Press Releases

Make Weequahic High School Your #1 Choice

WEQ

[NEWARK NJ, January 13, 2022]  This is the sixth Newark comprehensive high school we are featuring in this series as the next few weeks brings an end to the enrollment process in Newark for next school year.

“Weequahic High School (WHS) is featured last in this series of the six comprehensive high schools in Newark because of its historic and profound impact on education in the United States,” shared Superintendent León.  “Many people are unaware or hope we are not reminded that schools in Newark lead this nation.  We have a long way to go, but we are heading in that direction,” he emphasized.

“At Weequahic High School, our vision is that Achievement is Realistic, Obtainable, & Infinite,”explains WHS Principal Kyle Thomas, a veteran public-school educator who was appointed by Superintendent León to lead this prestigious Southward High School in August 2021. “We will remain dedicated in all of our collective efforts to go above and beyond systemic oppression to serve and operate with the collegial mindset of being the most tangible resource and support system for the young minds we educate, remaining deeply rooted in strong cultural pride, core values and guiding principles for achievement.”

Principal Thomas’ roots in the community run deep. His father, Gerald Thomas was a 1967 graduate of WHS and before taking the helm, Mr. Thomas served for several years as Principal at nearby George Washington Carver and Bruce Street School for the Deaf.  “The youth of our community are the greatest and they will receive a world class education at our school,” said Principal Thomas. “Our intellectual prominence will catapult our young minds to have infinite power to achieve great success.”

With this in mind, the mission of WHS is to Motivate, Inspire, Empower & Teach. “Through the virus, through the setbacks, through the shut downs, we persevere, we rise, we come together,” explains WHS sophomore student Mirabel Chukwuma. “If there is anything we know how to do, it’s overcome obstacles and conquer adversity and that’s Indian Pride!”

The school’s daily quest is to passionately provide a safe, culturally responsive and rigorous learning environment that builds on knowledge of self, strengthens character, cultivates ingenuity and fosters youth leadership to ensure that all of our students are prepared for college and/or career pathway advancements with diverse academic, social and critical thinking skills necessary for global success, to develop self-esteem and self-advocacy skills.

“Weequahic has a long tradition of producing students who excel in life,” says Myra Lawson, President of the Weequahic High School Alumni Association and 1979 graduate. “This is due to great faculty and staff who push students to do and to be their best.  All the time my fellow alumni appreciated our time at Weequahic for giving us the motivation to become lifelong learners, the ability to think critically, and the drive to be productive members of society.”

Here is a focus on Weequahic High School:

Academics and College & Career Readiness

  • The school currently offers Advanced Placement and Honors courses.
  • The school partners with Montclair State University, Rutgers-Newark and Essex County College to offer dual enrollment pre-college courses where students earn college credit for courses while still at WHS.

Premier Academies

  • WHS ALLIED HEALTH SERVICES ACADEMY - The goal of the program is to prepare students for careers in the healthcare industry through a curriculum emphasizing science, human and the organizational elements, with the opportunity to earn college credit and career oriented clinical experience(s). Students who successfully complete the course of study will have the opportunity to earn up to 22 college credits.
  • Industry Certification- Students will also have the opportunity to earn one of the industry certifications listed below: Certified Home Health Aide; Certified Clinical Medical Assistant; EKG/Telemetry Technician; Phlebotomy Technician; Physical Therapy Aide Certificate Program;Medical Insurance Billing Specialist; CPR/First Aid/Basic Life Support/EMT-B
  • JAG – Jobs for America’s Graduates – Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) is a state-based national non-profit organization dedicated to supporting young people of great promise. JAG is delivering the best results in its 40-year history, while serving youth who face significant challenges, to help them reach economic and academic success. The goal of the WHS JAG program is to help young people of great promise succeed both in school and on the job, leading to productive and rewarding careers.
  • WHS Honors & AP Academy – This pathway is designed to cultivate the talents, interests and scholastic aptitude of our students with an enhanced focus on the 9th and 10th graders. The Advanced Honors Academy will lead to multiple Advanced Placement courses that will allow students to perform at a rigorous level and earn college credits. Available courses of study include: AP Calculus AB, AP English Language & Composition, AP English Literature, AP U.S. History and AP Physics B. Students enrolled in this Academy will receive an extended hour of instruction that will allow them to gain membership into the Pathways to College Program and The National Honor Society as well as prepare for ACT, SAT and Advanced Placement testing. In addition to learning advanced skills, students will be exposed to the college admission process, campus tours, and various collegiate activities.

