Press Releases

Newark Public Schools Students Excel at New Jersey Speech and Debate Tournament

Multiple students earn national qualifications across categories

PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. – Newark Public Schools students delivered an outstanding performance at the New Jersey Speech and Debate Tournament, held earlier this month at Phillipsburg High School. Students earned multiple top finishes and securing several national qualifications for the National Speech and Debate Association Championships scheduled to be held in Richmond, Virginia in June.

Students from Science Park High School, Central High School, Barringer High School, Arts High School, and University High School competed across a range of events, demonstrating excellence in argumentation, public speaking, and performance.

Among the highlights, students from Science Park High School earned national qualifications in Policy Debate, while Central High School students captured first place in Duo Interpretation and secured multiple national bids. Students from across the district also qualified for Nationals in Dramatic Interpretation, Original Oratory, and Program of Oral Interpretation.

“This remarkable achievement reflects the intellectual rigor, confidence, and voice that define Newark Public Schools students,” said Superintendent León. “Our students are competing and excelling at the highest levels. Their success is a testament to their hard work and the dedication of our teachers who cultivate these critical thinking and communication skills every day.”

“We are incredibly proud of these students for representing Newark with distinction,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Speech and debate empower young people to lead, advocate, and think critically, and these skills that will serve them for a lifetime. These accomplishments show what is possible when talent meets opportunity.”

Tournament Results

Arts High School

Duo Interpretation:

  • Jade Vargas & Suriyah Carrasquillo – 4th Place

Barringer High School

Dramatic Interpretation:

  • Britney Deer – 3rd Place

Original Oratory:

  • Britney Deer – 3rd Place – National Qualifier
  • Toumaye Siripe – 7th Place

Program of Oral Interpretation:

  • Sheekira King – 4th Place

Central High School

Duo Interpretation:

  • Winal Tineo & Isaiah Fleurant – 1st Place – National Qualifiers
  • Courtney Mack & Serenity Bradshaw – 2nd Place – National Qualifiers

Dramatic Interpretation:

  • Winal Tineo – 1st Place
  • Rhya D’Aguilar – 4th Place – National Qualifier
  • Isaiah Fleurant – Semifinalist
  • Jamal Kirton – National Qualifier

Program of Oral Interpretation:

  • Dominique Thompson – 5th Place

Science Park High School

Policy Debate (CX)

  • Anne-Blessing Odra & Moyinoluwa Olagadeyo – 2nd Place – National Qualifiers
  • Mofoluwa Olagadeyo & Risiqat Adeniji – National Qualifiers
  • Smith & Onyebuchi – 3rd Place

University High School

Dramatic Interpretation:

  • Dante Elliott – 5th Place – National Qualifier

Program of Oral Interpretation:

  • Jazzlee Usher – 2nd Place – National Qualifier
  • JosManuel De Leon – 3rd Place – National Qualifier

Humorous Interpretation:

  • Luis Franco – 5th Place

About Newark Public Schools

The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676.  The District currently enrolls over 41,000 students in 65 schools.  After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Brubaker, Communications Director
Email: pbrubaker@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Phone: 973-803-6983

Newark Public Schools Students Win Five First-Place Awards at Prestigious New York City Invitational Speech & Debate Tournament

From left, Science Park High School’s Moyinoluwa Olagadeyo, Mofoluwa Olagadeyo , Risiqat Adeniji, and Anne Blessing Odra.

From left, Barringer High School’s Sheekira King, Toumaye Siripe, Edgar Medina, and Britney Deer.

Central High School’s Jamal Kirton, left, and Champion Allwell.

Arts High School’s Kamira Hall, left, and Lordina Gakpe.

From left, University High School’s Josmanuel Deleon, Dante Elliott, Jazzlee Usher, and Belonica Maceno.

NEW YORK CITY – Newark Public Schools students won five first-place awards at the 2025 New York City Invitational Speech & Debate Tournament, one of the nation’s most competitive and respected forensics competitions.

The three-day event, hosted annually by the Bronx High School of Science, attracts hundreds of elite debaters and speakers from across the country. Newark students from Science Park High School, Central High School, Barringer High School, University High School, and Arts High School distinguished themselves among the nation’s best, earning top placements in multiple categories and team sweepstakes honors.

Newark Public Schools’ five first-place awards are:

  • Policy Debate: Mofoluwa Olagadeyo and Risiqat Adeniji – Science Park High School
  • Dramatic Interpretation: Jamal Kirton – Central High School
  • Duo Interpretation: Jamal Kirton and Champion Allwell – Central High School
  • Poetry and Prose: Jamal Kirton – Central High School
  • Original Oratory: Britney Deer – Barringer High School

“Our students’ extraordinary success at one of the country’s most competitive tournaments shows how Newark Public Schools continue to raise the bar in academic competition,” said Superintendent León. “Winning five first-place awards at a national-level tournament is a tremendous achievement, and we could not be prouder of these high school students and their coaches.”

