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Bard Early College High School
Bard High School Early College Newark Celebrated Class of 2026 High School Graduation
Bard High School Early College Newark Celebrated Class of 2026 High School Graduation
Newark, NJ – June 23, 2026 – Bard High School Early College Newark proudly announced the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2026, which took place at the Newark Symphony Hall’s Terrace Ballroom. The ceremony commenced at 6:00 PM, celebrating the achievements and milestones of the graduating students. Remarkably, every member of the Class of 2026 successfully earned their high school diploma, continuing the tradition set by the previous graduating class, which also achieved a 100% graduation rate.
Dr. Rafael Inoa, who served as the Principal of Bard High School Early College Newark during the time of the ceremony, but has since transitioned from the role by the date of this press release, began the event with a warm welcome. This year’s Student Speaker was Sheekira King and the keynote address was delivered by Kutorkor Kotey. Ms. Kotey is a distinguished alumna and Product Manager at JPMorgan Chase & Co. Her inspiring career and commitment to empowering the next generation exemplified the values Bard instills in its students.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of diplomas by Dr. Rafael Inoa, alongside Vice Principal Dr. Mini Jayaprakash and Dr. Tiffany Sims, Chair of the Mathematics Department. Riley Shaw-Ledbetter was honored as Valedictorian and Karen Nicole Inahuazo as Salutatorian. The evening also featured student speeches, awards presentations, and a special dance tribute by Aniyla Touchstone of the Class of 2027.
We extended our heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2026 and expressed our gratitude to the families, faculty, staff, and community partners for their unwavering support and dedication. In addition to the high school graduation, the Associate Degree Commencement was held on June 22, 2026. Pictures from the associate degree ceremony will be posted on the school website at a later date.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Cindy Duran, Director of Admissions
Bard High School Early College - Newark
Phone: 973-733-8363 opt. 8
Email: cduran@nullbhsec.bard.edu
Bard High School Early College Professors Presented Important Research at International Conference
Bard High School Early College Professors Presented Important Research at International Conference
Newark, NJ — Bard High School Early College takes immense pride in announcing that our two esteemed faculty members, Dr. Andrew Trevarrow and Dr. Christopher Morabito, were selected to present their pioneering research at the 2026 International Conference of the Children's Literature Association. This prestigious event was held on May 28-30, 2026, in Pittsburgh, PA, and brought together leading experts in literary studies, education, library and information sciences, and publishing.
Dr. Trevarrow and Dr. Morabito, both Assistant Professors of English at Bard High School Early College in Newark, were part of a panel titled “Imagining Queer Neighborhoods, Building Queer Communities.” Their presentations explored the vital role of queer children's and young adult literature in responding to current socio-political challenges and in fostering inclusive spaces for young readers.
Dr. Trevarrow's paper, “Expanding Literary Communities: Queer YA and/as American Literature,” delved into how queer YA novels enrich the American literary landscape by highlighting the diverse experiences of queer teens. This work underscored the importance of representation and community in literature, offering young readers relatable and empowering narratives.
Dr. Morabito's presentation, “Rebuilding Queer Spaces from Memory: YA Historical Fiction as a Blueprint,” examined how historical fiction for young adults reflects and reconstructs queer spaces, providing both a refuge and a roadmap for today's readers amidst evolving societal dynamics.
Bard High School Early College is honored to have such distinguished scholars within our academic community. Their groundbreaking research not only contributed significantly to the field of children's literature but also exemplified the values of inclusivity and innovation that our institution holds dear. For more information about the conference and presentations, please visit the Children's Literature Association 2026 Conference website.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Cindy Duran, Director of Admissions
Bard High School Early College - Newark
Phone: 973-733-8363 opt. 8
Email: cduran@nullbhsec.bard.edu
Bard High School Early College Celebrates Sydney Guillaume’s Induction as New Jersey Governor’s STEM Scholar
Bard High School Early College Celebrates Sydney Guillaume’s Induction as New Jersey Governor’s STEM Scholar
Newark, NJ – Bard High School Early College (BHSEC) is thrilled to announce that Sydney Guillaume, a first-year college student (junior) at our institution, has been officially inducted as a New Jersey Governor’s STEM Scholar. This prestigious recognition was conferred by the New Jersey Lieutenant Governor on May 9, 2026.
As a participant in this highly selective program, Sydney engaged in a year-long STEM research and development project, collaborating closely with a team under the guidance of esteemed STEM professionals from across New Jersey. Throughout the program, Sydney attended weekly virtual and in-person meetings, participated in STEM conferences at renowned institutions such as Princeton University, NJIT, Rutgers University, and Kean University, and contributed to groundbreaking research focused on improving air quality in the City of Newark.