Co-Curricular Programs

  • WHS Athletics is the premier athletic program in the city with teams earning several state championships through the years in Track & Field, Football and Basketball. This program has also produced several professional athletes as well. Aside from Fall/Winter Track & Field, Football and Basketball, the school also offers Girls Volleyball, Cheerleading, Baseball and Softball.
  • The Weequahic High School Marching Band has a rich tradition of community pride and excellence in which students participate in performances, showcases, and provide support to our athletic events as the pride of our dear school.
  • WHS also offers an after school programs which include clubs, social groups, student council, national honor society, debate, dance and cultural expression.

Recognitions

  • Each quarter students are recognized for academic and school-wide success by teachers and members of the school community at our monthly WHS Pride Convocation.
  • Our guidance department recognizes all our students' career pathway advancements when they obtain acceptance into colleges, universities, and technical institutions statewide and abroad.

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health 

  • Daily Motivation is provided every morning to students during daily school-wide convocation, a standing meeting each morning with the Principal of the school and all students in which the school’s daily motivational chant is recited by all and a WHS ritual.
  • Mentorship and Restorative Practices are utilized daily to engage students with positive interactions.
  • Social & Emotional support is provided to all students by social workers, counselors and other key staff to ensure that the wellness of students remains paramount.

Alumni

  • The Weequahic High School Alumni Association is one of the country’s most premier and established alumni associations. Please visit the WHSAA website to learn more about the school’s rich history and alumni  https://weequahicalumni.org/
  • Our long list of notable alumni can be found here including the few mentioned below:https://weequahicalumni.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Distinguished-Weequahic-Alumni-Revised-07-19-20.pdf
    • Sid Dorfman, Newark Star-Ledger sports journalist
    • Dr. Nathan Weiss, longtime President of Kean University
    • Philip Roth, Pulitzer Prize winning author of thirty-one books. Inducted into the NJ Hall of Fame.
    • Antoinette Baskerville-Richardson, Board President, Chief Education Officer for the City of Newark.
    • Sheila Oliver, New Jersey Lieutenant Governor; Speaker of the New Jersey State Assembly.
    • Marquis “Bo” Porter, manager of the MLB Houston Astros baseball team.
    • Adenah Bayoh, Entrepreneur
    • Alturrick Kenney, Essex County Surrogate, Deputy Mayor of Newark, Board Member.
    • And, a super long list of simply incredible people.

Make East Side High School Your #1 Choice

East Side High School - Logo

[NEWARK, NJ, January 13, 2022] “As we begin to bring our series of comprehensive high schools to a close today, we feature our fifth comprehensive high school, East Side High School, the largest school in Newark,” said Superintendent León.

As the largest bilingual comprehensive high school in Newark, we represent a mosaic of cultural diversity, where the uniqueness and ultimate worth of each individual is an essential ingredient in our varied curriculum. Students and staff alike are encouraged to develop their abilities in a manner most conducive to meeting the challenges and opportunities of an ever-changing and demanding world.

“East Side High School is a comprehensive high school with a Magnet Touch,” said Dr. Santos, Principal and graduate of East Side. He added, “we provide a nurturing environment that fosters educational opportunities for students to develop into self-reliant leaders and contributing members of a diverse society in the 21st century.”

“I have been very pleased with the experience of Essex County College and the opportunities it provides me along with the classes here at East Side,” said Justin Sigcho, senior at East Side. “Because of these dual enrollment classes, I have a 4.2 GPA. I love how I can still participate in these college classes and play sports after the program.”

Here is a focus on East Side High School:

Academics and College & Career Readiness

  • East Side High School/ Essex County College Early Program
  • MSU Red Hawks Rising Dual Enrollment Program
  • NJIT Forensic Science Dual Enrollment Course
  • MSU Future College Graduate Dual Enrollment Courses
  • International Baccalaureate Program
  • Honors and AP course menu:
    • East Side Opportunity Program (ESOP) is the Honors Program, offering an honors track in ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies for 9-12 grade students.
    • Advanced Placement selection of 13 AP courses