“Once again, Newark’s students proved that our city produces some of the most talented debaters and speakers in the nation,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Their victories reflect the passion, preparation, and excellence that define Newark Public Schools.”

Science Park Sweeps The Policy Debate Tournament

Under the guidance of Coach Jonathan Alston, Science Park High School captured 1st Place in Policy Debate, with the team of Mofoluwa Olagadeyo and Risiqat Adeniji taking top honors. As they advanced through the tournament brackets, they defeated teams from New York, Maryland, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Teammates Anne Odra and Moyinoluwa Olagadeyo reached the Octofinals, while Anne-Blessing Odra (3rd), Moyinoluwa Olagadeyo (6th), Mofoluwa Olagadeyo (7th), and Risiqat Adeniji (8th) earned individual Speaker Awards, underscoring Science Park’s continued dominance in policy debate. There were 126 speakers in the Policy Debate tournament.

Central Scores A Hat Trick

Led by Coach Dennis Philbert, Central High School delivered an exceptional showing with three first-place finishes. Jamal Kirton earned 1st Place in Dramatic Interpretation and 1st Place in Poetry and Prose and teamed with Champion Allwell to win 1st Place in Duo Interpretation. Central also earned 5th Place Overall in the Sweepstakes Team Award, highlighting the school’s depth of talent.

Barringer Brings It And Achieves Excellence

With Coach Michael Sowell at the helm, Barringer High School continued its strong forensics tradition. Britney Deer and Toumaye Siripe took 1st and 2nd Place respectively in Original Oratory, while Sheekira King placed 3rd in Poetry and Prose and Edgar Medina earned 6th in Humorous Interpretation. Barringer also achieved 2nd Place Overall in the Sweepstakes Team Award, marking one of its best tournament performances to date.

University Phoenixes Rise To The Finals

With Coach Saul Grullon leading the Phoenix, University High School’s Dante Elliott earned 5th Place in Dramatic Interpretation and, with Josmanuel Deleon, took 5th Place in Duo Interpretation. Deleon also reached the semifinals in both Dramatic Interpretation and Poetry and Prose, joined by Belonica Maceno and Jazzlee Usher, who advanced to the semifinal round as well.

Arts High’s Hall Places Fourth In The Finals

Representing Arts High School and coached by David Richardson, Kamira Hall placed 4th in both Program of Oral Interpretation and Poetry and Prose, while Lordina Gakpe reached the semifinals in Poetry and Prose.

About Newark Public Schools

The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676.  The District currently enrolls over 40,000 students in 65 schools.  After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Brubaker, Communications Director
Email: pbrubaker@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Phone: 973-803-6983

Newark Students Earn High Honors at Yale Invitational Speech & Debate Tournament

Students from Barringer, Central, and University High Schools earn bids for the national Tournament of Champions

The University High School team, from left: Jovany Hinds, Belonica Maceno, Coach Saul Grullon, Josmanuel De Leon, Dante Elliott, Jade Peralta, and Luis Franco.
Britney Deer of Barringer High School
Central High School’s Champion Allwell, left, and Jamal Kirton

NEW HAVEN, CONN. – Ten Newark Public Schools students earned high honors at the Yale Debate Association’s 33rd Annual Yale Invitational High School Tournament, taking home awards in five categories.
 
The Yale Invitational, which was held at Yale University from September 19th to 21st, is one of the most competitive early-season tournaments in the nation, drawing hundreds of top high school debaters from across the country.
 
University High School’s Jade Peralta and Barringer High School’s Britney Deer made history as the first students from their respective schools to reach the finals at the Yale tournament. They, along with Central High School’s Jamal Kirton and Champion Allwell, received invitations to compete at the national Tournament of Champions at the University of Kentucky in 2026.
 
University High School also earned the distinction of having the most students advance to the semifinals, with five students placing among the top 12 in their categories.
 
“Our students continue to prove that Newark sits on the national stage in academics and competition,” said Superintendent León. “Their success at Yale is a testament to their talent, their coaches’ dedication, and the strength of our schools.”
 
“We are proud to celebrate these students for representing Newark with excellence,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Achievements like this remind us of the brilliance and determination within our district.”
 
