HANOVER TOWNSHIP — The Calais School, located at 45 Highland Avenue in Whippany, is a state-approved, private special education school serving students in kindergarten through grade twelve plus with multiple learning disabilities. The school has received a grant of thirty thousand dollars from The Calais Foundation to replace outdated wall padding in its gymnasium.
The project has significantly enhanced student safety while refreshing one of the school’s most visible and frequently used spaces. As one of the busiest areas in the school, the Calais gymnasium serves as a central gathering place for school assemblies, performances, graduations, lunch periods, community events, and other activities that bring together more than two hundred students and staff, along with families and guests throughout the year.
Replacing the aging wall padding provides an important safety upgrade by helping reduce the risk of injury during physical activities while creating a more welcoming and functional environment for the entire school community. The new acoustic-grade padding also helps absorb sound, reducing noise levels and creating a calmer, more inclusive space that supports focus, communication, and learning.
“This project reflects our commitment to providing a safe, welcoming environment where every student can thrive,” said Calais School Executive Director John Cohrs. “We were especially excited to unveil the new look at this year’s graduation, allowing families and the entire Calais community to celebrate this milestone in a space that reflects the great pride we have in our school.”
The custom-designed wall padding features The Calais School logo and Cougar mascot in the school’s signature maroon and white colors. Beyond its practical purpose, the updated design fosters a sense of school pride and belonging for every student.
Funding for the project was made possible through The Calais Foundation, whose ongoing support of The Calais School helps provide resources and opportunities that enrich the educational experience for students.