Premier Academies

  • Teacher Academy - Our signature academy, “The Teacher Academy” and its Newark Board of Education (NBOE) sister school University High School have continued to work together since the 2019-2020 school year to ensure that Newark has a pathway for those children with a passion for teaching to become educators and advocates for social justice. The teacher academy is proud of its industry partner the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and its post-secondary institution partner Montclair State University (MSU) who meet monthly to reach tangible goals that lay out a cohesive pathway for students to become teachers and eventually return to Newark as an employee. Currently, the start of dual enrollment courses is projected for the Spring of 2022. Students enrolled in their third year of the academy will start taking dual enrollment courses in their junior year of high school. Each year offers a different Work Based Learning (WBL) experience in another school while interning and participating in Big Brother/Big Sister programming for k-1st grade students within the district.
  • The Graphic Design Academy - ESHS and its NBOE sister schools Newark Vocational, Arts and Technology HS have continued to work together since the 2019/2020 school year to ensure that Newark has a pathway for those children with a passion for graphic design and industry opportunities. We are proud of its industry partner the Hygrade Business and Business Master Form and its post-secondary institution partner Rutgers and Kean University who meet in order to reach tangible goals that lay out a cohesive pathway for students to become aspiring graphic designers. Educational stakeholders like the City of Newark Public Library are to ensure partnerships are fostered for student designs to be proudly displayed in person.
  • The Video/Film Academy - ESHS and its NBOE sister school Technology High School have continued to work together since the 2019/2020 school year to ensure that Newark has a pathway for those children with a passion for Film and Video and industry opportunities. The Film and Video academy is proud of its industry partner the Slate and DreamPlay and its post-secondary institution partner Essex County College who meet in order to reach tangible goals that lay out a cohesive pathway for students to become aspiring Film and Video professionals.
    Currently, the start of dual enrollment courses is projected for the Fall of the 2021/2022 school year. Students enrolled in their third year of the academy will have an opportunity for dual enrollment courses. The focus of the pathway is employability skills, work-based learning skills, career, and technical expertise.
  • Visual Performing Arts Academy - ESHS has developed from short theatrical demonstrations to Broadway level performances. In conjunction with the Victoria Foundation and their continued support this will allow ESHS to grow its Broadway program. ESHS has also partnered with industry partners such as: May the Rhythm Be With You; Fox Voice Studios; Formula 51; New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC); Daryl L. Stewart Productions.
    To continue to create sustainable programming the infrastructure so that the program can reach its full potential and beyond, a combination of assessment tools will be used to evaluate and measure student’s growth and achievement towards the identified goals: NAER Pre and Post surveys for students; Renew the Arts tools to measure school arts education capacity; content-specific assessments in each art discipline to measure competency in arts standards. Performance attendance and satisfaction will be measured by attendance numbers, surveys, and audience testimonials.
  • Internship Academy at Big Picture - East Side High School currently supports close to 200 students in “virtual” internships through the internship academy of Big Pig Picture.
    The purpose of our program is to ensure our students' passion meets purpose and even in the virtual world it is still possible to network while exploring different professional fields.
    All students are supported by an advisor and soft skills curriculum while exploring professional possibilities every Wednesday during the school day.
    Our freshmen and sophomore students participate in our “Internship Bootcamp” which supports students with soft/real world skills to interview, resume development, emotional intelligence, and professionalism. Students present in a midterm exhibition/capstone of their experience and declare for one of the 15 sites that they will explore in more detail. This second half of the school year focuses the students in a more specific skill based internship based on their interest inventory. These sites vary from internships in law, business, healthcare, art, coding, urban farming ect…
    Our juniors and seniors pair with our Newark Youth Career Pathways (NYCP) partners to participate in paid internships based on their personal interest inventories. Students virtually meet with their mentors to better understand the professional adjustments made due to Covid and the skills and pathways needed to be successful in these fields.
    All our students present at the end of the year a project based on the skills from their internships and how this experience can be used to better the students' visibility and post-secondary plan. Each project is community based and connected to our social justice advisory curriculum.
  • MSU Red Hawks Rising Dual Enrollment Program

Co-Curricular Programs

  • Athletics: Fall Cheer; Cross Country Boys; Cross Country Girls; Fall Dance; Football; Soccer Boys; Soccer Girls; Tennis Girls; Volleyball Girls; Basketball Boys; Basketball Girls; Bowling Boys; Bowling Girls; Winter Cheer; Winter Dance; Ice Hockey Boys; Ice Hockey Girls; Indoor Track Boys; Indoor Track Girls; Swimming Boys; Swimming Girls; Wrestling Boys; Wrestling Girls; Baseball; Golf Boys; Golf Girls; Lacrosse Boys; Lacrosse Girls; Outdoor Track Boys; Outdoor Track Girls; Softball; Tennis Boys; Volleyball Boys; Flag Football Girls
  • Clubs: Amnesty; Chess Club; Choir ; Civics Club; Coding Club; Comic Book Club; Debate Team; Future Bilingual Leaders Club; Future Teachers of America; Gay Straight Alliance; Green Side; Jazz Band Club; Literary Magazine; Model UN; National Honor Society; Newspaper Club; Oral History of ESHS / Historical Society ; Pan African American Club; Photography Club; Robotics Club; Sign Language; Spanish / Portuguese Honor Society; Spanish Club; Spanish Magazine; Student Council; The Portuguese Club Os Academicos; The Portuguese Literary Magazine; World Heritage Club; Yearbook

Recognitions

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health

  • SKY SCHOOLS Partnership: Free APP for students, Daily meditation opportunities, sponsors programs for faculty and students
  • LOTUS YOGA Partnership: Lotus Yoga works with select Physical Education classes.
  • SEL Committee for faculty and students

