Newark Public Schools Marks Five Years of Historic Gains

NEWARK, N.J. – Superintendent León presented a Five Years in Review report highlighting unprecedented student achievement, enrollment growth, financial stability, and national recognition since local control was restored to the district in 2020.

“These highlights are evidence of the road traveled with policy adoptions and/or practices changed for the children of the city of Newark,” said Superintendent León. “Our students are achieving at the highest levels, our schools are stronger than ever, and our city is recognized nationally as a model for growth and success. None of this could happen without our dedicated staff, engaged families, and everyone’s belief that Newark’s children deserve the very best when it comes to their education.”

“The story of Newark Public Schools over the past five years is one of resilience, innovation, and progress,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Our students are excelling, our schools are thriving, and our district is stronger financially and academically than at any point in recent history. We will continue to build on this momentum for the next generation of Newark scholars.”

Among the most significant milestones:

Academic Gains. Students across all tested grades have shown steady improvement in both English Language Arts and Mathematics. Newark has also more than doubled the number of students earning college credit while in high school, with 894 graduates receiving associate’s degrees and 869 seniors awarded the New Jersey State Seal of Biliteracy.

Historic Graduation and Attendance Rates. The district’s 90% high school graduation rate is the highest in decades, while chronic absenteeism has dropped to 10.4%, well below the state average for three consecutive years.

College and Career Readiness. Newark seniors have earned more than $632 million in college scholarships, saving families $63.8 million in tuition through dual enrollment courses.

Enrollment Growth and Access. Newark has experienced the highest student enrollment growth of any of the 78 largest U.S. urban districts, opening 11 new schools and expanding hundreds of seats in both pre-K and middle grades.

Recognition and Accountability. The district was declared “High Performing” by the New Jersey Department of Education in both 2020 and 2025. The district also secured Middle States Accreditation for all six comprehensive high schools and successfully exited 29 schools from federal improvement status. Meanwhile in 2023, Technology High School was named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.

Financial Stewardship. With over $400 million invested in capital projects, the district earned accolades including The Bond Buyer’s Deal of the Year ESG/Green Award, a strong A- bond rating from S&P Global Ratings, and the Association of School Business Officials’ Certificate of Excellence for five consecutive years.

Partnership and Labor Success. Newark Public Schools successfully negotiated 18 union contracts across all nine unions, reinforcing collaborative progress districtwide.