From Our Principal

Welcome to New Media High School!

It is an incredible honor to serve as the Principal of New Media High School. As a proud Newark native and product of Newark Public Schools, this opportunity is deeply personal. The city that shaped me is now entrusting me with the privilege of helping shape the next generation of storytellers, creators, and innovators.

Throughout the past decade, I have had the privilege of serving Newark students and families as a teacher, instructional leader, and vice principal. My journey began as a dance educator, where I discovered the transformative power of creativity, collaboration, and authentic learning experiences. Those experiences continue to shape my leadership and my belief that every student deserves opportunities to create, lead, and discover their unique voice.

I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance and a Master of Education in Dance Education from Rutgers University, along with a Preschool through Grade 3 endorsement. While at Rutgers, I also completed extensive undergraduate coursework in theater and earned a minor in English Literature, experiences that deepened my appreciation for storytelling, performance, and the arts. I later earned a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University. Together, these experiences have shaped my belief that students learn best when they are encouraged to think creatively, collaborate with others, and engage in authentic, meaningful work.

New Media High School represents a bold vision for the future of education. Here, students will do more than study media. They will write, produce, film, edit, design, collaborate, and create. Through meaningful partnerships with industry professionals and postsecondary institutions, our students will graduate with the skills, experiences, and confidence to succeed in college, careers, and the rapidly evolving world of digital media and entertainment.

As we open our doors for the very first time, we have a unique opportunity to build something extraordinary together. Every student, family, and staff member will play an important role in establishing the traditions, culture, and legacy of New Media High School. I am committed to fostering a school community where creativity is celebrated, innovation is encouraged, diversity is valued, and every student is empowered to reach their fullest potential.

I look forward to partnering with our students, families, staff, and community as we build a school where every voice matters, every story is valued, and every student has the opportunity to shine.

Be a STAR. Tell your story. Change the world.

Steven Thomas Oliver
Principal