Press Releases

Student Authors Honored For Telling Their Stories Of Coming To The United States

Student Authors Honored For Telling Their Stories Of Coming To The United States

The student-authors of We Were Strangers Once, Too with District and school officials, and Board of Education Members.
The student-authors of We Were Strangers Once, Too with District and school officials, and Board of Education Members.

58 students’ personal accounts published as “We Were Strangers Once, Too” anthology

NEWARK, N.J. – Superintendent León, Assistant Superintendent Maria Ortiz, and Principal Darleen Gearhart welcomed Congresswoman LaMonica McIver to Science Park High School on Friday for a special event honoring the 58 student authors of We Were Strangers Once, Too.

The book is a collection of first-person stories of coming to the United States written by students who live throughout the city. Shawn Adler, an award-winning English Language Arts and AP Psychology teacher, edited the stories.

“Look at what you have done. You have become authors,” said Adler, speaking from the podium to his students. “No matter what anyone tells you, your words and ideas can change the world. Your stories are proof of that.”

“This book is an acknowledgement, not only of you but of where you’ve been,” said Superintendent León, a Science Park High School alumnus, as he spoke to the gathering of student authors. “I am immensely proud of your hard work, commitment to excellence, and ongoing understanding about the importance of who you are.”

“These stories highlight the sobering reality for many migrants who leave their home country in pursuit of a better life here in America. But these stories also highlight something else – hope,” said Congresswoman McIver, an alumna of Central High School. “Your words have power. You have given voice to your journeys. You have created a bridge of empathy that can connect us all.”

Board of Education President Hasani K. Council and Board Member Kanileah Anderson were also impressed by the work of the young writers.

“We are incredibly proud of the students who have contributed to the collected works, We Were Strangers Once, Too,” President Council said. “Their courage in sharing their personal migration stories not only reflects their resilience but also strengthens our community by fostering understanding and empathy. These young authors remind us that storytelling is a powerful tool to build bridges and create meaningful connections. We commend their resilience, creativity, and commitment to inspiring change through their words.”

Two student authors read their stories aloud at the gathering on Friday. One wrote about his uncle, who was lost while making the journey to the United States from Peru. Another recalled the items she chose to pack – among them, a picture of her family and her favorite bedtime storybook – after her father said they needed to flee a dangerous situation at their home in Ecuador.

Science Park High School Principal Darleen Gearhart said that reading many of the students’ narratives moved her to tears, and she recognized the students for their resilience and tenacity in putting their experiences in writing.

“Your stories and who you are as people is inspiring to all of us,” Gearhart said. “It’s inspiring all of the people in this room to be better people.”

We Were Strangers Once, Too was originally published in April 2024. The collection of stories represents students from eight Newark high schools who came from 24 different countries. Each of the student authors received royalty checks from sales of the book, which is sold on Amazon at the following link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2GJMDN3

From left, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Maria Ortiz, Superintendent León, Principal Darleen Gearhart, and Teacher Shawn Adler.
From left, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Maria Ortiz, Superintendent León, Principal Darleen Gearhart, and Teacher Shawn Adler.
Congresswoman LaMonica McIver delivers her remarks.
Congresswoman LaMonica McIver delivers her remarks.
Teacher Shawn Adler, seated, fist-bumps one of his students who contributed to We Were Strangers Once, Too.
Teacher Shawn Adler, seated, fist-bumps one of his students who contributed to We Were Strangers Once, Too.
Board of Education President Hasani K. Council perusing a copy of We Were Strangers Once, Too.
Board of Education President Hasani K. Council perusing a copy of We Were Strangers Once, Too.

Two Science Park High School Students Receive Full College Scholarships

: Iyiola Ajanaku, left, and Ashley Lourenco.

Iyiola Ajanaku will attend Brown University, Ashley Lourenco will go to Amherst College

NEWARK, N.J. – District officials announced today that two Science Park High School seniors have been awarded full scholarships for college. The QuestBridge Scholarship Program, a nonprofit organization that provides higher education opportunities to high-achieving students from low-income families, has provided the scholarships.

Iyiola Ajanaku, 17, will attend Brown University in Rhode Island, and Ashley Lourenco will go to Amherst College in Massachusetts.

“It means a million doors have opened up in my life,” Iyiola said about her college acceptance and scholarship. “Being able to go to such a well-known and academically rigorous institution will strengthen me as a person and bring my life to the next level. I am so incredibly grateful. It is such a huge blessing.”

“I am very excited to have received this amazing opportunity,” said Ashley. “I can focus on my academics at a great college without having to worry about debt.”

