Oakland, NJ, may look like a sleepy borough from the outside, but it thrives on strong schools, compassionate animal care, and active civic engagement. Here’s a comprehensive look at Oakland NJ schools, animal shelters, and local government and churches that genuinely shape community life.

 Oakland NJ Schools & Education

The Oakland Public Schools NJ district serves K–8 through a network of quality institutions:

• Heights Elementary School (114 Seminole Ave) supports grades PK–5, offers a Gifted & Talented program, a robust PTO, and hosts seasonal events & music programs (Facebook, Wikipedia, Heights Elementary School). 
• Valley Middle School (71 Oak St) educates over 550 students in grades 6–8, with a 10:1 student–teacher ratio, strong academics, and active PTO involvement (Niche). 
• High school students attend Indian Hills High School via the Ramapo Indian Hills Regional District, known for its college prep and extracurricular strengths (Wikipedia). 
• Barnstable Academy (8 Wright Way) combines middle and high school education with personalized academic support, AP prep, and small class sizes (~1:6 ratio) (Niche).
  
• Early childhood options include Apple Montessori, CTC Academy, Ponds Valley Preschool, and enrichment via EAI Education (no formal data).
  

The Oakland NJ Board of Education and district website (oakland-nj.org/schools) offer details on employment, policies, PTO events, and public documents (Oakland NJ).

 Pets & Animal Services

Families with pets have excellent local resources:

• Ramapo Bergen Animal Refuge (2 Shelter Lane) is a well-established, no-kill shelter offering fully vaccinated, micro‑chipped pets for adoption, plus foster and volunteer programs (bestfriends.org, rbari.org).
  
• The shelter’s Instagram (@rbarishelter) and Petfinder profiles show frequent adoption and fundraising updates (instagram.com).
  
• Ramapo Valley Animal Hospital (GMB listings) provides comprehensive vet care—though no direct team info, its GMB page confirms ongoing activity.
  
• Pet Supplies Plus and JB Pet Supply offer pet foods, accessories, and local grooming staff—both maintain active inventories and store pages.
  

 Community, Government & Churches

Oakland’s civic and spiritual life complements its family-friendly reputation:

• The Borough of Oakland NJ manages municipal operations including taxes, recycling, and community events via its municipal court and tax collector’s office (oakland-nj.org).
  
• Oakland NJ Police Department, Fire Department, and volunteer rescue squads keep the town safe and connected through newsletters and social media.
  
• Faith communities are active: Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH Church) provides pastoral care, community outreach, and spiritual services while Ponds Reformed Church offers fellowship and youth programming.
  

FAQs

Q: What public schools serve Oakland NJ?
A: Heights Elementary, Valley Middle, and Indian Hills High (through regional district) make up the backbone of Oakland NJ schools.

Q: Where can I adopt a pet in Oakland?
A: Ramapo Bergen Animal Refuge offers vetted adoption options, fostering, and volunteer opportunities. Updates appear on Instagram and Petfinder.

Q: Is there a private school in Oakland NJ?
A: Yes—Barnstable Academy serves grades 6–12, with small class sizes and college prep programs.

Q: Where to buy pet supplies near Oakland NJ?
A: Pet Supplies Plus and JB Pet Supply stock food, toys, and grooming supplies locally.

Q: Who handles local government and public safety in Oakland NJ?
A: The Borough manages services via municipal court, police, fire, tax collector, and recycling programs, detailed at oakland-nj.org.