Press Releases

Newark Public Schools Hosts Successful Fall College Fair for 2,689 High School Seniors

Class of 2024 interact with college recruiters during the college fair

[Newark, NJ] On Friday, September 22, 2023, the Newark Public Schools hosted its highly successful College Fair for the Class of 2024. This year's event took place at the NJIT Wellness and Events Center, with participation from more than 50 esteemed college recruiters. These recruiters engaged with 2,689 high school seniors actively preparing their post-secondary plans.

Among the distinguished institutions were Rutgers University, Rowan University, Bloomfield College of MSU, Montclair State University, Morgan State University, the Malcolm Bernard HBCU Representative, United States Military Services, and NJIT, who provided invaluable insights to the seniors.

All participants received the Class of 2024 College Fair Resource Guide and a bookbag to collect college applications and scholarship materials. Additionally, students came prepared to meet recruiters with copies of their transcripts. The College Fair was a valuable opportunity for seniors to explore post-secondary options upon graduation.

Reflecting on this event, Superintendent Roger León expressed his commitment to providing students with the necessary resources and support for their post-secondary success, stating, "The Newark Public Schools is unwavering in its dedication to ensuring our students have the tools they need to thrive in their post-secondary pursuits. We are delighted to have organized such a triumphant college fair for our seniors and eagerly anticipate the Class of 2025 College Fair in the Spring."

Board President Hasani K. Council also shared his thoughts, saying, "This successful event underscores the commitment of the Newark Board of Education to the future of our students. We are proud to support their aspirations and look forward to even more accomplishments in the future."

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 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.

Technology High School Receives Prestigious Recognition as a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School

Assistant Superintendent of High Schools Maria Ortiz, Superintendent Roger León, Principal Edwin Reyes of Technology High School, Senator Teresa Ruiz, students and staff celebrate Blue Ribbon status
Assistant Superintendent of High Schools Maria Ortiz, Superintendent Roger León, Principal Edwin Reyes of Technology High School, Senator Teresa Ruiz, students and staff celebrate Blue Ribbon status


[Newark, NJ, September 19, 2023] Newark Public Schools is thrilled to announce Technology High School’s recognition as a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School, a highly esteemed honor awarded by the U.S. Department of Education. This prestigious designation celebrates Technology High School's commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching practices, and exceptional student performance.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, established in 1982, recognizes schools that demonstrate exemplary academic achievements and provide outstanding educational experiences to students.

Superintendent León expressed great pride in this accomplishment stating, “Technology High School's dedication to creating a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment has earned the school this esteemed accolade”. He added, “I am extremely proud of Principal Edwin Reyes, the school’s administration, teachers, and staff for their commitment, unwavering dedication, and tireless efforts in supporting and inspiring our students. The students at Technology High School and their families are an example of the greatness of Newark.”

In order to qualify for this prestigious recognition, schools must demonstrate significant academic progress and achievement. Additionally, they must exhibit excellence in teaching and leadership, and show a strong commitment to improving education outcomes for all students.

Principal Reyes, excitingly shared, "Receiving the Blue Ribbon School Award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of our students, staff, parents, and the entire school community. We are committed to providing a world-class education that prepares our students for a bright future in an ever-evolving technological landscape."

Technology High School proudly joins the Newark Public Schools list of Blue Ribbon Schools Recipients (Ann Street School, Harriet Tubman School, Branch Brook School, and Science Park High School.)

For more information about Technology High School and its commitment to academic excellence and innovation, please visit https://newark.apppresser.com/tec/.

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.

Newark Public Schools Receives an $8.9 Million Grant to Transform Student Wellness and Equity

[Newark, NJ] Newark Public Schools, the largest school district in New Jersey, is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to address critical inequities in student access to health, mental health, economic, and social resources with an $8.9M grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Congress established the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in 1992 to make substance use and mental disorder information, services, and research more accessible.

