NEWARK, N.J. – A year after the historic visit of HRH Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh, hundreds of high school students from throughout the Newark Public Schools were awarded medals that bear the Duke’s title.

The prestigious Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award was conferred upon 214 students from eight district high schools at a special ceremony at Central High School. The Award recognizes the recipients’ demonstrated commitment to personal development, community service, and physical fitness.

“As we prepare our students for success in a rapidly changing world, experiences like The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award are invaluable,” said Superintendent León. “These students are achieving at a high level, and developing the discipline, resilience, and sense of purpose that will guide them throughout their lives. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments.”

“Through The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, our students demonstrated discipline, resilience, and a commitment to something greater than themselves,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “These are the qualities that will carry them forward in college,  in their careers, and as leaders in their communities.”

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award was founded by HRH Prince Phillip, Queen Elizabeth II’s husband, who held the title of The Duke of Edinburgh until his death in 2021. In March 2024, the district and The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award USA partnered to formally launch the program. The Award emphasizes competencies that are essential for long-term success, including goal setting, collaboration, and the ability to overcome challenges.

Students logged thousands of hours in service and self-development, building habits that extended well beyond the classroom. Through consistent effort – whether mastering a new skill, contributing to community organizations, or navigating the challenges of an expedition – students demonstrated initiative, perseverance, and ownership of their growth. Participants committed to developing a skill, improving physical fitness, volunteering in their communities, and completing an expedition over a period of 6, 12, or 18 months.

“We were proud to partner with Newark Public Schools in expanding access to The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award,” said Suzanne Currie, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award USA. “These students exemplified what is possible when young people are given the opportunity and support to challenge themselves and grow. Their achievements are a testament to their dedication and to the strength of this partnership.”

“Through this program, our students learned what it means to commit to something bigger than themselves and to see it through,” said Dr. Maria Ortiz, Assistant Superintendent overseeing the district’s high schools, who fostered the partnership with the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award USA. “They built confidence, character, and a strong sense of responsibility that will serve them well in whatever path they choose.”

The students who participated in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award USA ceremony attend American History High School, Arts High School, Bard High School Early College, Central High School, East Side High School, the Newark School of Architecture and Interior Design, the Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology, the Newark School of Global Studies, Newark Vocational High School, Science Park High School, Technology High School, and University High School.

Students who completed the Award also joined a global network of participants spanning more than 120 countries and territories, connecting their individual achievements to a broader international community.