Newark Public Schools Student Named Winner of Prestigious NCWIT Award

NEWARK, N.J. – Sinclair Bangurah, a senior at Science Park High School, has been named a National Recipient of a 2026 National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Aspirations in Computing (AiC) High School Award, one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for high school students in technology and computer science.

Selected from thousands of applicants across the country, Bangurah is one of just 20 winners in New Jersey and 300 winners throughout the nation recognized for their demonstrated excellence, leadership, and aspirations in computing and technology.

The NCWIT presents the AiC High School Award annually to identify and celebrate young women who are poised to become the next generation of innovators in STEM fields.

“Sinclair’s achievement is a powerful example of the talent and determination our students have in the Newark Public Schools,” said Superintendent León. “Sinclair’s recognition as a national award winner reflects not only her exceptional ability, but also the strength of Newark Public Schools’ commitment to preparing our young ladies to lead in the industries that will shape our future. We are immensely proud of her and excited to see all that she will accomplish.”

“This honor places Sinclair among the very best students in the nation, and it is a testament to her hard work and passion for innovation,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “On behalf of the Board of Education, we are enormously proud of Sinclair for her work that is helping to break barriers and redefine what is possible in technology and beyond.”

Bangurah will be recognized at a National Award Ceremony hosted by Bank of America later this year, where she will join fellow honorees from across the country in celebration of their achievements.

“Sinclair represents the very best of Science Park High School,” said Principal Darleen L. Gearhart. “She is an exceptional student whose curiosity, discipline, and passion for learning have distinguished her among her peers nationwide. We are tremendously proud of her and know she will continue to achieve great things.”

The NCWIT AiC High School Award is part of a national effort to increase the meaningful participation of women in computing and to recognize students who are shaping the future of technology.