Bernards High School
General Information – Bernards High School
About Bernards High School
Bernards High School, established in 1907, is a public high school located in Bernardsville, New Jersey. Serving grades 9 through 12, it is part of the Somerset Hills Regional School District, which includes Bernardsville, Far Hills, Peapack-Gladstone, and Bedminster. The school is situated at 25 Olcott Avenue, within walking distance from the main section of Bernardsville. As of the 2023–24 school year, Bernards High School enrolled 796 students and employed 66.8 full-time equivalent (FTE) teachers, resulting in a student-teacher ratio of 11.9:1. The school’s mascot is the Mountaineer, and its colors are crimson and white. The school is overseen by the New Jersey Department of Education and is known for its rigorous academic programs, extracurricular activities, and commitment to student development.
Contact Information
Address: 25 Olcott Avenue, Bernardsville, NJ 07924
Phone Number: (908) 204-1930
Email Address: info@shsd.org
School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1907 |
| School Type | Public High School |
| Grades Served | 9–12 |
| Enrollment | 796 students (2023–24) |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 11.9:1 |
| Mascot | Mountaineer |
| School Colors | Crimson and White |
| School District | Somerset Hills Regional School District |
Bernards High School Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | 66th out of 426 New Jersey high schools |
| National Ranking | Not nationally ranked |
Bernards High School Academics
Bernards High School Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- World Languages
- Physical Education and Health
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Technology and Engineering
- Special Education
- School Counseling
Bernards High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses:
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Biology
- AP Chemistry
- AP Physics
- AP U.S. History
- AP World History
- AP Spanish Language and Culture
- AP Studio Art
- AP Computer Science
- Honors Courses:
- Honors English
- Honors Mathematics
- Honors Science
- Honors Social Studies
- Elective Courses:
- Digital Media
- Graphic Design
- Music Theory
- Theatre Arts
- Photography
- Robotics
- Environmental Science
- Special Programs:
- Gifted and Talented Program
- ESL (English as a Second Language) Support
- Special Education Services
Online Learning
Bernards High School offers online learning opportunities through various platforms, allowing students to access supplementary materials, participate in virtual discussions, and complete assignments remotely. These online resources are integrated into the school’s curriculum to enhance learning experiences and provide flexibility for students.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1290 |
| ACT | 29 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Bernards High School boasts a high graduation rate of 86%, reflecting the school’s commitment to student success and academic achievement. The retention rate is also strong, with the majority of students progressing to the next grade level each year.
Bernards High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
While specific GPA ranges are not publicly disclosed, the average SAT score of 1290 and ACT score of 29 suggest that admitted students typically perform well academically.
Bernards High School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Zoned Students | 100% |
| Out-of-District Students | Varies |
Bernards High School Application Requirements
Students residing within the Somerset Hills Regional School District are automatically enrolled. For out-of-district students, application requirements may include proof of residency, previous academic records, and standardized test scores. Specific requirements can vary and should be confirmed with the school’s administration.
Application Process
- Complete Application Form: Fill out the necessary application forms provided by the school.
- Submit Documentation: Provide required documents such as proof of residency and academic records.
- Attend Interview (if applicable): Some applicants may be required to attend an interview.
- Await Decision: The school will notify applicants of their admission status.
Bernards High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | Varies annually |
| Notification of Admission | Varies annually |
| Orientation for New Students | August |
Essay Prompt
Out-of-district applicants may be required to submit a personal statement or essay as part of the application process. The prompt typically asks applicants to discuss their academic interests, extracurricular activities, and reasons for wanting to attend Bernards High School.
Bernards High School Scholarships
Bernards High School offers various scholarships to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and are awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding achievements and contributions.
Bernards High School Tuition and Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Public Enrollment | Free |
| Activity Fees | Varies |
| Technology Fees | Varies |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 47% |
| Male | 53% |
| White | 66.7% |
| Hispanic | 22.7% |
| Asian | 6.2% |
| Multiracial | 2.8% |
| African American | 1.1% |
| Native American | 0.5% |
| International | 0% |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 10.8% of students at Bernards High School are eligible for free lunch, and 2.5% are eligible for reduced-cost lunch. The school provides support services for students with disabilities, including individualized education programs (IEPs) and accommodations to ensure equitable access to education.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 796 |
| International Students | 0 |
| Students with IEPs | 10.8% |
School Diversity
Bernards High School prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The student body represents a variety of cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, enriching the educational experience for all. The school celebrates this diversity through cultural events, inclusive curricula, and programs that promote understanding and respect among students.
Average Earnings
While specific data on alumni earnings is not available, the strong academic foundation provided by Bernards High School, coupled with its college-preparatory programs, positions graduates for success in higher education and future careers. Many alumni pursue degrees at prestigious colleges and universities, leading to a wide range of professional opportunities.
Bernards High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Bernards High School comprises dedicated educators who are committed to student success. The staff includes teachers, counselors, administrators, and support personnel who work collaboratively to create a positive and effective learning environment.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at Bernards High School bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their teaching. Many hold advanced degrees in their respective fields and participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with educational best practices. Their expertise contributes to the school’s reputation for academic excellence.
Bernards High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Bernards High School does not provide on-campus housing. Students commute from the surrounding communities, including Bernardsville, Far Hills, Peapack-Gladstone, and Bedminster. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, a gymnasium, and athletic fields.
Transportation
The Bernards Township Board of Education provides transportation to students who reside more than two miles from the school. Bus routes are assigned based on students’ home addresses, and schedules are communicated prior to the start of the school year.