District Releases Video Promoting Student Voter Registration
Students who will be 16 or older on April 15 can register through March 25
NEWARK, N.J. – As the Newark Board of Education approaches its first election in which the voting age is 16, Newark Public Schools officials today released a video promoting student voter registration.
“This is the first time Newark students can have a voice in the decisions that affect us the most,” says Zuri McCune, the student representative to the Board of Education in the 40-second spot. “Don’t miss this chance. Let your voice be heard.”
The video, which was written and produced by the District’s Communications Department, has been uploaded to the District’s website and Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts. More information about student voter registration is available at the following link:
https://www.nps.k12.nj.us/events/vote-16-registration-deadline/
“I encourage everyone in Newark Public Schools to watch and share this video to help make sure that eligible students register by March 25th,” said Superintendent León. “Never before have high school students in New Jersey had the chance to participate in their local democracy like what’s happening in Newark this year.. It is my hope that all eligible students will register and cast their ballots in the upcoming school board election as a start to a lifelong commitment to voting.”
“This is a historic moment for Newark’s students,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “I strongly encourage every eligible student to take advantage of this opportunity, register by March 25th, and show up to vote. Our young people have powerful voices, and this election is their chance to make them count.”
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 40,000 students in 64 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten 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.
Black History Month 2024
Black History Month 2024
February 20, 2024
Newark High School Football Player Turning Heads as Star Kicker: ‘Student of the Game’
[NEWARK, NJ] From humble roots to the best high school kicker in the state, the legend of Ibrahim Cisse is skyrocketing.
Born in the Ivory Coast, he grew up playing football - as in soccer. When he moved to the U.S. with his family at the age of seven, he was so impressed with American football that he decided to teach himself how to play.
He started playing as a freshman at Weequahic High School, where he's now turning heads as the school's star kicker.
"I didn't know what football was," Cisse tells Eyewitness News. "I'm still learning, still a student of the game."
His emergency began after a coach saw him kick a ball and asked him to try out for the team.
"He put the ball on the ground and said, 'Kick it through the uprights,'" the high school athlete recalled. "I had Vans on, but I just hit it. It was easy for me."
Ibrahim's talent grew with the support of coaches who sent him to kicking camps in the summer, where he learned strategy and improved his already special talent.
"This past season, I mean he just blew up," said Weequahic High Football Coach Brian Logan. "He was kicking the ball like when you kick off into the end zone for touchbacks, and they can't run it out."
Cisse's leg accounted for 140 points the past two seasons.
"We get that impact on the team that some people can't," said Justin Murphy, who plays the long snapper position.
Cisse, Murphy, and Elijah Blakley, who plays holder, are star students at the Eagle Academy For Young Men of Newark but play for Weequahic.
This kicking trio believe their hard work pays off.
"We physically put the work in and make ourselves available and prepare ourselves the best we can so when opportunity comes, we're ready," said Coach Logan.
Ibrahim's family is gushing over his success, and the junior is preparing for next season.
He hopes to see his dream of being a college football kicks come true.
Newark High School Football Player Turning Heads as Star Kicker: ‘Student of the Game’
Newark High School Football Player Turning Heads as Star Kicker: ‘Student of the Game’
February 9, 2024
[NEWARK, NJ] From humble roots to the best high school kicker in the state, the legend of Ibrahim Cisse is skyrocketing.
Born in the Ivory Coast, he grew up playing football - as in soccer. When he moved to the U.S. with his family at the age of seven, he was so impressed with American football that he decided to teach himself how to play.
He started playing as a freshman at Weequahic High School, where he's now turning heads as the school's star kicker.
"I didn't know what football was," Cisse tells Eyewitness News. "I'm still learning, still a student of the game."
His emergency began after a coach saw him kick a ball and asked him to try out for the team.
"He put the ball on the ground and said, 'Kick it through the uprights,'" the high school athlete recalled. "I had Vans on, but I just hit it. It was easy for me."
Ibrahim's talent grew with the support of coaches who sent him to kicking camps in the summer, where he learned strategy and improved his already special talent.
"This past season, I mean he just blew up," said Weequahic High Football Coach Brian Logan. "He was kicking the ball like when you kick off into the end zone for touchbacks, and they can't run it out."
Cisse's leg accounted for 140 points the past two seasons.
"We get that impact on the team that some people can't," said Justin Murphy, who plays the long snapper position.
Cisse, Murphy, and Elijah Blakley, who plays holder, are star students at the Eagle Academy For Young Men of Newark but play for Weequahic.
This kicking trio believe their hard work pays off.
"We physically put the work in and make ourselves available and prepare ourselves the best we can so when opportunity comes, we're ready," said Coach Logan.
Ibrahim's family is gushing over his success, and the junior is preparing for next season.
He hopes to see his dream of being a college football kicks come true.
Newark Public Schools Unveils Weequahic High School’s Untermann Stadium and Field Renovations
Newark Public Schools Unveils Weequahic High School’s Untermann Stadium and Field Renovations
December 6, 2023
[Newark, NJ, December 5, 2023] Superintendent Leὀn, along with Board President Council, proudly announced the opening of new renovations at Weequahic High School’s Untermann Field. The field is a state-of-the-art facility that will provide a top-notch playing surface for the school's athletic teams. The renovation was welcomed with live performances from the Weequahic High School band, cheerleaders and dance team.
The new field features a synthetic turf playing surface, which will allow for year-round use and require less maintenance than a natural grass field. The field also includes an upgraded press box and scoreboard, all of which will enhance the game-day experience for fans.
Superintendent Leὀn expressed enthusiasm, stating, "We are delighted to provide our student-athletes and fans with a facility of the highest caliber. This new field underscores our dedication to delivering optimal educational and co-curricular opportunities for our students."
This state-of-the-art facility was renovated by the collective efforts of CTS Design Group, Suburban Design, and the Land-Tek Group who partnered with the Newark Public Schools’ Office of Facilities, Department of Health & Physical Education, as well as school-based and central office staff.
"The new field stands as a lasting investment that will enrich the experiences of students, fans, and the broader community for years to come," said Board President Council.
Superintendent León was joined by board members, elected officials, community members, administrators, and staff, along with athletes and members of the dance team, cheerleaders, and marching band.
This celebration comes on the heels of many other accomplishments for Weequahic High School, showcasing a trajectory of success. Notably, the school has increased enrollment, improved attendance, reduced chronic absenteeism, and historic achievement on the NJGPA last year due to the dedication and commitment of the administration, teachers, staff, parents, and students.
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 more, visit https://www.nps.k12.nj.us/
For media inquiries, please contact:
Nancy J. Deering, Acting Communications Director
ndeering@nullnps.k12.nj.us