Press Releases

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

All IB Seniors at Science Park High School Earn International Baccalaureate Diplomas

All IB Seniors at Science Park High School Earn International Baccalaureate Diplomas

NEWARK, N.J. – Every 2025 graduate of Science Park High School enrolled in the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program has successfully completed the rigorous requirements to earn the IB Diploma, Newark Public Schools officials announced today.

“These students have met one of the most rigorous academic standards in the world,” said Superintendent León. “Earning an IB Diploma is a mark of exceptional discipline, intellect, and global awareness. We are incredibly proud.”

The IB Diploma recipients from Science Park High School’s Class of 2025 are:

  • Iyiola Ajanaku, who will attend Brown University
  • Beau Ambroise, who will attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  • Lucas Almeida, who will attend Stevens Institute of Technology
  • Jasmine Doreus, who will attend Tuskegee University
  • Adrian Lopez-Silvero, who will attend Rochester Institute of Technology
  • Ashley Lourenco, who will attend Amherst College
  • Farisa Manifold, who will attend New Jersey Institute of Technology
  • Chukwubundom Nwosu, who will attend Wake Forest University
  • Karen Otavalo, who will attend Harvard University
  • Mark Perez, who will attend Wilkes Honors College of Florida Atlantic University
  • Ashley Rivera, who will attend Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • Brianna Rivera, who will attend Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • Paul Romero, who will attend Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • Giovanna Yenke, who will attend Rutgers University – New Brunswick

“These students not only rose to the academic challenge, they embraced the global mindset and community service that the IB program fosters,” said Darleen Gearhart, Principal of Science Park High School. “Their achievement is a testament to their hard work and the dedication of our IB teachers and counselors.”

To earn an IB Diploma, students must complete six exams across different subject areas, an extended research-based essay, the Theory of Knowledge course, and a Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) project. Exams and essays are evaluated by the International Baccalaureate Organization. Students need at least 24 out of a possible 45 points to earn the diploma.

“This accomplishment by our IB graduates at Science Park High School reflects the strength and potential of Newark’s students when given access to rigorous and inspiring opportunities,” Hasani K. Council, President of the Newark Board of Education. “We celebrate their success and the educators who guided them.”

Science Park High School is one of 16 high schools in the state that offer the program. The other schools are Bergen County Academies in Hackensack, Biotechnology High School in Freehold, Fort Lee High School, Freehold Township High School, Howell High School in Farmingdale, International High School in Paterson, Linden High School, Manasquan High School, Morris Knolls High School in Rockaway, Newark Academy in Livingston, Red Bank Regional High School in Little Silver, Salem High School, Shore Regional High School in West Long Branch, West Morris Central High School in Chester, and West Morris Mendham High School in Mendham.

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

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

Science Park High School’s Mario Banks Named District Teacher of the Year

Science Park High School’s Mario Banks Named District Teacher of the Year

Detroit native has become a driving force in Newark’s music education scene

NEWARK, N.J. – Mario Banks, a Detroit native who chose the Brick City as the place where he would make a difference as an educator, has been honored as Newark Public Schools’ 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year, the district’s highest recognition for instructional excellence.

Banks, who first came to Newark in 2011, is the band director at Science Park High School, where he leads the legendary Legion of Boom marching band and other celebrated music programs.

Superintendent León made the announcement on Thursday at the annual breakfast held for all of the 64 teachers who were named Teacher of the Year by their schools. In what has become a district tradition, Superintendent León paid a surprise visit to the District Teacher of the Year the day before the annual breakfast. Banks’ family and the district and school’s administration were also a part of the occasion.

The recognition humbled Banks.

“From the absolute bottom of my heart, I really, really appreciate this honor,” said Banks. “This is more than I could ever imagine. I’m thankful.”

Banks’ leadership and passion have elevated Science Park High School’s music program to new heights.

In April, he led the Legion of Boom Marching Band to victory in the Newark Public Schools Battle of the Bands for a second year in a row. That same month, he conducted the band during a special performance for His Royal Highness Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh. Banks also directs the Science Park High School Concert Band, Modern Band, and Jazz Ensemble, which recently performed at the prestigious Jazz House Kids Spring Showcase.

Banks is also the founder of the New Jersey Mass Band, in which he collaborates with directors across the city and country to showcase the high-step/traditional marching band style.

“This district has so much talent, and we’re just at the beginning of just opening up all that talent and seeing what the district has to offer – not just in Newark and New Jersey but around the country,” Banks said. “It’s important that everybody knows what Newark is doing.”

Principal Darleen Gearhart warmly thanked Banks for his exemplary work.

“You are the heart and soul of Science Park,” said Gearhart. “It shows in everything you do.”

