When families consider moving to Central New Jersey, one of the most common questions is: West Windsor vs Plainsboro schools — which is better?
The good news is that both towns share the West Windsor–Plainsboro Regional School District (WW-P), one of the top-ranked public school systems in New Jersey. However, school experience can still vary depending on location, grade levels, and neighborhood assignment.
This guide breaks down what families need to know.
Overview of the West Windsor–Plainsboro School District
The WW-P School District serves both towns and is consistently ranked among the best in the state for:
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Academic performance
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STEM programs
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Diversity
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College readiness
Key Facts:
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Serves K–12 students
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Known for strong math, science, and technology programs
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High graduation and college placement rates
West Windsor Schools
Best for: Families seeking newer schools and larger campuses
Elementary Schools Include:
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Dutch Neck Elementary
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Maurice Hawk Elementary
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Town Center Elementary
Middle Schools:
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Thomas R. Grover Middle School
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Community Middle School
High Schools:
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West Windsor–Plainsboro High School North
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West Windsor–Plainsboro High School South
What Families Love:
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Modern school buildings
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Strong test scores
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Wide variety of AP and honors courses
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Excellent extracurriculars and athletics
Things to Consider:
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Competitive academic environment
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Larger school sizes
Plainsboro Schools
Best for: Families looking for a close-knit community feel
Elementary Schools Include:
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Millstone River School (Upper Elementary)
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Wicoff Elementary
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Town Center Elementary (shared boundary areas)
Middle School:
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Community Middle School
High School:
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WW-P High School North (most Plainsboro students)
What Families Love:
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Smaller neighborhood feel
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Strong parental involvement
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Consistently high academic standards
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Excellent diversity and inclusion
Things to Consider:
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Fewer schools overall compared to West Windsor
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School assignment depends on specific neighborhood
Key Differences: West Windsor vs Plainsboro Schools
| Category | West Windsor | Plainsboro |
|---|---|---|
| District | WW-P Regional | WW-P Regional |
| School Size | Larger campuses | Slightly smaller |
| High School Options | North & South | Mostly North |
| Community Feel | Suburban, spread out | Tighter-knit |
| Home Styles | Newer developments | Mix of condos & single-family |
| Commute Access | Princeton Junction train | Route 1 & local access |
Which Is Better?
There is no “bad” choice.
Because both towns share the same district, the decision usually comes down to:
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Commute needs
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Home style preferences
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Budget
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Neighborhood school assignments
👉 The street you live on matters more than the town name when it comes to school zoning.
Buying a Home Based on School District?
School boundaries impact home values, demand, and resale. Before buying, it’s important to:
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Confirm school assignments
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Understand future boundary changes
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Compare neighborhood pricing within the same district
Thinking of Buying or Selling in West Windsor or Plainsboro?
If schools are part of your decision, I can help you:
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Identify neighborhoods by school assignment
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Compare home values by zone
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Understand resale trends
👉 Find out what your home is worth today
What Is My Home Worth?