As part of our yearlong celebration of 35 years of excellence, we’re highlighting the programs that have shaped The Phoenix Center’s legacy of innovation, opportunity, and student success. One of the most defining milestones in our early history came in 1993, when TPC launched what would become one of its most impactful programs to date.
A Statewide First
In 1993, The Phoenix Center became the first private school in the state to receive approval for a Supported Employment Program. At the time, this marked a bold and forward-thinking step that recognized the importance of real-world experience, independence, and employment readiness for students who needed a specialized, supportive learning environment.
Today, this program is known as Work-Based Learning, and it remains a cornerstone of how TPC prepares students for “life beyond the classroom”.
Real-World Opportunity
The Work-Based Learning Program engages students ages 16–21, helping them build essential employment skills through structured, hands-on experiences. In 2025 alone, 65 students are participating in the program.
Students gain practical experience by completing administrative and vocational tasks in our on-site vocational room, including:
- Photo copying and collating materials
- Processing mailings
- Organizing and filing documents
Beyond the classroom, students also participate in paid and volunteer employment opportunities at local partnering businesses such as Chevy’s, Felina Restaurant, Rocky’s Pizza, and the Nutley Public Library. These community-based experiences allow students to apply their skills in real workplace settings while building confidence, responsibility, and independence.
More Than a Program
Work-Based Learning reflects decades of growth, strong community partnerships, and a deep commitment to helping students gain meaningful, real-world experience. It is a powerful example of how education at The Phoenix Center extends beyond academics to support the whole student: socially, emotionally, and vocationally.
By blending skill development with hands-on opportunity, the program helps students envision a future that includes purpose, contribution, and employment as they prepare for life beyond the classroom.
A Legacy That Continues
More than 30 years after its launch, Work-Based Learning remains a vital part of The Phoenix Center’s transition services and a testament to TPC’s leadership in special education. It continues to evolve, adapt, and expand just as our students do.
To learn more about the program and how it supports students and community partners, view our Work-Based Learning Program overview here.
This is the third story in our yearlong series celebrating 35 years of excellence at The Phoenix Center. If you missed our earlier stories, we invite you to explore how this journey began and how our community has grown along the way:
Stay tuned as we continue sharing the programs, people, and milestones that define our mission and our future.