[NEWARK, NJ, October 18, 2018] East Side High School graduate Grisselle Ponce came home to Newark for the debut of the acclaimed movie, “SHINE.” Ms. Ponce, a 1994 graduate from East Side, stars in the movie and choreographed the dance sequences in the movie as well.
The movie SHINE focuses on community and family struggles with gentrification in the old neighborhood with a focus on preserving the arts and culture of the neighborhood. The movie debuted at CityPlex 12 on October 5 with a Red Carpet list of local and state elected officials, students, friends and supporters. The red carpet included Superintendent Roger León, Board Chairperson Josephine C. Garcia, Mayor Baraka, Senator Ruiz, Councilmen Ramos and Quintana and actor David Zayas.
Superintendent León said, “We are here to congratulate Ms. Ponce and to serve as a reminder that Newark students can do anything and everything. Whatever your hearts desire, you should know that you can begin that journey right here in Newark Public Schools.”