Alumni

  • Mike Barca, Soccer Player in the North American, American, and Major Indoor Leagues
  • Heinie Benkert, New York Giants
  • Harry L. Ettlinger, one of the Monuments Men during World War II whose efforts were portrayed on film in The Monuments Men
  • Randy Foye, Denver Nuggets
  • Frank Grant, Washington Redskins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Football Teams
  • Golden E. Johnson, first African American woman to serve as Newark Municipal Court Judge
  • Honey Lott, New York Black Yankees
  • Dina Matos, former First Lady of New Jersey
  • Charles Anthony Micchelli, Mathematician
  • Telmo Pires, professional soccer player
  • Camille Sabie, Women's World Games 2 x Gold Medalist, 1 Bronze Medal
  • David Smukler, Philadelphia Eagles
  • Sarah Vaughan, Jazz Singer
  • Hassan Whiteside, Miami Heat
  • And, a super long list of simply incredible people.

Make Central High School Your #1 Choice

Central

This series continues our efforts to highlight the six comprehensive high schools in Newark before the Newark Enrolls application process closes next month by featuring each one of these schools.

“Over one decade ago, the Broader Bold Approach at Central High School coordinated efforts with and across a feeder pattern of elementary schools,” recalls Superintendent León. “We know its structure, we know it works, and we are poised to see its return as today we feature the fourth comprehensive high school.”

Completing a career academy program while in high school better prepares our students to make informed college and career decisions. At Central High School, teachers and staff educate the whole child by focusing on preparing all students for college and career success. They support all students’ needs by designing and carrying out programs that offer all students a rich educational experience and opportunities for students to explore academy careers and interests through external partnerships. The principal of Central High School, Terri Mitchell, believes that it is the responsibility of her staff to prepare students for their future. “For our students to have the best chance of fulfilling their potential, learning in and through career exploration must be part of their education, and to achieve this, we must all work together to provide our children with the complete education they deserve.”

Here at Central High School, our premiere academies include the Dental Academy and Environmental Studies Academy. Students accepted in the Dental Academy are engaged by 2 dental hygienists in a state-of-the-art dental lab. Our dental lab is the place where students gain knowledge to become a radiology certified dental assistant and CPR certified. “This Academy lasts all 4 years of high school, and it's a program that prepares students for future careers in Dentistry. We are provided with interactive activities, and even have equipment used in actual dental offices,” said Toni Greer, a tenth-grade Dental student. Students accepted in the Environmental Studies Academy are engaged in internships that give students hands-on experiences needed to prepare them for environmental careers in resource management, engineering, business, non-profit work, law, conservation, or education.

Here is a focus on Central High School:

Academics and College & Career Readiness

  • The school currently offers Dual-Enrollment courses through partnerships with the following post-secondary institutions: Howard University, NJIT, Rutgers-Newark, Essex County College
  • The school currently offers Advanced Placement and Honors courses to students who are accepted in the Central High School Opportunity Program, CHSOP. Students accepted in this program will be enrolled in rigorous courses such as:
    • AP Calculus
    • AP Computer Science
    • AP English Language & Composition
    • AP English Literature
    • AP U.S. History
    • AP Government & Politics
    • AP Biology
    • AP French

Premier Academies

  • Central High School Dental Academy is one of our premier academies that is taught by 2 dental hygienists in a state-of-the-art dental lab. In partnership with Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and Quality Dental School of Technology, students gain knowledge to become certified dental assistants and radiology and CPR certified. These certifications prepare students for careers in dentistry such as dental assistants and technicians.
    • Students will also compete in HOSA (Health Occupation Student Association) state and regional competitions.
  • Central High School Environmental Studies Academy is one of our premier academies that is taught by Science teachers using an on-site greenhouse, urban garden, and science labs. In partnership with Kean University, Solar One, and PSEG, students participate in paid internships to work alongside farmers planting, growing, & harvesting vegetables.

Co-Curricular Programs

  • Central High School Athletics is the 2nd largest in the district, coaching scholar athletes in the following sports:
    • Basketball
    • Football
    • Volleyball
    • Soccer
    • Tennis
    • Baseball/Softball
    • Track & Field/Cross Country
    • Bowling
    • Swimming
    • Cheerleading
  • Central High School offers programs that students can join to be well rounded members of their school community with interests in the following clubs, teams, and organizations:
    • Debate & Speech
    • Robotics
    • National Honor Society
    • Student Council
    • Newspaper
    • Yearbook
    • Literary Magazine

Recognitions

  • Quarterly Honor Roll & Perfect Attendance Celebrations
  • Student of the Month per Grade Level
  • Most Improved Award for students focus and accomplish short term goals

