News

Newark Launches Student Driven Public Service Announcements: NPS Cares

The Newark Board of Education (NBOE) remains committed to exploring novel and inventive approaches to positively impact the lives of students and families. It is with immense enthusiasm that the District unveils its latest endeavor, NPS Cares.

NPS Cares is an innovative initiative that aims to effectively merge education and entertainment. NBOE worked collaboratively with various staff and students to develop eleven lively and uplifting Public Service Announcements (PSAs) that are 30 seconds in duration. These PSAs tackle significant subjects in a light-hearted and age-appropriate manner. The topics covered encompass a wide range of critical areas such as:

  • Academic Support
  • Diversity and Inclusion
  • Anti-Drugs/Vaping/Alcoholism
  • Anti-Bullying
  • Mental Health
  • Parent Engagement
  • Attendance
  • Joy of Reading
  • Summer School
  • Graduation
  • Newark Enrolls

These subjects are crucial and require creative and captivating approaches to effectively engage students and families. NBOE will continue its collective efforts to influence and construct a more promising and optimistic future for the Newark community.

Click here to view PSA Announcements.

NBOE Continues to Witness Positive Trends Across the City

Elizabeth A Haden, Director of Student Enrollment and Newark Enrolls with Enrollment staff Juliana Aleandre and Ivelisse Woodson
Elizabeth A Haden, Director of Student Enrollment and Newark Enrolls with Enrollment staff Juliana Aleandre and Ivelisse Woodson

Enrollment Increase
The District’s enrollment continues to increase and is a testament to NBOE’s commitment to providing quality education and fostering a conducive learning environment. The District remains dedicated to maintaining this upward trajectory and achieving even greater success in the future.

All Schools Fair
This year's event is scheduled to occur on Saturday, November 4, 2023, from 10am to 2pm, at Newark Vocational High School. The District eagerly anticipates exhibiting all NBOE schools and collaborating with participating Charter/Private school partners to maximize this in-person opportunity to interact with staff, other parents, and students. The Newark Enrolls application for the 2024-2025 school year will commence on November 4th at 3pm. Students attending non-NBOE preschool sites and all 8th grade students throughout the city are encouraged to attend the All Schools Fair and should apply. This population can select up to 8 choices on the Newark Enrolls application through February 2, 2024. Students in 8th grade are welcome to attend any of the High School Open House events, but must register through the school’s website. Click here for details.

Visit www.newarkenrolls.org to learn more!

Enrollment Calendar
November 4, 2023 School Fair and Application Window Opens at 3:00pm
February 2, 2024 Application Window Closes at 11:59pm
February 9, 2024 NBOE 8th Graders Admissions Test - Additional Date 2/16
February 10, 2024 Non-NBOE 8th Graders Admissions Test - Additional Date 2/17
April 18, 2024 Match Letter Release (Tentative)

Newark Board of Education Showcases Healthy Back-to-School Lunch Program

Oliver Street Elementary School student at lunch time.
Oliver Street Elementary School student at lunch time.

On September 14, 2023, the Newark Board of Education and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, USDA, state and local officials gathered at Oliver Street School to showcase the student meal program for the upcoming school year. The District highlighted back-to-school lunch and provided an opportunity to observe and learn about the program.

Officials were treated to a showcase of the food services staff's outstanding job during lunchtime. Students were offered a menu that featured beef hot dogs, whole wheat rolls, baked beans, corn on the cob, and fresh fruit.

The Newark Board of Education is the largest school district in New Jersey, serving more than 22,000 meals in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program daily. The District also participates in the Department of Defense (DOD) Direct Delivery, which brings fresh produce into Newark schools.

"Elayier Pickett, Newark Board of Education Food Services Interim Director, emphasized empowering students to make healthy choices for better classroom performance and lifelong well-being. "It's important for them to understand that eating foods with high nutritional value can enhance their classroom performance and lead to a healthier lifestyle."

Superintendent Roger León said, "I am truly delighted with the outstanding work our food services program in the District has accomplished. With the support from the state, we are committed to nourishing our students' bodies and minds, and we hope to see them continue to grow and thrive."

For more information on the state's school lunch program, please visit:

https://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/fn/childadult/school.html

For more information on The Newark Board of Education Food Services Department, please visit: https://newark.apppresser.com/departments/sba/operations/food-services/

Introducing Nelson Mandela Elementary School: Where Dreams Take Flight Towards Leadership through STEM Education

Nelson Mandela Elementary School Pre-K student on the first day of classes.
Nelson Mandela Elementary School Pre-K student on the first day of classes.

Newark, NJ — The Newark Board of Education is excited to announce the opening of Nelson Mandela Elementary School in the Central Ward, a beacon of educational innovation and empowerment in our community. In its inaugural year, the school will serve students in Prekindergarten through Third Grade, growing one grade level each year up to Grade 8. As a district committed to nurturing young minds, the school’s focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education will pave the way for students to soar as future leaders.

As the 9th new school unveiled by Superintendent Roger Leόn since taking the helm of Newark Public Schools, he continues to honor his commitment to provide families with a variety of options as defined in the 10-Year Strategic Plan, The Next Decade 2020-30.

“We will unleash potential, ignite curiosity, and cultivate critical thinking skills through hands-on experiences,” said Superintendent Leόn. “And by engaging with real-world challenges and cutting-edge technologies, students at Nelson Mandela Elementary School will develop the problem-solving abilities and creativity necessary to excel in the modern world,” he added.

Dreams will take flight in the school's namesake, Nelson Mandela, a symbol of resilience and unwavering dedication to positive change. Just as President Mandela inspired a nation, the school aims to inspire students to dream big, to reach for the stars, and to believe in their ability to make a difference in Newark and beyond.

Board President Norton said, "We can change the lives of our students, their families, and community through education. With this philosophy at the core, the Nelson Mandela Elementary School will empower students to turn their dreams into reality”.

Recognizing that education is a collective endeavor, a strong community school partnership is essential for nurturing well-rounded individuals. The Nelson Mandela Elementary School is dedicated to working closely with parents, local businesses, and community organizations to create a supportive and enriching learning environment. Together, they will shape the future leaders of our community.

The inauguration of Nelson Mandela Elementary School marks an exciting chapter in the educational landscape of the district and our city. We invite parents, students, educators, and community members to join us in our mission to nurture young minds, inspire leadership, and propel dreams toward realization.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Nancy J. Deering, Acting Communications Director
ndeering@nullnewark.apppresser.com

About Newark Public Schools
The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676. The District currently enrolls over 39,000 students in 63 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened 9 new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.