Message from the SuperintendentDear Teachers and Instructional Staff,
As shared in the previous newsletter, here are a few highlights of upcoming District events. May 27 - All City Budding Dancers: This event will showcase a collaborative dance performance of students in grades 3-8 from throughout the City. District dance educators at each school prepare and rehearse individual dance selections with students at their respective school locations. Students then come together on the day of the event for a group rehearsal and final performance. This wonderful event will be at First Avenue School and begins at 5:00 pm.  May 28 - Principal for a Day: As part of this District-wide program, each principal has identified and invited a Community Leader, Entrepreneur, CEO, Producer, Artist, etc. to participate as the Principal for a Day (PFAD). The guest PFAD at each school will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the evolving responsibilities of school leadership and teaching techniques to meet the diverse needs of students, interact with both faculty and students, perform specific administrative tasks, and ensure they are creating a meaningful positive influence. Through this commitment and reciprocal partnership, the District continues to foster robust relationships between schools and the community.
May 28 - Math Olympics: The 37th Annual Newark Math Olympics will be held at the Robert Treat Hotel. The competitions include Middle School Math, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Precalculus, and Calculus. Over 780 students from 56 schools will be competing - so exciting! May 29 - Vocal Jubilee: This event will be at Newark Symphony Hall and begins at 5:00 pm. The Office of Visual & Performing Arts (OVPA) continues to showcase the incredible talent of our students in grades 6-12 from schools across the District. A big thank you to them, music teachers, and accompanying chaperones in our schools. May 31 - Elementary Basketball Championships: Get ready for an exciting showcase of young basketball talent! These games will be held at Malcolm X Shabazz High School - the girls tip off at 10:30 am and the boys’ game starts at 12:00 pm. Come cheer on the teams as they compete for the title and bragging rights for the year!  June 3 - Seal of Biliteracy Event: This event will be held at East Side High School at 5:00 pm. We have over 400 students who have successfully completed and qualify for this recognition. The Bilingual Department and Bilingual staff across the schools should be very proud of this major accomplishment.
June 4 - R.A.M.P. Concert: The annual Recorder Arts for Musical Pathways (R.A.M.P.) event will be at NJPAC at 10:00 am. This event will feature third and fourth grade students from Newark Public Schools, showcasing their musical talents and progress in learning to read music and play the recorder. The concert will celebrate the culmination of their hard work throughout the year. June 4 - Academic Awards Night: I am hosting this annual event for seniors in the Class of 2025 who have an overall GPA of 3.5 or higher. This year, we have the largest number of seniors who meet this criteria - 631 seniors. In the presence of their principals, families, and staff, seniors are called by GPA to receive a medallion to be worn at graduation, proclamations, and gifts. The event is followed by dinner. We will find out that evening the senior with the highest GPA in Newark. Who will that senior be and from what high school? School counselors, senior class and National Honor Society advisors, and homeroom teachers are reminded to make sure that students and their guests are notified, if you have not already done so. This event will be held at Central High School and will begin at 5:00 pm sharp. June 5 - All City Theater Festival: This event will be held at Newark Vocational High School and begins at 5:00 pm. This is OVPA’s first year of the celebration designed to enhance the rigor and participation in District theater programs, celebrate the talents of student thespians across the City, and highlight outstanding teaching. Performance genres may include drama, comedy, spoken word, and theatre. June 6 - Senior Day: I am taking seniors from the Class of 2025 who have met graduation requirements to Forest Lodge. Senior class advisors, homeroom teachers, and chaperones are reminded to set expectations, secure permission slips, and tell seniors to get ready for lots of fun, including lunch. This will be the largest gathering of seniors who qualify for graduation. The number in attendance will be well over 2,800 seniors. Incredible.  June 7 - Cheerleading Championship: Our cheerleaders have been demonstrating their strength, athleticism, school pride, and spirit all season. The finals showcase will be spectacular! Come show your support at Weequahic High School - doors open at 11:30 am.