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health

  • Morning Convocation-Monthly Motivational Themes, School Song, School Improvement Updates
  • Advisories–Weekly Character-Building Activities during an Extended Homeroom
  • CHS C.A.R.E.–Students focus on Character, Accountability, Responsibility, & Excellence Workshops
  • Restorative Circles – Students engage in SEL lessons with support staff after positive student management sessions
  • Sisters Inspiring Sisters – Female students engaged in inspiring workshops geared towards self-esteem and sisterhood
  • My Brothers’ Keeper – Male students are engaged in empowering workshops geared towards decision-making and brotherhood

CHS Alumni

  • LaMonica McIver – Newark Central Ward Councilwoman
  • Dr. La’Quetta Small – Superintendent of Atlantic City School District
  • Mayor Kenneth Gibson - First African American Mayor of Newark
  • Joe Clark – Renowned Educator and Principal of Paterson East Side High School
  • Walter Devlin - Former NBA player
  • Patrick Cole - Former Division I NCAA Basketball Player
  • Mohamed Kamara – Current Division I NCAA Football Player
  • And, a super long list of simply great people!

Make West Side High School Your #1 Choice

Today, we continue our series on the six comprehensive high schools in Newark. The Newark Enrolls application process closes on February 11, 2022.

“The focus at West Side High School is an emphasis on business and finance,” shared Superintendent León. “The mission of this school is to nurture students’ entrepreneurial spirit at the intersection of relationship, innovation, and passion,” he noted.

The mission of West Side High School is to prepare all of our students for college, career, and citizenship. We will provide a safe, clean, positive, and supportive learning environment in which all students can successfully develop socially, emotionally, and academically. We want children to be in positions to lead lives of enduring quality and accomplishment. We regard development of both intellect (academic proficiency) and strength of character as a prime means to success.

“West Side’s willingness to meet students where they are is non-negotiable,” said Principal Cook. “We need to find out what a student’s genius level is and harness what they’re passionate about than forge the two. Using an Individual Learning Plan while reverse engineering how to obtain that specific living wage is the ideal way to expose our students to what post-secondary success truly looks like,” he pointed out.

Scarlet Avila-Bryant is a senior at West Side High School who shares that “Being dually enrolled in college level courses in high school has been the most terrifying yet rewarding experience. It gives you a good sense of the college experience. It is all worth it in the end. I graduate in June with a high school diploma and an Associate’s Degree! That’s half of college already finished.”

Here is a focus on West Side High School:

Academics and College & Career Readiness

  • Accounting & Finance
  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Agriculture (Urban Farming)
  • Catering
  • Cosmetology
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Music Technology
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Video Game Design

Premier Academies

  • Dual Enrollment with Associates Degree in Business Administration or Supply Chain Management
  • Dual Enrollment courses with Montclair State University
  • Dual Enrollment (MSI) with NJIT

Co-Curricular Programs

  • Clubs: Debate, Freshman Class, Sophomore Class Club, Junior Class, Senior Class, Honor Society, Human Rights Club, Pathways to College, Robotics, School Newspaper, Ski Club, Student Council, Yearbook
  • Athletics: Boys’ Basketball, Girls’ Basketball, Bowling, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Indoor Track, Football, Soccer, Softball, Boys’ Volleyball, Girls’ Volleyball

Recognitions

  • Lights On! Program at West Side!
  • 1st cohort graduating June of 2022 with an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration or Supply Chain Management from Essex County College
  • COVID vaccination site and the start of Vaccine for Teens initiative in Newark

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health
At West Side High School, we pride ourselves on community support and development. Through the efforts of our Student Support Team, we provide social, emotional, and learning support to students and their families. Group and individual counseling are provided in the areas of social skills development, conflict resolutions, trauma, grief, and loss. In addition, we have a number of community agencies and hospitals that we partner with to service the various health needs of our students and families. West Side High School is committed to ensuring that the whole child and their family’s needs are met.

Alumni Support to West Side High School
The West Side High School Alumni Association provides yearly scholarships, purchase uniforms for the athletic program, provide pregame meals for our football team, provide transportation for athletic venues to the New Balance Track Invitational in Greensboro NC, sponsored teacher appreciation day events, hosted a student Meet & Greet Day with the Alumni Day, and grief counseling with a pastoral component for families, to name a few. Our trademark event is our West Side Hall of Fame. We have inducted approximately 65 alumni, teachers, and community activists into the WSHS Hall of Fame. Here is a list of the few greats who have walked the halls at West Side High School.