This new grant initiative, Project AWARE Newark, is a visionary undertaking that aims to create a culturally and linguistically-relevant, trauma-informed learning environment that fosters student well-being and resilience in one of the state's most diverse and under-resourced communities. Project AWARE Newark comprises several overarching goals and specific objectives.

In recognition of challenges experienced while accessing these resources, Project AWARE Newark seeks to enhance equitable access, experiences, and outcomes for its 39,000 students. This includes historically underserved racial/ethnic communities, LGBTQI+ students, and those with severe emotional disturbance/severe mental illness (SED/SMI).

“We are humbled and honored to accept this grant, which will help the district establish transformative socio-emotional programs,” stated Superintendent Roger León. “This grant represents not only represents a financial investment, but a profound belief in the power of empathy, understanding, and resilience to create a brighter and more connected world.”

Under Project AWARE Newark, Newark Public Schools will collaborate closely with the New Jersey State Education Agency (NJSEA), New Jersey State Mental Health Agency (NJSMHA), and Newark community mental health agencies to establish a comprehensive tiered system of equitable mental health supports. Through Project AWARE Newark, students will receive increased access to culturally and linguistically competent and affirming mental health supports and services, all thoughtfully organized under the district’s tiered system of supports.

Tier 1: A culturally-aligned, affirming socio-emotional universal curriculum will be implemented for all students, including those with SED/SMI. Empowering messaging will be disseminated through school assemblies and safe spaces like after-school clubs to promote affinity spaces for historically marginalized youth.

Tiers 2 & 3: Partnerships with various community organizations specializing in mental health will bring in school-based mental health clinicians trained in providing affirming small group and individual mental health care for LGBTQI+ youth, SED/SMI youth, and youth from historically underserved racial/ethnic communities. Research-based wellness and resilience interventions, such as Sources of Strength, Question. Persuade. Refer, Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools, Trauma-focused CBT, and Signs of Suicide, will be implemented.
Board President Asia J. Norton said, “Newark Public Schools is committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Project AWARE Newark represents a significant step toward achieving this vision, ultimately leading to a more equitable and inclusive educational community.”

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 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.

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.

Newark Public Schools Welcomes A Brand New Day with an Exciting Start to the 2023-24 School Year

Brand New DayThe start of the school year in Newark has been simply remarkable. As the District welcomes back students and staff from summer vacation, the implementation of the historic ten-year strategic plan and the hard work of everyone involved is yielding intended results.

The start of every school year brings about a sense of excitement and hope, but the intentionality of the work in Newark is signaling a move toward A Brand New Day. This is clearly evidenced by the increases in student enrollment, the District's response to the national teacher shortage, and progress on student achievement. Enrollment is at an all-time high, vacancies are at an all-time low, and student achievement is at unprecedented levels.

Over the summer, Principals, school administrators, teachers and staff, and central office employees have been working diligently in preparation for this school year with professional development opportunities and curriculum upgrades. In collaboration with the Council of the Great City Schools and the College Board more specifically, teachers have been preparing during the summer for students this school year unlike ever before.

The District expanded its summer offerings to students across the city in Newark. The elementary programs included a wide range of options including: Summer Plus (with a mandatory component in the elementary grades), K-Ready Kindergarten Bootcamp for rising Kindergarten children, English Plus for second language learners, Extended School Year provided 28 additional days of instruction and services for children with exceptionalities, Alvin Ailey Dance Camp, Summer STEM Academy, Summer Sports Camp, and Summer Visual & Performing Arts Academy.

This summer, high school students were presented with a choice of 19 programs held at 16 locations inclusive of district high schools, Seton Hall University, Misa Hylton Fashion Academy, Clara Maass Hospital, Montclair State University, NJIT, and locations in Minnesota. The Future Leaders Program was reinstated, employing high school students in central office departments, where they gained valuable work experience. This was the fourth summer of implementation of modules for credit recovery. The District began to implement this strategy during last school year as well, and its success, will also be implemented during this school year. This strategy is part of the At-Promise Initiative in the elementary grades, which is maximizing resources and services for students in their redefined alternative education program and helping them to unlock their full potential. At both the elementary and high school levels, students were tasked with a purposefully curated Summer Reading list, inclusive of thoughtful activities students will share with their teachers and classmates in the coming days and weeks.

