Care Plus NJ Expands Paradigm Therapeutic Middle School to Serve Fifth Grade Students

Expansion strengthens early intervention and therapeutic education services for students with emotional and behavioral health needs

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (June 22, 2026) –  Care Plus NJ has announced the expansion of Paradigm Therapeutic Middle School to include fifth grade beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. The school, now serving students in grades five through eight, builds on the success of the Paradigm School System, which has provided specialized educational, clinical, and therapeutic support for students with emotional and behavioral health needs since 2018.

The addition of fifth grade extends the continuum of care available through Paradigm, giving students access to its integrated therapeutic and educational model at an earlier stage. Students referred by their home school districts can now enter the program prior to middle school, allowing for earlier intervention and more consistent, coordinated support when academic, social, and emotional challenges often become more pronounced. 

As an extension of Care Plus NJ's Division of School-Based Programs, Paradigm was established to serve students identified by their districts as benefiting from a more emotionally supportive educational setting. Students are referred by their home school districts and have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that identify the need for additional clinical and behavioral support. The school serves students experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, school avoidance, emotional regulation difficulties, and prior hospitalizations, while providing individualized academic instruction, counseling services, and behavioral supports.

"Adding fifth grade allows us to support students during a critical stage of development, when the right interventions can have a lasting impact," said Dominick Gliatta, principal of Paradigm Middle School. "By expanding our program, we're able to help students build confidence, strengthen coping skills, and develop the foundation they need for long-term academic and personal success."

As a New Jersey Department of Education-approved private school for students with disabilities, Paradigm integrates therapeutic and educational services into a coordinated model designed to address each student's academic, behavioral, and emotional needs. Educators, clinicians, support staff, and administrators work collaboratively to ensure students receive individualized support aligned with their IEP goals.

The expansion strengthens the Paradigm School System's continuum of care, creating a seamless pathway for students from upper elementary school through high school. Together, Paradigm Therapeutic Middle School and Paradigm Therapeutic High School provide specialized educational, clinical, and therapeutic services designed to help students succeed academically, build resilience, and develop the skills needed to reach their full potential.

Paradigm School System's mission is to provide an educational and therapeutic environment that inspires and empowers students to leverage their strengths so they can develop and realize their life goals.

For more information or to make a district referral, visit www.paradigmtherapeuticdayschool.org or email msreferrals@paradigm.school.

About Paradigm School System

Paradigm School System, a subsidiary of Care Plus NJ, provides specialized therapeutic education for students who benefit from an emotionally supportive learning environment. Through an integrated model that combines academics, clinical services, behavioral supports, and transition planning, Paradigm helps students develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in school and in life. The school system includes Paradigm Therapeutic Middle School and Paradigm Therapeutic High School, serving students across northern New Jersey.

About Care Plus NJ

Care Plus NJ is a leading nonprofit provider of integrated behavioral health, substance use disorder, and primary care services for adults and children across northern New Jersey. As one of the first Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers in the U.S., Care Plus NJ sets the gold standard in delivering accessible, high-quality care regardless of diagnosis or insurance status. The organization serves over 12,000 individuals annually, offering a full continuum of behavioral health and social support services that empower people to reach their full potential. Care Plus NJ works to improve the overall well-being of the communities it serves.