Hey I'm in NJ too I would say continue looking for a driving school until you find the one that fits you. Yeah, they're not cheap but it's worth it. Plus you'll feel extra confident when it's time for the road test, you get to use the driving school car and the instructor will go with you.

During my road test hand over hand steering was very important. I didn't do it properly for one turn and the guy lectured me about it and told me he would cut me a break because everything else was okay. Make sure you have it down 100%.