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Dear Teachers and Instructional Staff,

As we approach winter recess, we want to encourage you to take a moment to reflect on all that has been accomplished so far this school year. You and your students have put in unwavering effort, and your students’ progress is a testament to your commitment and dedication. Additionally, please be mindful that the new year provides us with an opportunity to reset and reground ourselves in what is most important to the success and well-being of our students.

As shared during District Staff Convocation 2025 in August, please be reminded that January 2, 2026 is an Administrative Day for all District staff.

On behalf of everyone here at the District, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to you and your families. May your holidays be joyful and the new year bring continued growth and blessings.

Warm regards,
Superintendent León, Deputy Superintendent Severe, and Assistant Superintendent Esteves

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Martha with students

On her very first day of student teaching at Linden Avenue Middle School in Red Hook, N.Y., Martha Strever pushed, pulled and pounded on the school’s door, which was locked. No one came. Where was everybody? It was, after all, the first day of school.

It turned out everybody was exactly where they were supposed to be: inside, having entered through the school’s front entrance. Strever had been knocking on a side door. Flustered but undeterred, she not only found her way inside, she also found her life’s calling.

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Photo credit: SDI Productions / E+ / Getty Images

Paraprofessionals and school-related personnel are often overlooked because of their support roles. They are the last ones hired and often the first ones fired when budgets get tight. This certainly seems true right now as the Trump administration withholds nearly $7 billion in education funds, effective July 1, which has hamstrung summer school programs, hindered English language support, halted professional development this summer, and left before- and after-school programs in limbo for the coming school year.

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Click here for this week's NTU Update


  1. Educators as professionals!
  2. Giving at the Holidays
  3. Share My Lesson - Hanukah
  4. NTU Connect Events - Bowling, Skating, Sip and Paint!
  5. Student Loan Webinar

    AND MORE!


PDF Version

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2026 scholarship flyer

🎓 The NTU Education Foundation is excited to announce the 28th Annual Albert Shanker Scholarship Awards! 🌟

We are proud to continue our tradition of supporting the bright futures of NTU members’ children, NBOE Paraprofessionals, and NBOE students of Newark. Each year, this scholarship highlights students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, character, and a commitment to their school communities.

If you’re eligible—or know a student who is—now is the time to apply!

Requirements include:
✔️ Applicant must have a parent or guardian who is an NTU member or be an NBOE student recommended by an NTU school counselor
✔️ All materials must be submitted by Friday, March 13, 2026
✔️ First-time applicants only (previous recipients and graduate students are not eligible)

📌 Scholarship awards are judged anonymously and based on academics, activities, community service, leadership, and future goals.

🔗 APPLY NOW: Use the QR code or click here.
💬 For questions: ntuscholarshipawards@gmail.com or (973) 643-8430

Let’s celebrate opportunity, achievement, and the next generation of Newark scholars. Spread the word! 💛💙

 

Support the cause by donating today and click here! 

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2026 award recipient flyer

2026 Ad Journal/Ticket Request Form

The NTU Education Foundation proudly presents the 28th Annual Albert Shanker Award Dinner — an evening dedicated to honoring excellence, leadership, and impact within our community.

📅 Wednesday, May 6th, 2026
🕕 6:00 p.m.
📍 Holiday Inn Banquet Hall, 160 Frontage Road, Newark, NJ
🎟️ Tickets: $150

Meet Our 2026 Honorees:

🏅 Sharif A. Farrakhan – NTU Hall of Fame Award
🏅 Awilda Rodriguez – Legacy Award
🏅 Susu Stewart – Community Hero Award

Come celebrate their outstanding achievements and support the incredible work of the NTU Education Foundation!

🔗 Click the link on the flyer for the Ad Journal/Ticket Request Form.
📞 For more information, contact the Foundation at (973) 643-8430 or ntuedfoundation@gmail.com.

Let’s come together for an unforgettable evening of recognition and inspiration! ✨💙💛

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