A Lifetime of Teaching, A Lasting Impact at East Mountain

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For more than four decades, Edith Battle has dedicated her life to helping students learn, grow and overcome challenges. Now closing out her fourth year at East Mountain School (EMS), she continues to bring compassion, experience and unwavering commitment to every student she teaches.

Certified as a teacher of students with disabilities and holding a master of education degree, Edith’s career began in North Carolina, where she earned the Governor’s Humanitarian Award in Teaching. After relocating to New Jersey, she spent 30 years serving students in a variety of educational leadership roles, including classroom teacher, instructional coach and director of a high school alternative program. During her time in Newark Public Schools, she was honored as Teacher of the Year.

Although she retired from Newark in 2020, stepping away from education didn’t last long.

“I am thrilled to be part of an organization that shares my values and commitment to supporting children and adolescents with behavioral health challenges,” Edith says.

Her passion for the work is deeply personal. As the parent of a neurodivergent son who experienced years of misdiagnosis before ultimately finding success, Edith understands firsthand how life-changing the right support system can be.

“I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of tailored support and strategies for each child,” she says.

Today, Edith teaches seventh and eighth grade students at EMS, where she says the most rewarding part of her role is building relationships with each student and recognizing their individuality.

“I am constantly learning from them, and their perspectives on the world are a valuable source of inspiration,” Edith shares.

Established in 1981, EMS is operated by Hackensack Meridian Health Carrier Clinic and is a State of New Jersey accredited middle and high school serving students in grades 7 - 12 who benefit from additional behavioral and emotional support in their learning environment. Located on a sprawling 100-acre campus in the foothills of the Sourland Mountains in Belle Mead, EMS serves students with special education and intensive therapeutic programming, creating opportunities for healing, confidence-building and long-term success.

EMS also offers an Extended School Year Program during the sumer. The 2026 session will run from July 7 through August 14 and is open to both current and new students in grades 7-12. The six-week program blends structured academic support with engaging therapeutic activities to help students strengthen core skills, maintain learning momentum and prepare for the fall 2026 school year.

Click here to learn more about East Mountain School, its summer program and how individualized therapeutic support helps students thrive.

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