“We are immensely proud of Iyiola and Ashley for their remarkable achievements in earning QuestBridge scholarships. Their hard work, determination, and excellence are an inspiration to all of us in the Newark Public Schools community,” said Superintendent León. “We are excited to see all that they will accomplish as they embark on this next chapter at Brown and Amherst. Congratulations to Iyiola, Ashley, their families, and the dedicated teachers, school counselors, and mentors who have supported them along the way."

“I want to congratulate Iyiola and Ashley on being awarded these prestigious QuestBridge scholarships, said Hasani K. Council, President of the Board of Education. “Their accomplishments exemplify the talent and potential of our students here in Newark. We commend their perseverance, celebrate their achievements, and look forward to seeing the incredible impact they will make in their future endeavors.”

“Iyiola and Ashley are two exemplary students who have been consistently bringing pride to the Science Park High School community,” said Darleen L. Gearhart, Principal of Science Park High School. “I am very proud of both of these outstanding students and look forward to witnessing their impact on the world.”

Iyiola Ajanaku

Ajanaku was born in Newark and lives with her family who came to the United States from Nigeria in the early 2000s. She said the International Baccalaureate program was the main reason she wanted to attend Science Park High School, as well as the school’s focus on science and the diversity of students. Ajanaku swims on the school’s swim team and she co-founded the school’s Culture Club.

“I decided to make a safe space where people can come and learn about each other while also learning about countries,” she said.

At Brown, Ajanaku intends to major in computational biology, which uses mathematical and computational approaches to address theoretical and experimental questions in biology, according to the NIH. For Ajanaku, the major will allow her to use her skills in working with data and data modeling to help answer questions related to biology, specifically health care.

“I work really well with databases and interpreting data to help solve problems,” she said.

Ashley Lourenco

Lourenco has gained significant notoriety as a national champion debater, being the first in the high school’s history to win the New York City Invitational Debate and Speech Tournament’s Lincoln-Douglas Debate event and the tournament’s award for best speaker.  

Lourenco, also a lifelong Newark resident, previously attended the Ann Street School, where her mother, Ione Dearruda, is a teacher, and her younger brother and sister are students. Her father is a construction worker.

Lourenco is interested in pursuing political science or law, considering law school as one pathway, but is also open to journalism or nonprofit work.

When she has a bit of time to relax, Lourenco enjoys watching stand-up comedy on YouTube, counting John Mulaney as one of her favorite comedians.

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 39,000 students in 63 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’s Science Park High School Named A State Finalist In Samsung’s Solve For Tomorrow Contest

From left, Biology Teacher Wahab Ashraf, Collins Esubonteng (10th grade), Rachael Montes, Sara Delgado-Rengel (10th grade), Naysa Toussaint (12th grade), Zuri McCune (12th grade), Sophia Brandao (12th grade), Hunter Chambers (12th grade), Jerome Wakefield (12th grade), Talia Caguana (12th grade), Gianel Solano-Aguilar (11th grade), Physics Teacher Devin Mejias.

School is among 300 state finalists throughout the nation

NEWARK, N.J. – A team of students from Science Park High School has been selected as one of 300 state finalists throughout the nation in Samsung’s “Solve for Tomorrow” contest. This $3 million national competition encourages students in grades 6 to 12 to creatively use science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills to solve a community challenge.

The students’ engineering and sustainability project involves extracting cellulose from paper waste and converting it into thread. The goal is to use the thread to create textiles. The participating students are:

  • Sophia Brandao, 12th grade
  • Talia Caguana, 12th grade
  • Hunter Chambers, 12 grade
  • Sara Delgado-Renegel, 10th grade
  • Collins Esubonteng, 10th grade
  • Zuri McCune, 12th grade
  • Rachel Montes, 10th grade
  • Gianel Solano-Aguilar, 11th grade
  • Naysa Toussaint, 12th grade
  • Jerome Wakefield, 12th grade

The students’ faculty advisors are Biology Teacher Wahab Ashraf and Physics Teacher Devin Mejias.

As a state finalist, Science Park High School will receive a $2,500 prize package, including Samsung products and classroom resources, to complete their activity plan submission. The school has the opportunity to advance through future phases of the contest to win additional prizes. The Science Park High School team must submit a plan to implement their proposal by January 9th. 

“We are tremendously proud of our young scientists who are developing a new more sustainable way to create textiles, which could potentially impact our entire world,” said Superintendent León. “I thank their teachers and administrators who have made our students’ participation in the ‘Solve For Tomorrow’ contest possible, and I wish our students the best of luck as they move onto the next phase of the competition.”

