Newark, NJ - On October 30, 2023 the Newark Public Schools proudly unveiled a state-of-the-art Student Media Center at Peshine Avenue School.
This innovative hub, designed with precision, offers students a modern and comfortable space, with resources to prepare them for higher education, careers, and active participation in our global society while still in elementary school. Within the new media center, students can study independently, hone their research skills, collaborate on group projects, and develop essential social skills. Ultimately, this dynamic 21st century space, aims to ignite a passion for reading across all content areas.
Peshine Avenue School has transformed their media center into a thriving educational resource. This has endowed the media center with an array of diverse library materials and cutting-edge technology, poised to strengthen student learning and their curiosity across a wide variety of subjects. This provides students with an environment of engagement and collaboration that prioritizes learning, providing students with access to an array of genres and culturally relevant materials, thus empowering them to take ownership of their educational journey.
In 2020, Superintendent Roger León received the Administrator of the Year award from the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, showcasing his unwavering commitment to enhancing school media centers with high-quality books and learning resources. Under Superintendent León’s leadership, numerous school media centers have been either created or upgraded, ensuring that these extended learning environments are conducive to supporting and nurturing the educational growth of our students.
“Here in Newark Public Schools, we are opening libraries and providing access to more books so that children may discover more of themselves through history and fiction, and lead us toward a brighter future,” said Superintendent Leὀn.
“I am who I am today because of my school librarian. I am excited for the students to enjoy this exquisite, well thought-out, cutting edge facility,” said Christian Zabriskie, Director of Newark Public Library.
Board President Council encouraged students, “Look around. This is amazing! We are extremely proud to see media centers being established in our schools and we want this to be a place where you, our students, embrace reading and become inspired.”
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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 39,000 students in 63 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened 9 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:
Nancy J. Deering, Acting Communications Director
ndeering@nullnps.k12.nj.us