  • Donald Bradley, Newark Municipal Council President
  • Milton Bulkum, Pro Football Player for Canadian football league
  • Mark Caesar, Pro Football Player for Miami Dolphins
  • Ray Chambers, Philanthropist & Former Owner of NJ Nets
  • Caroline Clark, Captain of Newark Police Department
  • Robert Epps, Engineer & Scientist for United States Army
  • Gary Hayes, Teacher & Administrator Newark Public Schools
  • Leonard Moore, Supervisor of Newark Public Schools
  • Nathaniel Potts, Director of City of Newark Education Program; Principal of West Side High School
  • Wayne Smith, Mayor of Irvington
  • Gary Taylor, Athletic Director & Founder of Alumni Association
  • Robert Taylor, Principal & Coach, Kenilworth Schools
  • Gary Westberry, Athletic Director at Weequahic & Founding member
  • Fernard Williams, Principal West Side High School & Detective of Newark Police Department
  • Mary Bennett, Principal of Malcolm X Shabazz High School
  • Bessie Walker, Newark Municipal Councilwoman & President of Alumni Association
  • Tahir Whitehead, National Football League Player
  • And, a super long list of simply incredible people.

Make Barringer High School Your #1 Choice

Barringer High School - Logo

[NEWARK NJ, January 11, 2022] This is the second high school we are featuring on Newark’s six comprehensive high schools as we enter into the final weeks of the Newark Enrolls process.

“Barringer High School is the third oldest high school in the United States,” announced Superintendent Leon. “We are extremely excited to showcase this high school in our series of the high school redesign strategy across the six comprehensive high schools.”

Our mission at Barringer High School is to prepare all students to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens ready to meet the challenges of the future,” said Principal Dr. Aviles. As educators, we understand the four R’s: Relevance + Rigor + Relationships = Results.

“I believe that all children can achieve success even in adverse circumstances,” said Principal Dr. Jose Aviles. “Knowledge is a powerful antidote for ignorance and provides the defense our students need to combat the lure of negative influences they confront on a daily basis. A well-rounded education will provide the knowledge our students need to overcome any obstacle placed in their path. Providing a caring and nurturing learning environment, with multiple opportunities to experience new methods of learning is essential. This can be achieved through a student-centered approach which encourages the development of a strong character, he added”

“Barringer High School and the Newark Public Schools made me feel part of a caring community that aims to deliver for our students,” said Arnulfo Chamale,

Here is a focus on Barringer High School:

Academics and College & Career Readiness

  • Over 3 Million in scholarship opportunities.
  • Barringer students were also accepted, during the past 3 years, by innumerable colleges and universities outside of New Jersey, including Dartmouth College, Old Dominion University, Clemson University, Villanova University, Brandeis University, Susquehanna University, Lehigh University, Albertus Magnus University, Johnson & Wales University, and University of Bridgeport. In addition, Barringer students were accepted by several historically black colleges and universities, including Howard University, Spellman University, Hampton University, Virginia Union and Morgan State University.Etc.- Over Fifty years since a student from Barringer was accepted into an Ivy League school.
  • Doubled the amount of finishers for CTE program.

Premiere Academies

  • Law- Learn the basic components of tort, consumer, housing, family, and immigration law in partnership with Rutgers Law School, McCarter & English Law Firm, and University High School.
  • Public Safety- Learn the hierarchy of law enforcement agencies in the municipality and state.
  • JROTC- Earn credit and rank while in the JROTC program at Barringer High School.
  • Cybersecurity- Protect networks, computers, programs, and data from attacks using cyber security techniques.
  • Carpentry- learn basic safety, use of hand and power tools, as well as working with construction drawings and blueprints and material handling. ... This pathway prepares you for core.

Co-Curricular Programs

  • Clubs: Anime; Art/Mural Club; Artistic Production; Assistant Band Director; Band Director; BB Ambassadors;
    Bear Band; BHS SIFE Connection; Book Club; Chess Club; Community Garden/Spring; Creative Writing; Dance Club; Dance Club; Debate; E-Sports Club; English/Spanish Language Exchange; ESL; Forensic/Cyber Security; GSA; Hip Hop Dance; Horticulture; Investment Club; JROTC Fall; JROTC Spring; JROTC Summer; Junior Class of 2023; Latin Dance/Majorettes/Fall; Newspaper/Podcast; NHS; Peer Mentorship; Photography; Robotics; SAC; School Store/Entrepreneurship Club; Senior Class of 2022; Sisterhood Club; Sneaker Customization Club; Social Emotional/ Suicide Prevention; Social Media Club; Social Media Club; Spanish Honor Society; Step Student Council; Student Government; Treasurer; Video Production Club; Weight Club; Yearbook; Youth Court
  • Athletics: Football; Boys Soccer, Boys Volleyball; Girls Volleyball, Boys Cross Country; Girls Cross Country; Cheerleading; Boys Basketball; Girls Basketball; Wrestling; Boys Indoor Track, Girls Indoor Track; Bowling; Softball; Baseball; Boys Outdoor Track; Girls Outdoor Track; Golf

