West Side High School Senior Melissa Santiago Earns $2,500 Award Following National Recognition for District's Transportation Department
NEWARK, N.J. — West Side High School senior Melissa Santiago has been named the inaugural recipient of the Newark Public Schools’ Modern Student Transportation Scholarship. Santiago will attend Seton Hall University this fall and intends to major in psychology.
She hopes to work with younger students in schools and use her own experiences to encourage them to overcome challenges and believe in their potential.
“I want to work with younger children and tell them about my journey and how I overcame challenges when things were hard,” Santiago said. “I want them to know they can do anything if they put their minds to it.”
Santiago described her senior year as difficult at times, citing challenges at home that could have derailed her plans. Instead, she remained focused on her education and her future goals. Upon learning she had been selected as the scholarship's first recipient, she said she felt “so great and proud” of herself.
“Melissa’s story exemplifies resilience, determination, and the power of perseverance,” said Superintendent León. “Despite facing personal challenges, she remained focused on her goals and never lost sight of her future. Her commitment to education and her desire to help others make her a remarkable representative of Newark Public Schools. We are proud to celebrate her achievements and excited to see the impact she will make in the years ahead.”
The $2,500 scholarship was presented to Santiago during a surprise ceremony attended by Santiago’s classmates, teachers, administrators, and representatives from the district’s Pupil Transportation Department. The scholarship was established as part of an award the department received, the 2025 Modern Student Transportation Award – Top Innovator, a national honor recognizing excellence and innovation in student transportation services.
Santiago was selected through a competitive application process that evaluated students’ academic achievement, personal essays, recommendations, and community involvement. The scholarship was created to support Newark Public Schools students with special needs who are pursuing postsecondary education and demonstrating perseverance, achievement, and leadership.
Quanika Dukes-Spruill, Director of Student Transportation, said Santiago stood out among a strong field of applicants.
“Melissa’s application immediately captured our attention,” Dukes-Spruill said. “Her personal statement reflected both her strength and her compassion for others. She has already overcome obstacles that would discourage many people, yet she remains committed to serving others and making a difference. That combination of resilience and purpose made her an outstanding choice as the inaugural recipient of this scholarship.”
In addition to the $2,500 scholarship, the Office of Pupil Transportation announced that it will provide transportation support during Santiago’s first year at Seton Hall University, helping remove barriers as she begins her college journey.
“Throughout her time at West Side High School, Melissa Santiago has demonstrated resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to her future, even when faced with challenges that might have discouraged others,” said Principal Akbar Cook. “We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and grateful that this scholarship recognizes not only her academic success, but also her character and perseverance. Melissa’s journey is an inspiration to her classmates and a reminder that with hard work and support, our students can achieve extraordinary things.”
Board of Education President Hasani K. Council said the scholarship reflects the district’s commitment to ensuring every student has access to opportunities for success.
“This scholarship represents what Newark Public Schools is all about—identifying potential, removing barriers, and helping students achieve their dreams,” Council said. “Melissa has demonstrated tremendous courage and determination, and we are proud to support her as she takes this important next step. We also commend the Office of Pupil Transportation for turning a national award into a meaningful investment in one of our students.”
During the ceremony, school and district leaders congratulated Santiago and her fellow Essex County College dual enrollment students as they prepare to graduate and pursue college and career opportunities.