Bridge Guide: How to Enroll Your Child in a New Jersey Public School
A step-by-step guide for immigrant and multilingual families enrolling a child in school for the first time.
Welcome
Starting school in a new country can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it out alone.
Whether you're new to New Jersey, recently moved to another district, or enrolling your child for the very first time, this guide will walk you through the enrollment process one step at a time.
Every child has the right to a free public education, regardless of the language spoken at home or a parent's immigration status.
What You'll Learn
✔ Who can enroll
✔ What documents you'll need
✔ What happens if you're missing documents
✔ Language support available
✔ What to expect after enrollment
Step 1: Find Your School District
Every family attends school based on where they live.
Search online:
"Your town + Board of Education"
For example:
Belleville Board of Education
Newark Public Schools
Irvington Public Schools
Most districts have an online registration portal.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Most school districts ask for:
Proof of Identity
Parent or guardian ID
Passport
Driver's license
State ID
Child's Birth Certificate
If you don't have one, many districts accept alternative documentation while records are obtained.
Proof of Residency
Examples include:
Lease agreement
Mortgage statement
Utility bill
Bank statement
Government mail
Immunization Records
Schools will ask for your child's vaccination records.
If your child received vaccines in another country, the school nurse can help determine what documentation is needed.
Previous School Records (if available)
Examples:
Report cards
Transcripts
Withdrawal paperwork
Special education records
English learner records
If you don't have them, the new school can usually request them.
Step 3: Complete Registration
Many districts allow families to register online.
If you need help, you can usually visit the district's Registration Office.
Don't worry if English isn't your first language.
Step 4: Request Language Assistance
You have the right to:
An interpreter during meetings
Translated documents
Communication in your preferred language whenever possible
These services are provided at no cost.
Simply tell the school your preferred language.
Step 5: Language Assessment
If another language is spoken at home, your child may complete an English language assessment.
This is not a test to pass or fail.
It simply helps the school understand what language support your child may need.
Step 6: Meet the School
Before school starts, you may receive information about:
Teacher assignments
School supplies
Bus transportation
Orientation events
Parent portals
Lunch applications
Don't hesitate to ask questions.
Schools want families to feel welcomed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child attend school if I don't speak English?
Yes.
Schools must provide language assistance.
Can my child attend if we recently moved?
Yes.
Bring proof of your new address.
What if I don't have every document yet?
Contact the district's registration office.
Schools often work with families while missing documents are being obtained.
Does my immigration status affect my child's right to attend school?
Public schools cannot deny a child access to education based solely on a parent's or child's immigration status.
Helpful Resources
New Jersey Department of Education
Your local Board of Education
Local public library
Family Success Centers
Fundación CABA: Puentes de Esperanza
Need Help?
Every family's journey is different.
If you need help understanding school paperwork, navigating enrollment, or connecting with community resources, Fundación CABA is here to help build the bridge.