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health

  • Hashim Garrett – Wisdom and Understanding LLC: The mission of Wisdom & Understanding, LLC is to promote character education, decrease suspensions, reduce absenteeism and cyber bullying.
  • Dennis Febo - Guazabara Insights, LLC: Guazabara Insights, LLC provides educational services to community institutions by educating on topics dealing with social consciousness, identity, culture, and self-knowledge through means of educational workshops, including but not limited to topics such on the Industrial prison complex, Social Justice in the media, and self-advocacy.
  • Dr. Desiree Saab - School-Based Youth Services: New Jersey School-Based Youth Services Program is a collaborative partnership between the New Jersey Department of Human Services, local school boards, and the community they serve. In our efforts to provide better access to health and social service programs for children in Newark, Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center has opened a School-Based YSP at Barringer High. The goal of this program is to improve the health status of the children by providing quality services on-site.
  • Carlos Valentin - ASPIRA - ASPIRA’s mission is to empower the community through advocacy, education & leadership development. In 1961, Dr. Antonia Pantoja and a group of educators and professionals created ASPIRA (the Spanish word for “aspire”), to address the exceedingly high dropout rate and low educational attainment of Puerto Rican youth.
  • Armando Aviles – Cops 4 Kids: The MISSION of ESSEX COUNTY COPS 4 KIDS is to provide exciting activities and one-on-one mentorship for youth looking to explore a future career in law enforcement. Providing College & Career Readiness preparation to both males and females, ages 10-21, participants of the program engage in fun and exploratory “hands-on” career experiences along with confidence building exercises that promote leadership and offer community service opportunities.
  • Newark Youth Career Pathway Year Round Employment Opportunity: NYCP, a program of Newark Alliance convenes a network of youth workforce providers, schools, and industry partners to synchronize year-round supports that prepare and expose youth to in demand career pathways.
  • Rethink: Rethink Ed develops social-emotional competencies to create safe and supportive schools, family, and community environments where children thrive, are both respected and respectful, and where everyone engages in active learning.
  • Wrap-Around Services: The Wraparound team exists to serve the student and family, by assessing the unique challenges of at risk youth and their families. The understanding is that these families do not have to “bend over backwards” to fit into a pre-existing system. In the beginning phase of the process, the Wraparound team, led by a Wraparound facilitator, meets with the child and family to actively listen to their individual needs. Then, the team determines areas of strength upon which a specialized strategy can be based. Next, after considering the specific goals of the student and family, the Wraparound team formulates a plan which includes everyone. That means family, students, teachers, school administrators, and guidance counselors. Any relevant parties directly involved in the life of the child should be involved.

Alumni

  • William J. Brennan-Justice of the United States Supreme Court
  • Charles Evans Hughes-Former US Chief Justice
  • Donald Payne Sr. – Congressman
  • Luis Quintana- Newark Councilman
  • Steve Adubato Sr.- Politician & Educator
  • Amiri Baraka- Writer, Poet
  • Andre Tippet- NFL Hall of Famer
  • Ron Stone- Principal
  • Camelia Valdes- Passaic County Prosecutor
  • And, a super long list of simply incredible people.

Make Malcolm X Shabazz High School Your #1 Choice

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[NEWARK NJ, January 11, 2022] This is the first high school in a series featuring Newark’s six comprehensive high schools, as we enter into the final weeks of the Newark Enrolls process.

We are extremely excited about the high school redesign strategy. Over the past two years, higher education institutions, professional organizations, and magnet high schools have partnered with our comprehensive high schools in [re]designing premier academies to provide more high school options for all of our students in Newark.

“Today, we are excited to begin this series by featuring Malcolm X Shabazz High School, formerly known as South Side High School,” announced Superintendent Leon. “Malcolm X Shabazz High School has a rich history and is currently the home of an incredible student body poised to join such greatness,” he added.

At Malcolm X Shabazz High School, we believe education does not start or end in the classroom. True learning occurs at all times, when you succeed, when you fail, when you make mistakes, and when you accomplish your goals. We believe that as a school we are teaching all the time. Every hallway interaction, home visit, and family meeting communicates who we are, what we value, and why we are here. In the ever inspiring words of Malcolm X Shabazz himself, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

"Amid a history that has tested a population's capacity and endurance for decades, resilience is our inherent signature,” stated Ambassador Shabazz; eldest daughter of Malcolm X Shabazz. She noted, “With a foundation of committed leaders, teachers, students, parents, alumni, and comrades, I am proud to formally add Malcolm X Shabazz High School to my portfolio as Provost, in honor of both, my Mother and Father's mandate to prepare, inspire and ensure healthy young men and women of the future, to fulfill their academic and social aspirations."

