Home > Find a School > River Academy

River Academy

River Academy helps students get back on track. Our school serves students in grades 7-11 who have faced behavior challenges in a traditional school environment. With a structured, nurturing environment focused on academics, behavior, and personal growth, your student can build the skills and confidence needed to return to a less-restrictive educational environment and thrive.

Contact Us

School Info

Address

800 Erie Street
Camden, NJ 08102

Hours
Mon – Fri 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Grades
6-12

Phone
856-305-5520

District
Mastery Charter Schools of Camden

  • School Calendar

    Download

In partnership with Mastery Charter School, our private day school helps students reset and refocus in smaller classrooms. River Academy supports students in grades 7-11 whose behavioral challenges have held them back academically and socially.

Based on nurturing a positive peer culture, River Academy utilizes a research-based behavioral modification model that cultivates pro-social behaviors and leadership skills through early interventions and tangible incentives. Our students learn to embrace personal accountability for behavioral and academic success in a positive environment that values safety, respect, teamwork, and high standards.

River Academy provides students and families with:

  • Smaller classroom environments
  • Individualized instruction and progress monitoring
  • Academic rigor through data-driven instruction
  • Life skills development
  • Opportunities to foster social skills
  • Ongoing check-ins after transitioning to a less-restrictive environment

    • By recognizing the unique value and talent of each student, building strong relationships with them and their families, and celebrating their daily successes, we help students who haven’t been able to participate in a regular classroom setting thrive at school, at home, and in their communities.

Discover What Sets River Academy Apart

Contact us

Our Learning Pathways

  • Transitional: Rebuilding and Re-engagement

    Transitional: Rebuilding and Re-engagement

    Students We Serve

    • Students removed from traditional settings due to behavioral or disciplinary challenges

    • Learners behind in coursework or credits who need targeted academic support

    • Students who show leadership potential but struggle with self-management and school engagement

    • Those preparing to return to a less restrictive setting with improved academic and behavioral readiness

    Alternative Education Student Profiles
  • Academic and Behavioral Support

    Academic and Behavioral Support

    We cultivate learning environments where instruction aligns with industry standards and district-specific curriculum requirements and ongoing support encourages prosocial behavior inside and outside the classroom.

  • Individualized Student Support

    Individualized Student Support

    We are passionate about fostering all facets of growth—academic, behavioral, and emotional—ensuring students are nurtured as a whole person and develop the skills they need to achieve rewarding futures.

  • Successful Transitions

    Successful Transitions

    Whether students are transitioning to a less restrictive environment, progressing toward graduation, or earning a certificate of completion, we help ensure they receive the individualized guidance and support they need to reach their full potential.

  • Tailored Programs

    Tailored Programs

    We carefully assess unique student needs and then craft personalized programs that allow each student to reach their full potential—academically, socially, and emotionally. Progress is continuously monitored, ensuring key milestones are met and celebrated.

Meet Our Team

With deep experience and dedication to helping all students discover their full potential, our leaders provide an unwavering commitment to supporting our teachers, therapists, and other staff while fostering relationships with families and district partners.

Contact Us

  • Wayne has been dedicated to educating youth since 2014 and has been a valued member of the SESI Schools community since the fall of 2017. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management from Widener University, where he also played collegiate football. Continuing his passion for leadership and education, Wayne completed his master’s degree in educational leadership in the spring of 2021. Outside of his professional responsibilities, he enjoys playing recreational sports, coaching, and spending quality time with his family.

What People Are Saying

Across our schools and programs, we’re proud to partner with families, educators, and district leaders to support student success. Hear firsthand how our collaborative approach, experienced staff, and commitment to individualized education are making a lasting impact in classrooms and communities.

  • Communication with partner districts is excellent.

    The school exemplifies strong leadership and a commitment to excellence in education. The administration fosters a supportive and dynamic environment, ensuring that students and staff are well-supported. Their communication with partner districts is excellent, promoting effective collaboration and ensuring that every student’s needs are met. The school’s IEP writing process is thorough, with clear and actionable feedback that directly contributes to student growth. The school consistently delivers strong results, with students achieving their academic and behavioral goals.

    Andrew M. | Vice Principal
View All SESI Testimonials

Events & Stories

  • School Events and Stories

    Pieces of Hope: Mural & Art for Autism Awareness
    Glynn County School of Scholars kicked off World Autism Month with its event, “Pieces of Hope: Mural & Art for Autism…
    April 4, 2025

View all School Resources

FAQ’s

  • SESI schools serve students with a wide range of special education needs, including emotional, behavioral, developmental, and learning challenges. We support students who need a more structured, individualized educational environment to succeed. Our schools are designed to help K–12 students with IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) reach their academic, social, and emotional goals through personalized instruction, positive behavior supports, and a safe, supportive setting.

  • Parents can expect a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment where their child’s individual needs are understood and addressed. SESI schools partner closely with families and school districts to provide customized academic instruction, behavior support, and related services. Regular communication, goal setting, and progress monitoring ensure that families stay informed and engaged in their child’s success.

  • The next step is to contact us to schedule a tour of our school. This will give you the opportunity to meet our team, explore our facilities, and learn more about how we can support your child.

Contact River Academy