Top Awards

Central High School

  • Jamal Kirton and Champion Allwell – 2nd place, Duo Interpretation (Coach: Dennis Philbert

Barringer High School

  • Britney Deer – 2nd place, Oratory (Coach: Michael Sowell)

University High School

  • Jade Peralta – 6th place, Dramatic Interpretation (Coach: Saul Grullon)

Semifinalists
Central High School

  • Jamal Kirton – Semifinalist, Dramatic Interpretation

University High School

  • Dante Elliott & Josmanuel De Leon – Semifinalists, Dramatic Interpretation
  • Belonica Maceno & Luis Franco – Semifinalists, Oral Interpretation
  • Jovany Hinds – Semifinalist, Humorous Interpretation

About Newark Public Schools

The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676.  The District currently enrolls over 41,000 students in 65 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened eleven new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Brubaker, Communications Director
Email: pbrubaker@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Phone: 973-803-6983

Newark Public Schools Students Make History at National Speech and Debate Tournament

Newark Public Schools Students Make History at National Speech and Debate Tournament

Central and University High School competitors earn national honors; district recognized among Top 20 schools nationwide

DES MOINES – Newark Public Schools student orators earned national recognition last week at the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) National Tournament, capping off a historic year for the district’s speech and debate programs.

For the first time in district history, Central High School seniors Cassidy Harris and Ayomide Adekoya placed in the top ranks of the Dramatic Interpretation national championship—Harris earning fifth place and Adekoya sixth in the country. Dramatic Interpretation is one of the national tournament’s main events.

“In the 100-year history of the NSDA, they were the first from our district to grace the national tournament’s stage for a main event,” said Dennis Philbert, Central High School Speech and Debate Coach. “Not only did they make history, but Central High also received a Team Sweepstakes Award, placing in the Top 20 out of more than 1,600 high schools nationwide.”

University High School’s Malakai Yepes also delivered a standout performance, placing seventh in the national Poetry championship. Poetry is one of the national tournament’s supplemental events. It was the second consecutive year Yepes finished in the national rankings.

Science Park High School’s Risiqat Adeniji and Mofoluwa Olagadeyo, who won the Policy Debate state championship in March, came in seventh place in the same category at the national tournament.

“Our students have once again shown Newark’s excellence to the nation,” said Superintendent León. “To see our scholars rise to the top in a field as demanding as competitive speech and debate at the national level is a demonstration of their brilliance, their coaches’ dedication, and the culture of excellence we are building in our schools. I am proud beyond words of Cassidy, Ayomide, Malakai, Risiqat, Mofoluwa, and every student who competed and made history for Newark.”

“This extraordinary achievement reflects the power of student voice and the strength of our district’s academic programs,” said Hasani K. Council, President of the Newark Board of Education. “Their performances on the national stage spotlight the talent and determination that exist in every Newark school. On behalf of the Board, I congratulate our students, their families, and their coaches for raising the bar and making us all proud.”

Additional top performances included the following:

Central High School – Dennis Philbert, Coach

  • Jamal Kirton – Semifinalist (14th place), Dramatic Interpretation
  • Alexander Ahenkora – ranked in the Top 30, Poetry Reading

Barringer High School – Michael Sowell, Coach

  • Britney Deer – ranked in the Top 24 in the Poetry and Prose categories

University High School – Saul Grullon, Coach

  • Michaela White – Quarterfinalist, Program of Oral Interpretation
  • Malakai Yepes – Octofinalist, Program of Oral Interpretation
  • Dante Elliott & Josmauel Deleon – Octofinalists, Duo Interpretation

Science Park High School Middle Schoolers – Jonathan Alston

  • Amoor Smith & Vitor Guimaraes – Quarterfinalists, Policy Debate
  • Amoor Smith – 6th Place, Speaker
  • Vitor Guimaraes – 7th Place, Speaker

About Newark Public Schools

The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676.  The District currently enrolls over 41,000 students in 64 schools.  After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Brubaker, Communications Director
Email: pbrubaker@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Phone: 973-803-6983

Central High School Earns Middle States Accreditation

Central High School Earns Middle States Accreditation

Newark, NJ — Central High School has earned accreditation by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS), a worldwide leader in accreditation and continuous school improvement. 

“Middle States accreditation serves as an independent validation of the good work we do, and the accreditation process focuses our attention on continuous growth and improvement,” said Principal Mitchell. “We are proud to have earned accreditation and to join the Middle States network. We look forward to continuing to work with our administrators, teachers, parents and our entire school community to provide high quality education for all students.”  

The accreditation process begins with a self-study that is conducted by the school or school system and requires input from school leaders, teachers, parents and students. Following the self-study, a team of volunteer educators from Middle States member schools conducts a peer review. 

