Newark, NJ — Under the visionary leadership of Superintendent Leόn, Newark Public Schools hosted its Annual Spring High School Redesign Strategy Partners Meeting. This year, the highly impactful gathering consisted of over 150 partners from diverse sectors including corporations, universities, and local, state, and national agencies. The meeting served as a platform to showcase the District's pioneering High School Redesign Strategy and honor the collaborative partnerships influencing positive transformation across the District's educational landscape.

During the session, principals from the District's high schools showcased the impact of the Redesign Strategy on their schools. The presentations described the pivotal components of the redesign through a comprehensive review of school plans with their flourishing partnerships. These showcases underscored the innovative strategies and united endeavors that nurture a culture of excellence throughout their respective schools.

Some key highlights included:

Barringer High School Principal Natasha Pared emphasized its commitment to shaping future leaders through its Alumni Association and a holistic educational vision. Pared described the "Portrait of a Graduate of Barringer" as embodying qualities like lifelong learning, citizenship, critical thinking, and ethics.

University High School Principal Genique Flournoy-Hamilton celebrated a pioneering collaboration with Montclair University's Red Hawks Rising Teacher Academy, aimed at nurturing the next generation of educators. Dr. Roberts from Montclair University expressed admiration for Newark Public Schools' innovative efforts, expressing a desire to teach within the District.

Principal Devonne DeNose of Newark's Arts High School highlighted the nation's first Arts High School's contributions to Newark's educational redesign, expressing gratitude to partners for their support.

Margret Murray, principal of American History High School, shared how the school's Redesign Strategy and partnerships empower students to become leaders and change-makers in their communities, emphasizing their communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills.

Principal Akbar Cook of Westside High School showcased the school's Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, including Entrepreneurial Studies and Urban Farming, through a compelling video featuring student testimonials. Guests were treated to "Rider Heat Hot Sauce" produced by Westside students as part of the Business Academy.

Kyle Thomas, principal of Weequahic High School, highlighted the school's scholarship opportunities, enabling students to pursue higher education at prestigious institutions with support from the community.

Students across all Newark high schools have benefited from scholarship opportunities, with graduates attending renowned higher education institutions, from ivy leagues, historically black colleges and universities, to various trade schools, state and private colleges and universities. 

"I was so impressed with the accomplishments and enthusiasm of both the teachers and students.  Every school had a successful story to tell, and the national notoriety they have been receiving is impressive.  What I love the most is hearing and seeing the knowledge and skills these students gained, and the skills that can provide a lifelong roadmap for their lives. Students with direction are now motivated to face challenges and overcome obstacles – all of them’.   - Barbara DeMarco, PhD, Senior Associate Dean for Education at Rutgers University

"I witnessed the power of community - uniting the principals, staff, and partners to elevate school programs. Together, we forged a collective commitment to innovate, collaborate, and transform education for the betterment of the students. Under the guidance of our Superintendent, Roger León, I have witnessed exemplary leadership that inspires, empowers, and drives positive change throughout our educational community. His vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to student success truly makes him a beacon of excellence in the District." – Jerry Wonda, Te-Bass Music Inc.

"The partner's meeting hosted by the superintendent and his team was truly inspiring. Hearing from all the principals about their collaborative efforts reinforced the essence of what we do with our high schools.  Our ability to expand this important work was undeniable. We look forward to stretching and expanding our district-university partnership efforts."  - Dr. Angela Garretson, Chief Government and Community Relations Officer at NJIT

"It was a great opportunity to see how the Newark district is moving forward with helping all the kids, and it was great seeing how involved all the partners are. As far as the United team is concerned, we will continue to support Newark Public Schools for years!" - Carlos Rivas, Manager of Airport Operations and Customer Service at United Airlines

Superintendent León expressed gratitude to all attendees and emphasized the collective efforts of principals, educators, industry leaders, community partners, and post-secondary institutions for providing Newark students with diverse opportunities for academic and personal growth.

Amongst the dedicated district partners, industry leaders, and distinguished guests were Ambassador Shabazz, Allan Houston Legacy Foundation, Aspire NJ, Beth Israel Hospital, Building to Teach, Dirty Soles Footwear Group, Chase Bank, Construction Compliance, CVS Workforce, DEA, Essex County Superintendent Zarra, Dr. Jamila Davis, Essex County College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Greater Newark Conservancy, Green Light Fund Greater Newark, Jerry Wonda T-Bass Music Production, Kean University, Look Good Feel Good Program Marco Hall Design, Montclair University, NBOE President Council, NBOE Vice-President Haynes, NJIT, NJELSA, Nomadd Group, NJ Pathways, NY/NJ Port Authority, Office of the SAC, Parsons School of Design, PSE&G, Reh & Main Design and Development, Rizz, Ink Customz, Robert "Don-Pooh" Cummins, Rutgers University, SSR Consulting Liberty Dental, Spanish Broadcasting System, Turner Construction Company, and United Airlines.

The Newark Board of Education looks forward to ongoing and future collaborations and initiatives that will further enhance the educational landscape of Newark and empower the next generation of leaders.