Garfield Park Academy is a division of the Therapeutic Learning Center, Inc. In 1992, known only as The Therapeutic Learning Center (TLC), the school opened its doors and began accepting students in the beginning of 1993.
Conveniently located in the heart of Willingboro Township in Burlington County, NJ, the Therapeutic Learning Center began with one student and occupied one rented classroom in the Garfield Park Elementary School.
Before long, enrollment jumped to 75 and more classrooms were rented from the Willingboro Township School District.
We offer a positive and friendly atmosphere where students can learn and advance their education.
We believe that our therapeutic program, combined with traditional academics and preparation for college or the vocations enhances the chances of students with emotional and social challenges to succeed in an educational environment and in life.
Garfield Park Academy is approved by the New Jersey Department of Education as an Alternative School.
The Clinic is also approved to operate under the approval of the New Jersey Department of Education.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Kindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 140 students
- Average class size: 9 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
Garfield Park Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New Jersey for:
Category
Attribute
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-12
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
140 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
83%
State avg.: 39%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
23 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
9 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline for Garfield Park Academy?
The application deadline for Garfield Park Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse Garfield Park Academy. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

A Parent's Guide To Understanding High School Teaching Methods
This comprehensive guide helps parents navigate the various teaching methods used in today's high school classrooms. By understanding these approaches, you'll be better equipped to support your teen's learning journey, communicate effectively with teachers, and create a complementary learning environment at home.

February 08, 2025
Social Emotional Learning: Education's Hidden SymphonyA musician's perspective on Social Emotional Learning reveals how this educational framework orchestrates success through five essential emotional competencies.

January 24, 2025
A Roadmap For Starting A Private SchoolUse this roadmap as a set of talking points with your trusted mentors and professionals to start the private school of your dreams. You're not alone. Over the years, hundreds of folks like you have had the same dream. From Quintilian to Maria Montessori to Lucy Madeira Wing, visionary educators have established schools to teach according to their beliefs and methodologies.