The visiting team makes its recommendation to the Middle States Association Commissions, which votes on the accreditation. 

“The Middle States accreditation process advances school evolution,” said Christian Talbot, president of MSA-CESS. “Middle States accredited schools are part of a powerful network of innovative and skilled educators from around the globe committed to preparing students to contribute to the common good, to be purposeful citizens, and to live fulfilling lives.”

Central High School’s Vision

Central High School is a destination in the city of Newark for students seeking a challenging and enriching academic experience. With a diverse array of Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment courses, students have the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. Our specialized academy programs provide hands-on learning in high-demand fields, including our distinguished Dental Academy, where students gain practical experience in oral health care, and our Environmental Studies Academy, which prepares future leaders in sustainability and conservation. Beyond the classroom, our 12 extracurricular clubs and activities ensure that every student can explore their passions, from STEM and the arts to leadership and community service. Additionally, our Autism program focuses on real-life transitional education, equipping students with the skills they need for success beyond high school.

At Central High School, student life is vibrant and dynamic, both academically and athletically. We offer all major sporting teams, providing students with numerous opportunities to excel in athletics, teamwork, and school spirit. Our nationally ranked Speech and Debate team consistently earns top honors, fostering critical thinking, public speaking, and competitive excellence. As a community hub, Central is more than just a school—our facilities are frequently used for district, city, and state events, making us a vital part of the city. The lights are always on at Central, reflecting the energy, ambition, and dedication of our students, staff, and community. Central High School inspires greatness and opens doors to a brighter future!

Superintendent León and President Council congratulates and commends the administration, staff, parents and students at Central High School for this incredible milestone. 

About Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS)

Based in Philadelphia, the Middle States Association is the worldwide leader in accreditation and school improvement. Since 1887, Middle States has been helping school leaders establish and reach their goals, develop strategic plans, promote staff development, and advance student achievement. With more than 2,700 accredited schools and school systems in nearly 50 states, Puerto Rico,  and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and in over 110 countries, Middle States is proud of its continuing legacy and its ongoing innovations to meet the challenges of improving education in the 21st century. For more information visit www.msa-cess.org.

Newark Public Schools Students Win at NCFL Grand Nationals

Newark Public Schools Students Win at NCFL Grand Nationals

University High School’s Michaela White with her coach, Saul Grullon

University High School’s Michaela White wins Newark’s first NCFL national speech championship

CHICAGO – Newark Public Schools students made a powerful impression at the 2025 National Catholic Forensic League (NCFL) Grand National Tournament over Memorial Day weekend, including a history-making victory by University High School senior Michaela White, who earned the district’s first-ever national championship title.

White, coached by Saul Grullon, won first place in the Dramatic Performance category, marking a major milestone for the district’s growing speech and debate community. White’s first place win follows her being one of three national champions from the district in the Tournament of Champions last month.

Several other district students also achieved national recognition at the NCFL Grand National Tournament:

Central High School – Dennis Philbert, Coach

  • Cassidy Harris – 3rd place, Dramatic Interpretation
  • Jahnaiya Simpson – 11th place, Oral Interpretation
  • Jamal Kirton & Alexander Ahenkora – Quarterfinalists, Duo Interpretation
  • Rebekah Edohwokui – Quarterfinalist, Oral Interpretation
  • Diana Bryant – Octofinalist, Oral Interpretation

Arts High School – David Richardson, Coach

  • Kamira Hall – Quarterfinalist, Oral Interpretation

Barringer High School – Michael Sowell, Coach

  • Toumaye Siripe – Quarterfinalist, Declamation

University High School – Saul Grullon, Coach

  • Malakai Yepes & Dante Elliott – 7th place, Duo Interpretation
  • Mary Aribo & Solim Agbada – Octofinalists, Duo Interpretation

Superintendent León congratulated the students and their coaches.

“Michaela White’s national championship at the NCFL Grand National Tournament is a proud and historic moment for Newark Public Schools,” said Superintendent León. “Her achievement, along with the outstanding performances of all our students, reflects the talent, dedication, and excellence fostered in our speech and debate programs. We are so proud of these young scholars and the educators who guide them.”

Board of Education President Hasani K. Council also offer his congratulations.

“These remarkable results from the NCFL Grand National Tournament showcase the brilliance and competitive spirit of Newark students on a national stage. Congratulations to Michaela White for making history and to every student who represented our city with pride. I thank our coaches, families, and school communities for investing in our students’ voices, confidence, and future success.”

About Newark Public Schools

The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676. The District currently enrolls over 41,000 students in 64 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Brubaker, Communications Director
Email: pbrubaker@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Phone: 973-803-6983