Press Releases

The Newark Public Schools Opens the Nelson Mandela Elementary School

Superintendent Leὀn, Board Members, Councilwoman McIver, Assistant Superintendent Miller, Principal Silver along with students and staff of Nelson Mandela Elementary School
Superintendent Leὀn, Board Members, Councilwoman McIver, Assistant Superintendent Miller, Principal Silver along with students and staff of Nelson Mandela Elementary School

[Newark, NJ] On Tuesday, November 14 Superintendent León, along with City Council President LaMonica McIver, Newark Board of Education President Hasani Council, members of the Newark School Board, staff, parents, community members, and other esteemed guests, proudly unveiled the Nelson Mandela Elementary School at a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The school is located in the heart of the city in the Central Ward, and serves Pre-Kindergarten through third grade and will grow an additional grade every year until it reaches the eighth grade.

Nelson Mandela Elementary School is committed to honoring the legacy of the visionary leader Nelson Mandela by fostering a learning environment that embraces diversity, equity, and the values essential for creating positive change in communities and the world. Just as President Mandela dedicated his life to breaking down barriers and fostering unity, the Nelson Mandela Elementary School is committed to providing a nurturing environment where every child can thrive, regardless of background or circumstance. The school's vision is to equip every student with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to succeed in a global society, where diversity is celebrated and equality is valued.

The Nelson Mandela Elementary School envisions a future where every student embodies the core values of Persistence, Enthusiasm, Altruism, Community, and Excellence. These values form the foundation of their educational philosophy and are integral to developing students who grow into well-rounded adults and contribute positively to society guided by the spirit of Ubuntu – "I am because we are" – which permeates every classroom and hallway, the heart and mind of every student and staff member at Nelson Mandela Elementary School.

The curriculum is guided by Project Lead The Way and will focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. PLTW prides itself on tapping into the curious nature of students, immersing them in hands-on activities, projects, and problems that build upon each other and relate to the real world while making learning feel like play.

This is the 9th new school that has been opened under the visionary leadership of Superintendent Leόn who pridefully stated, “At Nelson Mandela Elementary School, we embark on a journey to shape the leaders of tomorrow. This celebration marks the beginning of a legacy that will inspire generations to come.”

Board President Council stated, “Our vision is clear – the Newark Board of Education is not about closing doors; rather, it is about opening them, expanding opportunities, and championing excellence for every student”.

The District is grateful to the Schools Development Authority and the leadership of its CEO Manuel DaSilva for this school.

The inauguration of Nelson Mandela Elementary School as a new elementary school in the district is a further realization of the goals and priorities outlined in the ten-year strategic, The Next Decade: 2020-30. The opening of Nelson Mandela Elementary School comes on the heels of burgeoning student enrollment in the district, now reaching over 39,000 students.

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 months and 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.

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

Celebrity Chef Lyana Blount of Black Rican Vegan Takes Newark Vocational Students on a Vegan Culinary Journey

Black Rican Vegan Chef, Lyana S. Blount with Newark Vocational High School culinary students and Principal DeSantis
Black Rican Vegan Chef, Lyana S. Blount with Newark Vocational High School culinary students and Principal DeSantis

[Newark, NJ] On Thursday, November 2, the Newark Public Schools hosted a remarkable event at Newark Vocational High School. The special occasion featured celebrity Chef Lyana S. Blount, the accomplished Chef/Founder/CEO of Black Rican Vegan, and it exceeded all expectations. The event included a lecture for students, an interactive Q&A session, a book signing, and a captivating cooking demonstration for the culinary and hospitality program students.

Chef Lyana, a culinary sensation originally from the Bronx, New York, took Newark Vocational High School students on a culinary journey, introducing them to the world of plant-based comfort food. Chef Lyana, who is proud of her African-American and Puerto Rican heritage, turned her hobby into a successful business that has won the hearts and taste buds of many celebrities and people across the globe.

The event highlighted a fundamental element of the student experience at Newark Vocational High School, emphasizing the importance of work-based learning for aspiring “completers” in the culinary program. For students in the culinary arts program, the event served as a valuable career exploration experience. Chef Lyana's guidance and expertise offered them an unparalleled introduction to entrepreneurship in the culinary field.

Through this innovative event, Seniors were provided with a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience through a work-based learning program where they had the privilege to participate in a cooking demonstration utilizing their state-of-the-art kitchen. The hands-on approach is designed to equip Newark Vocational High School students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their future careers, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Superintendent León expressed his enthusiastic support for this collaboration, stating, "Newark Vocational High School remains steadfast in its commitment to providing our students with unique learning experiences that prepare them for real-world success. Black Rican Vegan Chef Lyana’s contribution exemplifies our dedication to incorporating real-world experiences into our school, underlining our commitment to broadening our students' horizons.”