The culmination of Sydney’s hard work and dedication was showcased during the Governor’s STEM Scholar Research Showcase on May 9. There, she and her team presented an innovative air filtration solution, demonstrating their findings to an audience of STEM professionals and program leaders from across the state.
At Bard High School Early College, we are committed to supporting student achievement and recognizing those who participate in impactful external programs. Sydney’s accomplishment is not only a testament to her hard work but also highlights the opportunities available to our students. We extend our gratitude to the educators and staff who introduced Sydney to this exceptional program, fostering an environment where such achievements are possible.
For more information about Sydney Guillaume’s remarkable journey and her team’s research, please visit her feature on the Governor’s STEM Scholars website: Governor’s STEM Scholars – Sydney Guillaume.
Additional details regarding the research conducted by Sydney and her team can be found here: Research Information.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Cindy Duran, Director of Admissions
Bard High School Early College - Newark
Phone: 973-733-8363 opt. 8
Email: cduran@nullbhsec.bard.edu
Congratulations to Dr. Louise Chernosky: Quarterfinalist for the 2027 Music Educator Award™
Congratulations to Dr. Louise Chernosky: Quarterfinalist for the 2027 Music Educator Award™
We are thrilled to announce that our esteemed faculty member, Dr. Louise Chernosky, has been named a quarterfinalist for the prestigious 2027 Music Educator Award™, presented by the Recording Academy® and GRAMMY Museum®. This recognition places Dr. Chernosky among an elite group of 202 music educators selected from over 2,100 nominees nationwide.
The Music Educator Award™ honors educators from kindergarten through college who have made significant and lasting contributions to the field of music education. Dr. Chernosky exemplifies this commitment through her dedication to enriching students' lives and nurturing a passion for music.
This accolade not only highlights Dr. Chernosky's exceptional skills and dedication but also emphasizes our institution's commitment to excellence in music education. As a quarterfinalist, Dr. Chernosky is one step closer to potentially being honored during the 2027 GRAMMY Week in Los Angeles, a testament to her remarkable impact and influence in the field.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Chernosky and wish her continued success as the selection process progresses. Her achievement reflects the outstanding talent and hard work present within our educational community.
For more information about the Music Educator Award™ and to view the full list of quarterfinalists, please visit the GRAMMY Museum's official website.
Bard High School Early College Hosts Inspiring National Honor Society Induction Ceremony
Bard High School Early College Hosts Inspiring National Honor Society Induction Ceremony
Bard High School Early College hosted the 2026 National Honor Society Induction Ceremony on Friday, May 29, 2026, a remarkable event that celebrated the achievements and potential of our talented student body. This memorable evening served as a testament to the power of combining talent, hard work, and community spirit.
The ceremony honored our outstanding outgoing officers, President Sheekira King, Vice President Carisma Noziere, Secretary Jais Zurita, Treasurer Jayme Raphael, and Historian Jedidiah Wilson, whose leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on our school community.
We also took this opportunity to welcome the new cohort of student leaders: President Seyi Esan, Vice President Jais Zurita, Secretary Baana Pierre, Treasurer Eden Ta, and Historian Jasmine Bobb. Their enthusiasm and vision promise another successful year ahead for our chapter.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Principal Rafael Inoa, the committed faculty committee, and all the parents and guardians who tirelessly support our students. A special acknowledgment to Dr. Shana Russell, whose keynote address was both inspiring and energizing, and to Mrs. Saint Louis, whose meticulous planning ensured the evening's success. The delightful dinner was the perfect conclusion to a night filled with pride and joy.
During the ceremony, Bard's NHS chapter inducted 20 new members, with their proud families in attendance. Each inductee received a certificate and a gold cord, signifying their commitment to excellence. Additionally, 14 graduating seniors were honored with satin honor stoles to wear at graduation, recognizing their contributions and achievements.
Dr. Betsy Wood, the faculty advisor for Bard's NHS chapter, expertly emceed the event, while Mr. Straubel Cetoute presented the satin honor stoles to the seniors. Principal Inoa provided the welcoming and closing remarks, framing the evening with heartfelt messages.
The highlight of the evening was the ceremonial passing of the torch from this year's officers to the incoming leaders, marked by a special candle lighting ceremony. This symbolic gesture underscored our commitment to nurturing leadership and academic excellence.
Bard High School Early College is proud to continue fostering an environment where students can thrive and achieve remarkable goals. We look forward to witnessing the continued success of our National Honor Society members.