Board of Education President Hasani K. Council recognized Banks as a fellow brother of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

“I wouldn’t expect anything less,” Council said to Banks. “We are proud of the work that you are doing here at Science Park High School. You are changing the lives of our students.”

At this morning’s breakfast, Banks – at Superintendent León’s request – announced that he and all the teachers named their school’s Teacher of the Year would receive $1,000 for classroom supplies.

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. Follow Newark Public Schools on Instagram at @newarkpublicschools and LinkedIn at @Newark Public Schools

Newark Public Schools Holds Its 37th Annual Math Olympics

Newark Public Schools Holds Its 37th Annual Math Olympics

A Record 760 Students Compete in the Time-Honored Academic Showcase

NEWARK, N.J. – Countless neurons were firing as Newark Public Schools held its 37th annual Math Olympics, which drew a record 760 students from throughout the district – a 26 percent increase over the 605 district students who participated last year.

“We want you to think, collaborate, and represent your school with pride,” said Amanda Grossi, the district’s Director of Mathematics, during the opening ceremony. “You are here because your school believes in you, and we believe in you. Today, we celebrate math, community, and excellence.”

Fifty-seven schools participated, fielding teams across six competitive categories aligned with district course offerings: Middle School Mathematics, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus. The surge in participation is due in part to the district’s expanded offering of Algebra 1 to eighth-grade students.

“This year’s Math Olympics demonstrates what’s possible when students are challenged and inspired,” said Superintendent Leon, a former math teacher and student of the Newark Public Schools. “With a record 760 participants, we are seeing firsthand the impact of our districtwide commitment to rigorous math instruction and early access to high-level coursework. I am proud of every student who competed and grateful to our teachers for cultivating a culture where academic excellence is celebrated.”

“Newark’s 37th Annual Math Olympics is more than a competition. It’s a showcase of the brilliance, determination, and teamwork that exists in every corner of our school district,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “The Board of Education applauds our students, families, and staff for making this the largest and most successful Math Olympics yet. Events like this prove that Newark students can and do rise to the challenge.”

This year’s winners of the Newark Public Schools 37th Math Olympics are:

Middle School Mathematics
First Place Second Place Third Place
Science Park High School Oliver Street School Grover Cleveland School
Algebra 1
First Place Second Place Third Place
Science Park High School First Avenue School Lafayette Street School
Geometry
First Place Second Place Third Place
Technology High School Arts High School Bard High School Early College
Algebra 2
First Place Second Place Third Place
Science Park High School Technology High School East Side High School
Pre-Calculus
First Place Second Place Third Place
Newark School of Data Science and Information Technology Science Park High School Technology High School
Calculus
First Place Second Place Third Place
Science Park High School East Side High School Technology High School

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

Science Park High School Student Karol Quinde Awarded Two Prestigious National Scholarships

Science Park High School Student Karol Quinde Awarded Two Prestigious National Scholarships

Karol Quinde will attend Fordham University and hopes to become an immigration attorney

NEWARK, N.J. – Science Park High School senior Karol Quinde has been awarded two prestigious national scholarships for college.

Karol, who will attend Fordham University this fall, has been awarded a $25,000 Horatio Alger Scholarship and a Hagan Scholarship, which provides up to $7,500 each semester for up to eight consecutive semesters. Karol is one of 106 students in the nation to be awarded the Horatio Alger Scholarship and one of 1,085 to receive the Hagan Scholarship.

The Hagan Scholarship is a nationwide, need-based merit award designed to help high-achieving students graduate college debt-free. In addition to financial support, the scholarship offers access to life-skills workshops, a Schwab Brokerage Account, and a study abroad experience, which are all designed to give students practical knowledge not typically covered in the classroom.

“We are incredibly proud of Karol for earning these nationally competitive scholarships,” said Superintendent León. “Her hard work, resilience, and the strength of the education she received at Science Park High School has led her to great academic success. We wish her all the best as she continues her journey to realizing her aspirations.”

“Karol is a shining example of how talent and opportunity come together to transform the lives of our students,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council.

“Karol Quinde is an exceptional student whose determination, intellect, and character have made a lasting impact on our school community,” said Principal Darleen Gearhart. “We are thrilled that she has been recognized with the Horatio Alger Scholarship and Hagan Scholarship, and we know she will continue to excel and inspire others as she begins this exciting new chapter in college.”

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

About the Horatio Alger National Scholarship
The Horatio Alger National Scholarship is awarded to 106 eligible students in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. National Scholars receive an all-expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C., during the spring of their senior year to participate in the National Scholars Conference.

About the Hagan Scholarship
Since its inception, the Hagan Scholarship has supported students attending 648 colleges and universities across 49 states and the District of Columbia. The scholarship application for the Class of 2026 will open on September 1, 2025. Additional information and an updated brochure are available on the Hagan Scholarship Foundation website.