About Our School

Thalia Brownridge-Smith, Principal

Mission Statement

At Thirteenth Avenue School, our mission is to ignite a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education, fostering an environment where students feel empowered to thrive through critical thinking, collaboration, and confident communication. Our commitment extends to ensuring that students, staff, and caregivers are safe, supported, and encouraged to realize their highest potential. Through strategic partnerships, we enhance the quality of life of all stakeholders, creating an inclusive environment where all members of our community flourish.

Vision

13^th Avenue School is a place where students are eager to attend and receive a quality education, teachers are supported and provided with effective professional development, and parents are excited about the high standard of education and strong home – school connection.

Core Beliefs

Be

Dream

New Year 2025: Thirteenth Avenue School Community

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Happy New Year! I hope this message finds you and your families well and ready for a successful 2025. We are excited to welcome our students back and continue the journey of learning and growth this school year.

I am pleased to announce the launch of our Saturday Academy, designed to provide additional support and enrichment opportunities for students who have received invitations. This program will help strengthen key skills and ensure that students are on track for success. If your child received an invitation, please take advantage of this valuable opportunity.

Please mark your calendars for Parent-Teacher Conferences, scheduled for Thursday, February 13, 2025. This is a great time to connect with your child’s teacher(s) and discuss their progress. Additionally, we invite you to attend the Community Budget Meeting that evening at 6:00 p.m.. Your input is vital as we plan for the future of our school.

We understand that the winter months bring colder temperatures, but it is critical that students attend school every day. Research shows that consistent attendance significantly impacts student achievement. Let’s work together to ensure that our students are present and prepared to learn each day.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we can help our students achieve their greatest potential.

Warm regards,
Thalia Brownridge-Smith
Principal
Thirteenth Avenue School
"The Pride of Newark"

Our School in the News

NBOE Educators Celebrate Academic Achievement at Montclair State Winter Commencement

February 26, 2025

From left: Joseph DeRisi (Hawthorne), Susana Pena (Mt. Vernon), Marcela Palma (Louis A. Spencer), Stephania Corneille (Ivy Hill), Nesary Cruz (Chancellor), Yvonne Copprue-McLeod (Peshine), Natasha Stevenson (Lincoln), Jennifer Ragonese (George Washington Carver), Zadia Ballard (Hawthorne), Karima Onque (13th Avenue), Angelica Rodriquez (13th Avenue), Diane Phillips (Belmont); Students from Louise A. Spencer Montclair State University (MSU) […]

Office of Attendance Holiday Collaboration

January 2, 2025

Newark Board of Education Office of Attendance hosted our annual “Holiday Blessing Initiative” that partners with agencies and stakeholders in the city of Newark. We delivered cheer, love, hope and gifts to scholars throughout our school district. Through this collaboration it is the goal to provide intentional supports that continue motivating and igniting the importance […]

Newark Transforms Auditoriums for Student and Community Use

June 17, 2024

Thirteenth Avenue upgraded auditorium In line with The Next Decade: 2020-30 Strategic Plan, Priority 1.5 focuses on developing a capital strategy that aligns with the Long-Range Facilities Plan. This strategy aims to modernize all facilities while considering enrollment projections, academic programs, and community needs. The Facilities Team has been diligently working to upgrade and modernize […]

Newark Empowers Parents and Communities Through the Parenting Partners Program

June 17, 2024

Parenting Partners participate at Luis Munoz Marin The Office of Federal Programs & Grants is excited about the partnership with Parenting Partners. This program highlights Newark Public School’s commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative educational environment. Using a train-the-trainer model, this program aligns with Strategy 4.7 of the Next Decade: 2020-30 Strategic Plan. The […]

Newark Board of Education Hosts Thrilling Elementary Basketball Event

June 17, 2024

Excitement filled the air at Weequahic High School on Thursday, May 22nd, as the Newark Board of Education hosted an exhilarating elementary basketball event. The atmosphere was electric as the girls’ game unfolded, with Mount Vernon emerging victorious in a hard-fought battle against Elliot Street School. Meanwhile, in the boys’ game, Avon Avenue School narrowly […]

NBOE Maximizes Student Achievement During the Extended School Year

August 21, 2023

Summer Fun Day Activities at Ivy Hill, Rafael Hernandez, Arts High School, and Louise A. Spencer During the summer, the Office of Special Education administered two Extended School Year (ESY) Programs to support over 700 students. ESY provides inclusive opportunities for students to attend the Summer Plus Program with their peers at Belmont Runyon, Chancellor […]