“We are thrilled by our students who have reached this exciting milestone in Samsung’s ‘Solve for Tomorrow’ contest,” said Hasani K. Council, president of the Newark Board of Education. “Their innovative project exemplifies the creativity, ingenuity, and determination that define Newark’s students. We look forward to supporting the team as they continue to represent our district on this national stage.”

“Our students have been working hard to develop their ideas and compete in the “Solve For Tomorrow” competition,” said Darleen Gearhart, principal of Science Park High School. “I greatly appreciate the guidance and assistance of their faculty advisors, as well as the great pride the entire team has brought to their 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 39,000 students in 63 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

District To Host 2nd Annual Brick City Showdown High School Basketball Classic

38 teams set to compete in 4-day tournament at Weequahic High School

NEWARK, N.J. – Newark Public Schools officials and their partners proudly announced the Brick City Showdown High School Basketball Classic 2024. The 4-day tournament is scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 19th at the District’s historic Weequahic High School. This highly anticipated tournament will showcase exceptional high school basketball talent from Newark and across the nation, highlighting athleticism, teamwork, and community spirit.

Supported by partners including Mayor Ras J. Baraka and the City of Newark, the Patrick O. Council Civic Association, the Greater Newark Convention and Visitors Bureau, and 6th Man Hoops, the Brick City Showdown has become a marquee event on New Jersey’s high school sports calendar.

“The opportunity to unite all-star high school basketball teams and players from across the state and nation with our exceptional Newark Public Schools student-athletes creates an unforgettable experience for everyone involved,” said Superintendent León.

This year’s event will feature 38 teams and over 450 players, including more than 70 scholarship hopefuls, competing in a dynamic and inclusive environment. The District will be represented by eight teams; five boys teams – American History High School, Arts High School, Central High School, East Side High School, and Weequahic High School, and three girls teams – Arts High School, Science Park High School, and University High School.  

Thousands of fans, families, coaches, media, and scouts are expected to attend, offering a unique chance to witness some of the nation’s finest young basketball talent right here in Newark.

Proceeds from the tournament will directly support scholarships for high school basketball players, helping them achieve their educational and athletic aspirations. Attendees and sponsors play a vital role in fostering the growth and success of these remarkable student-athletes.

Join us for an action-packed weekend that celebrates basketball excellence and its ability to unite and inspire communities. The Brick City Showdown is more than just a tournament—it’s a platform for showcasing talent, fostering sportsmanship, and making a lasting impact on young athletes’ lives.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets will only be sold at the door.

For more information, visit https://www.newarkhappening.com/event/brick-city-showdown-basketball-classic/31993/

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 39,000 students in 63 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 Greater Newark Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Greater Newark Convention & Visitors Bureau (GNCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for Newark, New Jersey. Established in 2008, GNCVB is a private nonprofit corporation funded primarily through a Tourism Improvement District (TID). Its mission is to promote Newark as a premier travel destination and drive economic growth through tourism. In 2013, GNCVB became the first Destination Marketing Organization in New Jersey to establish a TID. During its tenure, hotel sales have soared, new hotels have opened, and Newark’s visitation has grown to over 1,000,000 overnight guests annually.

Science High Busan Visits Science Park High School: A Cultural and Scientific Exchange

Science High Busan Visits Science Park High School: A Cultural and Scientific Exchange

Science Park High School, the #1 school in Newark, is thrilled to announce a historic visit from the students and faculty of Science High School Busan, a prestigious magnet high school in South Korea. This cultural and educational exchange took place on Friday, November 1, 2024 and fostered global collaboration in the fields of science and technology.

During their visit, the delegation from Science High Busan took part in a variety of activities including interactive science workshops, collaborative research projects, and cultural exchange sessions with Science Park National Honor Society ambassadors designed to promote understanding and appreciation of each other's educational systems, cultures, and scientific pursuits.

Principal Gearhart expressed her excitement about this unique opportunity for the students of Science Park High School, stating, "Hosting Science High School Busan has been an incredible experience for our students. It not only allowed them to engage directly with peers from a different culture but also strengthens their passion for science and innovation. Our students are inspired to broaden their horizons and explore new ideas through this exceptional collaboration."

The partnership between the two schools underscores the importance of global education and the role of students in shaping a brighter future. In addition to academic growth, the exchange provides both schools with the opportunity to share best practices in teaching and learning, enriching the educational experiences of students and educators alike.

