Newark Public Schools Graduates Receive Contracts to Return as Teachers with Their Diplomas
34 students offered conditional employment with starting salaries of $74,000
NEWARK, N.J. – Among the thousands of high school graduates who participated in commencement exercises today, 34 walked away with more than just their diplomas. They also received job offers to become future teachers in Newark Public Schools.
Thirty-two of these graduates completed the Red Hawks Rising Teacher Academy, a dual enrollment program developed in partnership with Montclair State University and the American Federation of Teachers to prepare students for careers in education. Each received a signed conditional employment agreement from the district, which will take effect upon completion of a bachelor’s degree and all requirements for New Jersey state teacher certification. Once hired, they will begin their careers in Newark Public Schools with a starting salary of $74,000.
Most of the students participated in the program through East Side High School and University High School.
In addition to the Red Hawks Rising graduates, two other students received specialized offers:
Miguel Rodriguez Bermudez, a graduate of Arts High School, was offered a contract to return to the district as a music teacher.
Alliana Abreu, a graduate of Barringer High School, received an offer to become an athletic trainer for the district.
“These contracts represent our investment in homegrown talent and a long-term strategy to build a pipeline of teachers who reflect and understand our students,” said Superintendent León. “We’re not just celebrating graduates today. We’re welcoming future colleagues.”
“This is what it looks like when we invest in our young people, grow our own talent, and build a future that starts at home,” said Hasani K. Council, President of the Newark Board of Education. “These graduates are role models and leaders who will give back to the same schools and neighborhoods that shaped them.”
“We are deeply committed to recruiting and retaining excellent educators, and that includes nurturing talent from within our schools,” said Dr. Yolanda Mendez, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resource Services. “Programs like the Red Hawks Rising Teaching Academy are essential to creating a sustainable workforce that understands the culture, challenges, and strengths of Newark. We are proud to offer these contracts to these outstanding young people as a pathway back to our classrooms.”
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
