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I have read the existing discussions on this board on this subject but some are quite old and I wanted to get a fresh perspective. We like Glen Ridge and interested in the community aspect of it and people living there. I know there is neither a synagogue nor a JCC in town. Does that mean it has a very small/non-existent jewish population? We are not looking for an overly Jewish town but don't want our kids to be the only ones (or "ones" of 5) in the whole school (the way I grew up). I would appreciate first hand experiences and information - not just perception. Thank you!
That’s mostly because it’s such a small town (few blocks wide). It is a very old town with a history of being very white and Protestant. You won’t even find a Roman Catholic Church, but that doesn’t mean the town lacks Roman Catholics or Italians. There was just never land to build it after the town was developed at the turn of the century. There’s a synagogue in Bloomfield and two in Montclair. The town is still fairly white (you could see demos in city data - 83%), however is more diverse by way of religion/background. I would say it is largely Anglo/Irish/Italian and a fair share of a Jewish population - Maybe 10-15% if I had to guess.
Not Jewish so I can’t speak to JCC activities etc There is definitely a Jewish community is Montclair (which is in your backyard)
Thank you for your reply. I know there are synagogues in the surrounding areas. My concern was more about kids feeling somewhat isolated in school (not being able to share certain experiences, etc). Do you have any thoughts on that?
Also, is there a great deal of emphasis on sports in high school? Of course sports are important but I would like to avoid the star-athlete culture and hope to find a place where achievements off the field are considered just as cool. Thank you!
Hi -- following-up on this thread, what did you end up finding out about Glen Ridge? We'd love to know more!
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