Board President Hasani Council added, "The Newark Board of Education is dedicated to creating experiences for students to learn from experts in various fields. The collaboration with Chef Lyana is a prime illustration of how such experiences have a life-changing impact on students' lives."

Principal DeSantis of Newark Vocational High School also conveyed her enthusiasm, noting, "We were delighted to welcome Chef Lyana of Black Rican Vegan to our school. Her culinary expertise, knowledge, and inspiring stories were a tremendous inspiration for our students, providing them with a unique opportunity to learn from a vegan chef and entrepreneur.”

Collaborations with inspiring individuals like Chef Lyana brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, shaping the future of Newark Public School students to successfully compete on the global stage.

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 returning to local control in 2018, the District has opened nine new schools under Superintendent León's leadership, with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and 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.

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

Newmark Associates and Newark Board of Education Unite to a Launch Mentorship Program in Commercial Real Estate for Newark High School Students

Newark BOE seal
newmark-logo

[Newark, NJ] Newmark Associates, a leading commercial real estate firm is pleased to announce a partnership with the Newark Board of Education to introduce a groundbreaking mentorship program in the field of commercial real estate.  This transformative initiative is set to launch in the summer of 2024 aiming to empower Newark students by providing valuable mentorship opportunities.

As Susanne Newmark, President of Newmark Associates stated “We, at Newmark are very much aware of and acknowledge that mentorships make a difference in reducing economic divide, impacting generational wealth gaps and increasing equal access to opportunity.  Together with the Newark Board of Education we aim to bridge the gap between classroom education and real-world experience by offering mentorships to aspiring students interested in the field of commercial real estate.”

This program is a unique opportunity for both businesses and individuals to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Newark’s youth.  Newmark Associates is actively seeking companies and professionals who are willing to share their commitment to education and community development to join us in this exciting endeavor.  This involvement will make a significant impact on the lives and future careers of Newark’s students.

“We are excited to partner with Newmark Associations and unveil a groundbreaking mentorship program for the future leaders of commercial real estate. With the summer of 2024 on the horizon, we're committed to empowering Newark Public School students, bridging the gap between the classroom and real-world success,” said Superintendent Roger Leόn.  He added, “Mentorships is one key to unlocking economic equality, closing generational wealth disparities, and ensuring equal access to opportunity.”

The program will provide practical experience in commercial real estate through one-on-one mentorship with industry experts.  Mentees will have access to an extensive network of professional in the field, opening doors for potential future career opportunities.

Join us in making a difference and shaping the future of Newark’s youth through mentorship.

About Newmark Associates
With over forty years of experience and expertise in the fields of finance, law and healthcare, Newmark Associates brings a keen business acumen to each transaction.

As a respected leader in the industry, Newmark strategically partners with industry professionals to bring “under the radar” opportunities, and creative “out of the box” solutions to our clients and customers.

Newmark Associates is the largest and longest established woman owned and operated commercial real estate firm in New Jersey. We are proud to be WBENC, WBE, SBE and WOSB certified. These world class standards of certification are relied upon by corporate supplier diversity and procurement executives both nationally and globally.

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 months and 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.

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

Newark Enrolls Annual All Schools Fair Draws Thousands

2023 Newark Enrolls All Schools Fair 
2023 Newark Enrolls All Schools Fair 

[Newark, NJ] On Saturday, November 4, the Newark Enrolls All Schools Fair kicked off the school enrollment cycle for the next school year with tremendous energy as eager families flocked to Newark Vocational High School to explore the diverse educational opportunities offered by the city's schools. With a staggering turnout of thousands, the fair culminated with the official launch of Newark Enrolls, the universal enrollment system, for the 2024-25 school year.

Families seized the opportunity to have one-on-one interactions with school representatives from elementary schools, high schools, charter schools, and private pre-K providers. This gives new students or those in transitional grades the freedom to select up to eight schools of their choice. This year's All Schools Fair is well on its way to surpassing last year's participation, as evidenced by the applications submitted within hours of opening the Newark Enrolls application portal. The Newark Enrolls application is now open for all those interested in applying to attend our schools.

Superintendent León expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming school enrollment cycle, “This annual event continues to be one of my favorites because it embodies the collective spirit of our community's commitment to education and the boundless potential of our students."

“Each year, the All Schools Fair consistently raises the bar, and this Saturday was no exception," Board President Council commented. "I appreciate the opportunity it affords my fellow board members and me to engage directly with families," he added.

Families have until February 2, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. to make their selection. Families are encouraged to visit the enhanced application website at newarkenrolls.org. In addition to exploring each school's profile and viewing their promotional video, families can easily view a printable version of the Newark Enrolls Guidebook, FAQs, the Enrollment Timeline, and research schools viewable by grade and specialty. Newark Enrolls serves as an equitable, transparent, and seamless path to access the city's schools. This comprehensive system covers all district schools, private prekindergarten providers, and participating charter schools, administered by the District and powered by the SchoolMint platform. Newark Enrolls … A Choice for All Students.

