NEWARK, N.J. – Newark Public Schools celebrated a record 81 students who participated in the District’s Future Business Leaders Program during a culminating event held Friday, August 7.

The Future Business Leaders Program provides students with meaningful workplace experiences designed to strengthen career-readiness skills, build confidence and prepare them to succeed in professional environments.

Twenty students worked in the District’s Central Office, gaining firsthand experience in departments that included Information Technology, the Office of the School Business Administrator, Payroll, Grants, Human Resources and other administrative offices.

The remaining 61 students worked in schools. Their responsibilities included supporting staff, assisting with program operations and welcoming visitors. Some students led tours of high schools participating in the District’s Jump Start program, including Central High School, where visitors learned about the school’s dental career pathway.

“The Future Business Leaders Program gives our students the opportunity to see themselves as capable and valued members of a professional team,” said Superintendent León. “Through meaningful assignments, mentorship and direct exposure to the workplace, students developed skills that will serve them well in college, their careers and every endeavor they pursue.”

The culminating event gave students an opportunity to reflect on and showcase their summer experiences. The program included presentations highlighting their work, mock job interviews, a résumé-writing workshop and the presentation of certificates recognizing each student’s successful participation.

“This program allows students to move beyond learning about careers and begin experiencing the expectations and responsibilities of the workplace,” said Newark Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “We are proud of the record number of students who took advantage of this opportunity and grateful to the employees who guided and encouraged them throughout the summer.”

The Future Business Leaders Program continues to expand opportunities for Newark students to develop communication, collaboration, problem-solving, time-management and other essential professional skills.