About Science Park High School:
Science Park High School is the leading high school in Newark, New Jersey, dedicated to providing a rigorous curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Our mission is to foster academic excellence, promote innovative thinking, and prepare students for the challenges of an increasingly complex world.

About Science High Busan:
Science High School Busan is a leading magnet high school in South Korea, renowned or its emphasis on science education and research. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum aimed at preparing students for careers in science and technology, with an emphasis on hands-on learning and international collaboration.

Science Park’s Ashley Lourenco Wins National Debate Tournament

Senior is the first in school’s history to take the tournament’s top honor and wins tournament’s best speaker award

Champion Debater Ashley Lourenco and Debate Teacher Jonathan Alston

NEWARK, N.J. – When Ashley Lourenco walked into Science Park High School’s debate class on Monday, the students applauded. Word had already gotten out about what she had accomplished over the weekend.

Lourenco, a senior, did what no Science Park High School student had ever done: win the New York City Invitational Debate and Speech Tournament. The three-day competition held annually at the Bronx High School of Science is one of the nation’s most demanding speech and debate contests, and it attracts skilled debaters from all over the country.

“For the first time ever, we’ve taken first place at this particular tournament,” said a very proud Jonathan Alston, the school’s debate coach and a former debate team member.

“I’m excited about the win. I’ve been waiting a long time for it to happen,” Lourenco said.

Indeed, Lourenco said she has invested five years in learning and training and more than 50 hours of research, supported by students and alumni coaches. She has competed in other tournaments previously, which contributed to her readiness for this win.

Last weekend’s tournament began with six preliminary debates, two on Friday and four on Saturday. Participants needed a strong win-loss record to qualify for the elimination bracket.

In each round, the debated question was the same: Should the federal government require workers to be paid a living wage? Lourenco and her teammates argued for the negative side.

Based on her performance in the preliminary debates, Lourenco also won the tournament’s Best Speaker award as the team advanced to the elimination rounds. Lourenco bested opponents from schools from New Orleans, Southlake, TX; and Durham, NC, before facing a debater from Strake Jesuit College Preparatory School in Houston.

“It really was because of the cross-examination,” said Alston, referring to when opposing debaters are in direct dialogue with each other, crediting Lourenco’s composure during the high-stakes face-off.

When the competition gets heated, it’s not uncommon for emotions to run high among debaters, Lourenco said. Many of them have come to know each other through years of debating each other.

“Having those moments that can be very contentious is fine,” Lourenco said. “I debate my friends all the time. But if somebody says something that’s ridiculous, I’m not going to be nice about it.”

Lourenco, a lifelong Newark resident, has attended Science Park since the seventh grade. She previously attended the Ann Street School, where her mother, Ione Dearuda, is a teacher, and her younger brother and sister are students. Her father is a construction worker.

Lourenco is interested in pursuing political science or law, considering law school as one pathway, but is also open to journalism or nonprofit work. Colleges and universities she is considering include Yale University, Cornell University, UMASS - Amherst, and Brown University. When she has a bit of time to relax, Lourenco enjoys watching stand-up comedy on YouTube, counting John Mulaney as one of her favorite comedians.

With this win Lourenco has been awarded her first bid toward participating in the National High School Tournament of Champions, a prestigious event that requires two bids for qualification.

Lourenco’s accomplishments at Bronx Science earned her praise from one of the most notable former Science Park debate team members, Superintendent León.

“As a proud alum of the same debate team, I am thrilled to congratulate Ashley Lourenco on her outstanding achievements. Her dedication, skill, and passion for debate are truly commendable, and securing her first bid toward the National High School Tournament of Champions is a monumental accomplishment,” said Superintendent León. “I know firsthand the hard work and perseverance it takes to excel at this level, and Ashley has shown incredible tenacity and talent throughout her journey. We are all incredibly proud of her and excited to see what she will achieve next. I want to thank Principal Gearhart and Mr. Alston for their dedication to keeping the strong legacy of the Science Park Debate program going strong.”

“I am immensely proud of Ashley Lourenco for accomplishing a rare first in the illustrious Science Park debate program, winning first place in the New York City Invitational Debate and Speech Tournament,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Her achievement reflects not only her incredible talent and hard work but also the strength and dedication of our students here in Newark. On behalf of the Board of Education, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to her and look forward to witnessing even more milestones in her bright future.”

Alston told Lourenco that, when it comes to her debating future performance after last weekend’s win, her best is yet to come.

“You’re going to start debating at a different level,” Alston said. “Based on the way you’ve been debating and based on your history; you’re going to be one of the best debaters in the history of our program.”