For additional information, visit newarkenrolls.org.

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 returning to local control in 2018, the District has opened nine new schools under Superintendent León's leadership, with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and 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.

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

The Newark Public Schools Delivers Six Presentations at the Council of the Great City Schools 67th Annual Fall Conference

[Newark, NJ] – The Newark Public Schools is proud to announce its recent facilitation of six prestigious speaking sessions at the 67th Council of the Great City Schools (CGCS) Annual Fall Conference. This significant achievement underscores the District’s commitment to educational excellence and dedication to sharing best practices with educators and district leaders from across the largest school districts in the nation.

The CGCS Annual Fall Conference is one of the most respected and influential gatherings for leaders in the field of urban education. It attracts educators, school administrators, board members, policymakers, and thought leaders from around the country, providing a unique platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Newark is currently the only eligible school district in New Jersey to serve on the Council of the Great City Schools, and has been a member for decades. By prioritizing active participation and membership in the Council, the District has resumed its rightful place in national conversations about education in urban school districts. The Board President and Superintendent of all participating school districts, including Newark, serve as standing voting members on the Council’s Board of Directors. Additionally, the District is proud to announce that Superintendent León was recently appointed to serve on the Council’s Executive Board as well as the Leadership, Governance, Management and Finance Task Force. This recognition is an honor that was last bestowed on the District when Dr. Marion A. Bolden was Superintendent.

The six presentations delivered by the Newark Public Schools at this year's conference covered a wide range of critical topics in education, including:

  1. The Bilingual Education Improvement Plan
  2. Conception to Cradle - Birth to Age 3 Strategy
  3. Building Academic Success in K-3: Developing Foundational and Knowledge Building Curriculum Aligned to Standards and the Amistad Act
  4. Leveraging Better Teaching through Teacher Residencies in ELA and Mathematics
  5. Designing Enrichment Opportunities to Engage Students
  6. Enhancing Employee Health and Wellness and Saving Millions Through Self-Insurance and Automation

"We are thrilled to have been selected to present at the CGCS Annual Fall Conference," said Superintendent Roger León. "These presentations reflect the tireless efforts of our dedicated educators and the innovative approaches that make the Newark Board of Education a leader in urban education."

The CGCS Annual Fall Conference provides a valuable opportunity to collaborate with other educational professionals, share insights, and learn from peers. The District is excited to engage in meaningful discussions, network with fellow educators, and contribute to the ongoing improvement of urban education.

Board President Council said, “I am ecstatic that our District, the largest and only district in the state of New Jersey, has reestablished its relationship with the Council of the Great City Schools. This relationship is mutually beneficial to the Council, the District, and our students. The Council has a number of resources that will help us strengthen our curriculum and other services we offer our students.”

The District extends its gratitude to the CGCS for recognizing its contributions to the field of urban education and providing the platform to showcase its expertise.

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 months and 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.

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

Peshine Avenue School Unveils Cutting-Edge Student Media Center

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Newark, NJ - On October 30, 2023 the Newark Public Schools proudly unveiled a state-of-the-art Student Media Center at Peshine Avenue School.

This innovative hub, designed with precision, offers students a modern and comfortable space, with resources to prepare them for higher education, careers, and active participation in our global society while still in elementary school. Within the new media center, students can study independently, hone their research skills, collaborate on group projects, and develop essential social skills. Ultimately, this dynamic 21st century space, aims to ignite a passion for reading across all content areas.

Peshine Avenue School has transformed their media center into a thriving educational resource. This has endowed the media center with an array of diverse library materials and cutting-edge technology, poised to strengthen student learning and their curiosity across a wide variety of subjects. This provides students with an environment of engagement and collaboration that prioritizes learning, providing students with access to an array of genres and culturally relevant materials, thus empowering them to take ownership of their educational journey.

In 2020, Superintendent Roger León received the Administrator of the Year award from the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, showcasing his unwavering commitment to enhancing school media centers with high-quality books and learning resources. Under Superintendent León’s leadership, numerous school media centers have been either created or upgraded, ensuring that these extended learning environments are conducive to supporting and nurturing the educational growth of our students.

“Here in Newark Public Schools, we are opening libraries and providing access to more books so that children may discover more of themselves through history and fiction, and lead us toward a brighter future,” said Superintendent Leὀn.

“I am who I am today because of my school librarian.  I am excited for the students to enjoy this exquisite, well thought-out, cutting edge facility,” said Christian Zabriskie, Director of Newark Public Library.

Board President Council encouraged students, “Look around.  This is amazing!  We are extremely proud to see media centers being established in our schools and we want this to be a place where you, our students, embrace reading and become inspired.”

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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 months and 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.

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