks exciting changes for Stepping Stones leadership. Robin Moses, who has been with The Arc for more than 20 years, is the school’s new Director of Early Childhood and Education. Sundra “Sunny” Beal, who had previously been a Stepping Stones Assistant Principal, has returned as the new Principal of Stepping Stones. And Lisa Kin has come on board as the new Assistant Principal.

The Arc of Essex County’s Stepping Stones School is a Department of Education approved private school for students with disabilities serving children ages 3-10.  Located in Roseland, NJ, the school is designed to meet the developmental and educational needs of children with cognitive impairments such as Down syndrome and other students with similar educational and developmental needs. For more information, or to request a tour and assistance with an out-of-district placement, contact Robin Moses, Director of Early Childhood and Education at (862) 210-8781 or rmoses@arcessex.org.