Newark Public Schools Board Authorizes First Step Toward A New Elementary School in the Ironbound

NEWARK, N.J. – The Board of Education has authorized Newark Public Schools to begin seeking state approvals for a 30-year lease at 56 Freeman Street, marking a significant step toward a new elementary school, Riverfront Elementary School.

The approvals are required in order for the district to begin negotiations with the builder and property owner for the school’s construction. 

“This action represents an important step forward in our long-term commitment to ensuring that every child in Newark has access to a high-quality, modern learning environment,” said Superintendent León. “As someone who grew up in the Ironbound, I understand the importance of strong neighborhood schools, and the Riverfront Elementary School responds to the needs of this growing community and reflects the promise of what our students deserve.”

“The Board’s authorization reflects both responsible governance and a clear vision for the future of Newark’s students and families,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “While this is just the beginning of the approval process, it signals our commitment to thoughtful planning, transparency, and investment in Newark communities experiencing growth. Riverfront Elementary School has the potential to become a vital educational and community hub in the Ironbound, and we will continue to ensure that every step forward is guided by what is in the best interest of our students.”

The Vision For A New School

The board’s decision followed a presentation by School Business Administrator Valerie Wilson in which she said the new school will accommodate about 667 students. The 151,295 square-foot-school will be at the intersection of Freeman Street, Fleming Avenue, and Christie Street. It is scheduled to open in the fall of 2028.

Riverfront Elementary School is designed to support both academic excellence and community use, and will include:

• four instructional floors above a structured parking level with 60 parking spaces to support staff and operational needs
• classrooms for music, art, STEM, and computer lab classes
• spaces for student services, administrative offices, shared learning, and recreation
• a full gymnasium with locker rooms and support areas
• a 10,300 square-foot protected rooftop recreation and learning space
• outdoor playgrounds at grade level
• a design that fits the neighborhood scale while providing a modern learning environment
• a multipurpose room and kitchen for assemblies, dining, school and community events

The proposed lease will include a provision giving the Board an option to purchase the property for nominal consideration at the end of the 30-year term.

When built, Riverfront Elementary School will help meet the significant need for additional public school space in Newark’s East Ward.  This is in alignment with the Newark Public Schools’ ten-year strategic plan, The Next Decade: 2020–2030, which prioritizes planning for enrollment projections, academic programs, and community needs.

Where We Are Now

At the public hearing on March 25, the Board of Education and public were informed of the plan for a new, modern elementary school, as well as the tentative terms of the proposed lease and the estimated cost. Based on this information the Board approved the proposed lease in concept and authorized applications to be submitted for the required state approvals.  Upon receipt of those approvals, the Board will review the lease and all if its proposed terms, including costs, and consider whether to give final approval.

The Next Steps

Requests for review and approval will be submitted to the New Jersey Commissioner of Education, the Local Finance Board in the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, and the Office of the State Comptroller.