Week of June 9 - STEM Week: Middle school students will engage in interdisciplinary lessons around the topics of Building a Lunar Colony, Urban Farming, and Surgical Techniques. The week-long event will culminate in a showcase of student learning. Looking forward to seeing all the great work of our students and their teachers! Fashion through the Arts - June 10: Students from the Newark School of Fashion and Design will showcase their original designs at the school's inaugural fashion show, taking place at Newark Vocational High School on June 10 at 5:00 pm. The event will be hosted by Shannon LaNier, an Emmy Award-winning news anchor, actor, and fatherhood influencer, who currently stars in Tyler Perry’s feature film Duplicity. The fashion show will mark the grand finale in celebrating the school's first graduating class, led by Principal Sakina Pitts. Any NBOE staff who are interested in purchasing a ticket to the show, click on link - https://fashionthroughthearts.eventbrite.com. June 12 - Teacher of the Year Ceremony: New Jersey has an annual event where one teacher of the year is to be selected from each district, and then amongst those teachers, the state selects the one teacher to represent the state. In Newark, the state’s largest district, we have so many qualifying teachers for this honor that we just can’t pick one. On this day, we host a breakfast to honor one teacher from each school, identified by each school, for this District honor. We will learn at this event who is the one teacher who will represent Newark because the state still only allows districts to make one recommendation. The Office of Educator Effectiveness and school leaders help make this event possible. Who will that teacher be and from what school? June 13 - Night at the Museum: Join us for an exciting evening of exploration and learning! The Office of Early Childhood invites all preschool and kindergarten families in the District to the 12th Annual Night at the Museum, a special event representing a key District initiative, and held in partnership with the Newark Museum. Families will enjoy hands-on activities, engaging exhibits, and take-home materials that support early learning. Don’t miss this memorable night designed to spark curiosity and celebrate education. Click here to register and be a part of the fun!  Newark Games - June 17: Save the date for the First Annual Newark Games! This incredible District-wide event will be taking place at Newark Schools Stadium. The Office of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics is spearheading this unforgettable celebration of culture, cooperation, and competition.
June 24 - Commencement Exercises: This is such an exciting day where hard work and commitment to excellence yields one (of many more to come) major accomplishment in the incredible lives of our students. The Superintendent’s $4,000 Scholarship goes to one Senior from each high school at the graduation ceremony. We will also distribute two laptops to two Seniors at the ceremony. Who will these 3 Seniors be from each high school? Job well done by all of our students and a big thank you to their parents, families, friends, teachers, school administrators, and staff. To the 8th graders, we are so proud of you. We see you too and are honored that you are coming to our high schools. Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Superintendent León |
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Culture and Climate SurveyIn alignment with The Next Decade: 2020-30 Strategic Plan Priority 3 - Strategy 3.1, students, parents/caregivers, and staff are to complete a culture and climate survey annually. Data from this survey will be shared with District and School Leaders to assist in preparing for the 2025-2026 school year. The survey is now open and will close on Friday, June 13, 2025. Please click on the link below to access and review suggested methods and means to promote completion and distribution. Remember, the information will be used to determine trends, areas of success/growth, and needed programming that will enhance your school community. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Student Life: |
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Nominate A 2025-2026 Governor's STEM Scholar (New)Contact: Kathleen Tierney, Office of Science
Email: ktierney@nps.k12.nj.us  The Governor's STEM Scholars is an opportunity for high school students who are passionate about STEM to attend STEM conferences, network with STEM professionals, visit STEM facilities, and conduct STEM research.
All interested students who meet the eligibility criteria should apply using the link in the attached document: |
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Inspire Science Grades 9-12 Initial Training (New)Contact: Tracy Cummings, Office of Science
Email: tcummings@nps.k12.nj.us  Science Summer Professional Development
Educators will engage in learning opportunities to enhance their understanding and instructional delivery of the Inspire Science curriculum. This will include building knowledge of the components used, building a basic understanding of the digital teacher and student center, and an overview of the module and lesson structure.
Each session is: - 2 hours
- Conducted by a McGraw-Hill Curriculum Specialist
The registration details are linked here. Upon completing the session, participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance. |
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Participate in the Summer Learning Challenge to Win $1000!Contact: Matt Brewster, Office of Staff Development
Email: MBrewster@nps.k12.nj.us Our District will be participating in the Summer Learning Challenge with the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA) and AT&T's Achievery. This collaboration aims to enhance online learning opportunities for older youth and to help prevent the summer slide. Achievery is a digital learning platform that empowers students with engaging learning activities. Teachers, students (age 14+), parents, and caregivers can use our unique link to sign up for a FREE account: https://bit.ly/42JFLfc Teachers are eligible to receive $1000 in instructional supplies and materials for utilizing Achievery and participating in the Summer Learning Challenge! Achievery-FAQs.pdf |
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Get Ready for the First Annual Newark Games (Updated)Contact: Elizabeth Aranjo, Office of Health, Physical Education & Athletics
Email: earanjo@nps.k12.nj.us
The Office of Health, Physical Education, & Athletics is thrilled to announce that the First Annual Newark Games, a district-wide celebration of unity, school pride, and student collaboration through spirited competition and cultural representation, will be taking place on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at Newark Schools Stadium. The Newark Games will bring together 40 students from every school across the district to represent one of sixteen countries in a series of fun and challenging events designed to promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and cultural pride. The sixteen countries this year represent the sixteen most highly represented nations of our student body in an homage to the children and their families. Inspired by a camp-like structure at Frost Valley, this event will encourage students across grade levels to work together in cooperative games, problem-solving challenges, and athletic activities-all in pursuit of the ultimate prize: the GOLD. Teams will have the opportunity to also win silver, bronze, spirit, and sportsmanship awards. All other participating students will also be recognized. Homeroom teachers should share with students the country that the school is representing. This event will be more than just a day of games-it's a powerful opportunity to build community across schools, highlight student leadership, and embrace global awareness through friendly competition. Principals have received important guidance in preparation of this incredible event; please see them for information on how to serve on your school's committee. In anticipation, a school pep rally will be judged by a representative(s) from Central Office on June 16, 2025 at 1:30 pm. Let's make the first Newark Games an unforgettable celebration of culture, cooperation, and competition! Let the Newark Games begin!