With boundless enthusiasm and excitement, Superintendent León welcomed over 8,000 district staff at the 6th Annual District Staff Convocation declaring, “The convocation is symbolic of our shared commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers. As we gather to celebrate our progress, we eagerly anticipate the challenges and triumphs of the future. A Brand New Day signifies the fresh perspectives and innovative approaches we bring to teaching and learning in Newark."

This year's convocation encapsulated the spirit of renewal, growth, and the infinite possibilities that await. Superintendent Leόn's transformative journey has led to remarkable progress and innovations within the District, fostering a positive culture and climate and an environment of excellence and camaraderie.

Superintendent Leόn wrapped up the convocation by recognizing employees who have dedicated 25 years or more of service to the District.  He also charged each staff member to call five students to remind them of the importance of attending school on the first day and to help them start the school year strong, a part of his Give Me 5 Campaign to improve attendance.

The District starts the 2023-24 school year with the lowest number of vacancies in the past five years, over 600 new instructional and non-instructional hires.

NPS CaresIn addition, central office staff members will continue the tradition of supporting Principals on the first and second day of school. Their role is to help the Principals create a welcoming and engaging school environment by doing whatever needs to be done to ensure learning takes place on day one and to let them know that NPS Cares.

"As we embark on this new school year, I wish all of our students, teachers, and everyone who play a role in educating our children, a much successful school year. We look forward to celebrating all that you will achieve this year," said Asia Norton, Board President.

In Newark Public Schools, Every day matters. Every moment counts!

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.

Superintendent León Celebrates the Noteworthy Accomplishments of the Graduating Class of 2023

The hard work, dedication, and perseverance of the 2,649 graduating seniors in the Class of 2023 are undeniable, and they are primed and ready to influence the world. Collectively, they have earned over $94 Million in college scholarships, and by taking college courses while in high school, they saved their families $12.8 Million in tuition costs.

And, the accomplishments continue with 162 seniors also earning Associates Degrees and having already graduated from college before graduating from high school today. This is the highest number of students from Newark to ever graduate from high school and college in the same year. These same students will be earning bachelor’s degrees in just two more years.

As part of our nationally recognized Red Hawks Rising Teacher Academy with Montclair State University and the American Federation of Teachers, 22 of our graduating seniors will sign teaching contracts with the Newark Public Schools for $62,000 in addition to their High School diploma so they can teach in our schools when they successfully complete college in 2027.

Twenty-two additional students who are graduating from our specialized schools and who participated in a pilot program with our Facilities Department will be hired upon graduation today and will begin working in the district beginning next month.

Recognizing that this senior class had an unparalleled high school experience, they were also guided by the district’s historic ten-year strategic plan, The Next Decade: 2020–30, Superintendent Roger Leὀn said, “You faced a global pandemic, unlike anyone’s high school experience in history, and yet, here you are today, emerging victorious, strengthened by a unique perspective that will allow you to always be confident, strong, resilient, poised, and steadfast in reaching your goals.” He continued, “We are proud of you, your families, and the administrators, teachers, and staff who all join me in celebrating your greatness.”

These amazing seniors have been accepted into some of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the nation in record numbers such as Yale, Cornell, Brown, Harvard, Princeton, John Hopkins, Lincoln, Morgan State, Delaware State, Fayetteville State, Howard, Spelman College, Xavier, West Virginia State, Florida A&M, Tuskegee, Winston-Salem State, Clark Atlanta, Morehouse College, Norfolk State, Drew, NJIT, Montclair State University, and Rutgers to name a few.

"This exceptional group of students has demonstrated remarkable achievements and has become a source of pride for our community. As Board President, I commend their dedication, hard work, and perseverance. The Newark Board of Education salutes the Class of 2023 and wishes them every success on their extraordinary journey." - Asia J Norton, Board President

Congratulations to the Class of 2023!