Newark Museum and Newark Public School Share Fun Summer Learning Activities with Parents, Children

“Night at the Museum” features early childhood resources and programs that prevent summer learning loss

[Newark, NJ – June 16, 2016] – Newark Public Schools (NPS) and the Office of Early Childhood co-hosted the fourth annual “Night at the Museum” on Friday at the Newark Museum. The event features fun, meaningful educational activities for parents, teachers and children that support learning at home and prevent summer learning loss.

“The Office of Early Childhood does a tremendous job in making sure the district’s youngest students continue their education in fun and easy ways over the summer months,” said Superintendent Christopher D. Cerf of NPS. “Night at the Museum is a great opportunity to get parents and guardians invested in their children’s education, showcasing all the exciting educational programs available to their children throughout the summer. Thanks to the support of our community partners, Newark’s children will continue to learn and grow over the next few months, ensuring they are ready to hit the ground running when they return to the classroom this September.”

Community agencies like Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN, Department of Children and Families), the Newark Public Library and the Boys and Girls Club were available to provide information for Newark families about the early childhood resources and programs they can access throughout the summer. Additionally, the Newark Museum offered attendees tours of the exhibits and planetarium show screenings.

“We really love hosting these types of events for our students and their families. Engaging with families helps supplement our work in the classroom and ensures that parents, grandparents and guardians become part of their child’s educational success,” said F. Nana Ofosu-Amaah, Executive Director of NPS Office of Early Childhood. “Events like ‘Night at the Museum’ help us ensure that our youngest learners receive the best educational experiences both inside and outside of the classroom, and is just another way the Office of Early Childhood Education tries to make learning fun so that our students’ continue to expand their knowledge and build skills during the summer months.”

Attendees also received free library cards, raffles, prizes and books, as well as a special meet and greet with the “Cookie Monster” from Sesame Street, Clifford the Big Red Dog and literacy educator Ritta Book.

“Night at the Museum” is sponsored by NPS and the Nicholson Foundation with additional support from the United Way, WNET, HITN, NJTV and the Prudential Foundation.