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Summer Reading Launch - June 12th (New)  Contact: Jazleen Othman, Office of English Language Arts
Email: jothman@nps.k12.nj.us We’re excited to kick off Summer Reading 2025 on June 12th! On this day, all PreK–12 students will receive their summer reading book. Teachers will lead an engaging launch activity that provides students with an opportunity to learn more about their required readings.  Families will also receive a special letter from Superintendent León detailing Summer Reading on June 12, 2025. Full details can be found here. |
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ELA Residency Opportunities (New)Contact: Jazleen Othman, Office of English Language Arts
Email: jothman@nps.k12.nj.us The Office of English Language Arts is offering a range of professional development residencies shaped by teacher feedback and student performance data. Insights from surveys and classroom trends helped identify areas where support is needed. Our goal is to provide meaningful, relevant learning experiences that enhance instructional practices and positively impact student outcomes.
For information regarding each opportunity, click here. |
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Summer Ed Tech PD Academy (New)Contact: Michael Padilla, Office of Instructional Technology
Email: m4padilla@nps.k12.nj.us The Office of Instructional Technology is excited to share information on our Summer Ed Tech PD courses. Please view this brochure with more information on the courses, as well as links to sign up. Afternoon and morning sessions will be offered and all sessions will take place at the Dr. Marion A. Bolden Student Center. Staff will be paid to attend and space is limited! |
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Cycle 4 24-25 Report Card Timeline and Requirements - Teachers (New)Contact: Darren Watsky, Student Information Services
Email: dwatsky@nps.k12.nj.us All Cycle 4 grades and comments must be finalized in PowerTeacher Pro by the end of the school day on Monday, June 16th.
Use the Cycle 4 Report Card Timeline and Requirements document to prepare for the storing of Cycle 4 grades. All subjects should have a grade and/or comment. For subjects not assessed this cycle, include a comment that the student is not in the class this grading period. Grade changes after June 20th require a grade change form submission. If you have questions, please consult with your administrator(s). |
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Teach Adult Education Classes (New)Contact: Andre Hollis, Adult Education
Email: a1hollis@nps.k12.nj.us  In partnership with Newark Public Library, the Newark Public Schools Adult Education department presents "Discover, Grow, and Thrive: Adult Education Summer Sessions - Enroll Now."
Dates: July 9, 2025 - August 9, 2025 - Wednesdays 5:45pm - 7:45pm
- Saturdays 11:00am - 1:00pm
Classes will be held at various library locations throughout the City of Newark. - Springfield Branch - 50 Hayes Street (GED)
- Van Buren Branch - 140 Van Buren Street (ESL)
- Weequahic Branch - 355 Osbourne Terrace (GED)
- North End Branch - 722 Summer Avenue ( ESL)
Interested teachers should apply here and complete JobID: 1832 |
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Professional Development Opportunities (New)Contact: Jennifer Rodriguez, Office of Federal Programs & Grants
Email: j20rodriguez@nps.k12.nj.us  Teaching Health & Boosting Student Self-Esteem
Through the CDC Grant awarded to the NBOE, the Office of Health and Physical Education has partnered with Answer, an organization based at Rutgers University, to provide professional development opportunities for District staff. The workshops will be virtual and during after-school hours. Registration is now open through Whetstone.