Principal Atiba Buckman took the helm of Malcolm X Shabazz High School in September 2021, after 25 years in education, most recently as the Principal of Newark’s Speedway Avenue School. Ms. Buckman often quotes the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and for that reason she has gathered a team of committed faculty and staff. In the spirit of high expectations and in the quest of excellence, every staff member participates in a multitude of trainings in student engagement, differentiated instruction, and social-emotional learning. Just as importantly, every staff member shares Ms. Buckman’s love and respect for each and every one of the students at Malcolm X Shabazz High School.

Dawn Haynes, President of the Newark Board of Education, is a proud graduate and strong supporter of Malcolm X Shabazz High School. “I have very fond memories of my high school years,” Ms. Haynes said, “and, we are committing more resources and supports to the school so it can continue to be a viable option for students in the South Ward and throughout the district.”

“There is no doubt that Malcolm X Shabazz is on the move and trending upwards,” said Ifeoluwa Adeyemi, senior at Shabazz. “I currently have a GPA of 4.429, and even though it has been difficult throughout this pandemic, I am happy to say that I have already been accepted to three universities on full scholarships, and awaiting response from the others. It is my hope to study and major in Business and Accounting,” she added.

Here is a focus on Malcolm X Shabazz High School:

Academics and College & Career Readiness

  • The school currently offers 4 Advanced Placement courses and 14 Honors classes.
  • The school partners with Rutgers-Newark and NJIT to offer dual enrollment courses where students attend college classes for college credit while still in high school.
  • All students are eligible to compete in MXS Games, which is the school’s new academic challenge program.
  • This is the only high school that competes in the national geology competition.
  • Approximately $1 Million in upgrades and renovations to the facility in the initial redesign phase.

Premier Academies

  • The Malcolm X Shabazz High School Engineering Academy, offered in partnership with NJIT, Stryker, and Technology High School, provides an outstanding opportunity for students to attain the skills to become society’s problem solvers. Biomedical engineering is an exciting and challenging field in which medical knowledge and scientific information are transformed into practical applications and medicines that help people to live longer and stay healthier. Courses include Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, and Engineering Design and Development.
  • The Madam C.J. Walker Natural Health and Beauty Science Academy, a state-approved cosmetology program, is named for one of the first American female self-made millionaires, who invented a line of African American hair products after suffering from a scalp ailment that resulted in her own hair loss. Students can become licensed after completing 1,000 hours of engaging hands-on training under the supervision of a licensed cosmetologist, salon owner, and certified cosmetology teacher. Cosmetology courses cover topics such as Hair Care, Barbering, Skin Care, Nail Care, Infection Control, and Business Skills.

Co-Curricular Programs

  • The nationally renowned Malcolm X Shabazz High School Marching Band has performed for several United States Presidents over the years and has performed throughout the nation.
  • Student government campaigns and service provide students with opportunities to gain professional skills such as effective communications, research, and presenting ideas.
  • In partnership with Seton Hall’s SOFT (Securing Our Future Today) program, Malcolm X Shabazz High School provides daily meal packs for families in the South Ward.
  • Book Club, Chess Club, Student Newspaper/ Writers Team, Dance Ensemble, Soccer Club, International Club, Robotics Club, Orator and Talent Club.
  • Girls Football; Boys Football; Girls Basketball; Boys Basketball; Cheerleaders; Volleyball; Baseball; Softball; Tennis; Cross Country; Track and Field; Soccer

Recognitions

  • College acceptances include Ivy League colleges, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, state and private higher education institutions, and technical institutes. The list includes Harvard, Shaw, Rutgers, and NJIT on full scholarships, to name a few.
  • Students are recognized monthly for academic, citizenship, and other awards.
  • Every marking period, students who demonstrate academic excellence are honored at the Principal’s Breakfast.

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health

  • All classrooms have a designated “Calming Corner” to accommodate students that need a tranquil space for themselves.
  • Teaching staff members have “intention time” for meetings with the school’s and district’s mental health counselors to improve student self-awareness.
  • Lessons focus on mindfulness to stimulate students’ mental, physical, and emotional processes.
  • Social workers and school counselors provide additional and more intensive support to students and families.

Alumni

  • Malcolm X Shabazz High School has a rich history and an alumni association committed to assisting the district and the school.
  • Many South Side and Malcolm X Shabazz High School graduates have gone on to successful careers and major leadership roles. They include Board President Dawn Haynes, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marion A. Bolden, Newark Mayor Sharpe James, NYC Mayor Edward I. Koch, and State Senator Ronald Rice.
  • Bernard Marcus, founder of Home Depot
  • Gloria Gaynor, singer, “I Will Survive”
  • Vanessa Watson, College Women’s Basketball Head Coach
  • A long list of incredible educators and athletes: Dr. Lawrence Lonnie Wright, Li’Za Donnell, Kathleen Witcher, David McCombs, Matee Ajevon, Anthony Avent, Rasheed Sheffield
  • And, a super long list of simply incredible people.