Please see the attached flyer for the registration links: Creating More Supportive & Inclusive Environments
Through the CDC Grant awarded to the NBOE, the Office of Federal Programs and Grants has partnered with Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan NJ (PPMNJ) to offer various resources, workshops, and professional development opportunities for school staff and families. In June, PPMNJ will facilitate 2 virtual afterschool professional development sessions on creating a more supportive and inclusive learning environment. Registration is now open through Whetstone. Please see the attached flyer for more information and the registration links: Supporting At-Risk Youth & Building Resilience
Thanks to funds from the CDC Grant awarded to the NBOE, the District has partnered with Family Connections to support schools in creating safe and supportive environments. In June, Family Connections will facilitate 2 virtual afterschool professional development sessions focused on Supporting At-Risk Youth and Supporting Resilience and Building Community. Registration is now open through Whetstone. Please see the attached flyer for more information and the registration links: |
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Montclair State University’s Bilingual/Bicultural and ESL Programs (New)Contact: Claire Emmanuel, Human Resource Services
Email: cemmanuel@nps.k12.nj.us This will be an opportunity to have questions answered and to gain insights about our program through this partnership. NOTE: Current NJ teacher certification is required to apply for these programs. (Teachers who do not hold a CEAS or Standard Instructional Certification MUST have completed an Alternate Route program in their primary certification area.) Kindly complete the interest form below based on your desired program: |
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New Teacher Induction NBOE/MSU (New)Contact: HRS - Office of Educator Effectiveness
Email: evaluations@nps.k12.nj.us New Teacher Induction sessions will be held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Teachers should attend 6 of the 10 sessions during the school year. Please register for the next New Teacher Induction session scheduled for Tuesday, June 10th; 3:30-5:30pm. Registration and meeting links for each month can be found in the induction schedule linked here. |
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Mental Health Workshops for ParentsContact: Muddasra Munir, Office of Federal Programs and Grants
Email: mmunir@nps.k12.nj.us Through the Project AWARE grant, the Office of Federal Programs and Grants, in partnership with the Office of Student Life, is hosting various mental health workshops for parents, both virtually and in person. These educational workshops will be conducted in English, Spanish, and Portuguese to ensure accessibility for our diverse community. |
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Mentorship Logs and License Renewal RequestContact: Human Resource Services - Office of Staffing and Certifications
Email: certifications@nps.k12.nj.us Mentorship logs are due Monday, June 9, 2025. Please use the following links for additional submission details: Expiring Provisional and Emergency Licenses: Please complete the following link if your Provisional or Emergency license is expiring in July of 2025: For additional inquiries, contact certifications@nps.k12.nj.us. |
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Escrow Program (Open Enrollment and Refund Dates)Contact: Human Resource Services
Email: npscompensation@nps.k12.nj.us - Escrow Open Enrollment for current and newly hired employees is May 1st through September 15th of each year!
- Employees who are 10-month and 11-month full time employees can now self-enroll, discontinue, and switch options in the Escrow Program.
- For more information about refund dates, view deduction selected through ESS (Employee Self Service), and instructions on how to enroll or initiate a refund, kindly visit our HRS Portal at https://nboehrs.com/es/#escrow or view attached:
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Job Announcements Contact: Ivette Toledo, Human Resource Services
Email: humanresources@nps.k12.nj.us
Exciting job opportunities await! Discover the latest positions now posted on Frontline. |
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2024-2025 Discretionary FundsContact: MJames, Human Resource Services
Email: mjames@nps.k12.nj.us Dear Teachers, Nurses, and Academic Interventionists: As per District policy, in order to be reimbursed in the amount of $150.00 for items that supplement and affect your work with pupils this school year, you will be providing your receipts to your location treasurer. Please be guided by the Discretionary Fund Memo below: If you have any questions, please speak to your school administrator. |
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Mandatory Affirmative Action TrainingContact: Nichola Camacho, HRS - Affirmative Action
Email: ncamacho@nps.k12.nj.us Board policy requires all employees to complete annual Affirmative Action training. All training courses launched on February 19, 2025. You will receive an email from the Newark Board of Education containing a link to log in to Vector Solutions using your District email and password. Each training course includes an assessment that must be completed. A certificate can be saved or printed after successfully completing each assigned training course. You must complete all required courses by May 30, 2025. 2024-2025 NBOE Annual Affirmative Action Training Courses | Course Name | Course Assignment | | Discrimination Awareness in the Workplace | All Staff | | Sexual Harassment: Staff-to-Staff | All Staff |
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Culture & Climate Annual Calendar SY24-25Contact: Rania Sawaged, Student Support Services - Office of Student Life
Email: rsawaged@nps.k12.nj.us Review the Culture & Climate Calendar SY 2024-2025. This calendar is suggested to be utilized as a guide and reference when planning for required/suggested activities, service/community projects, and additional school events throughout the school year. To streamline the artifact collection process, each month, the principal will designate one person from your school to be in charge of uploading pictures and artifacts to the relevant slide assigned to your school.
Please reference the due dates and directions. |
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NBOE in the NewsStay informed on everything happening within Newark Public Schools and the Newark Board of Education! Read up on all of the many ways the district is garnering media coverage. Press Releases |
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 | Teacher Talk is emailed every other Monday. The submission deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday. |
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Contact Us To support and encourage highly effective instruction, Teacher Talk synthesizes information and resources that will help NPS teachers meet the expectations of the framework for effective teaching. Please open the form with Firefox or Chrome in order to add attachments.
You may submit items for inclusion in the Teacher Talk newsletter via this form:
https://www.nps.k12.nj.us/departments/communications/teacher-talk-form/ The weekly submission deadline is Wednesday by 5:00 p.m. before Monday distribution. |
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