Ewing, NJ (July 31, 2019) – Today, the eight schools of KIPP NJ’s Newark region were honored for exhibiting a unique combination of employing best practices and improving student academic performance at the 2019 New Jersey Department of Education Statewide Conference: Equity for All.
The recognition, which has been conferred upon 11 districts throughout the state, is awarded biennially to districts which have, over the course of several years, achieved academic growth for diverse students.
As a Lighthouse District, KIPP Newark will join a strong network of districts across New Jersey that are working toward continuous improvement for their students through data-driven, individualized approaches to teaching and learning.
The Lighthouse District Initiative is designed to elevate and empower these sorts of forward-thinking entities, giving them access to mentoring opportunities across Lighthouse Districts; diversity, equity and inclusion training; and other structured professional learning experiences.
In addition to KIPP NJ Newark, the 2019 Lighthouse Districts are Little Falls, Long Branch, Ocean City, Paul Robeson Charter, Perth Amboy, Red Bank Borough, Somerville, Waterford, Washington Borough and West Deptford.
“Over the past 17 years, we have worked tirelessly to create and reinforce a culture of joy, achievement, and excellence in our schools,” said Joanna Belcher, Executive Director of KIPP Newark.
“We are proud of our scholars’ hard work and grateful for our teachers who go above and beyond to make sure our kids experience the well-rounded education they deserve. It is a great honor to be recognized by the New Jersey Department of Education for continuous improvement and commitment to supporting every student who is part of our team and family.”
KIPP New Jersey will belong to this cohort of Lighthouse Districts for two years, beginning in July 2019 and ending in July 2021.
In the weeks ahead, KIPP New Jersey leaders, along with leaders from other awarded Lighthouse Districts, will take part in a Lighthouse District Summit, celebrating the award, exchanging information and learning about the resources that they now have at their disposal.
“Lighthouse Districts can serve as beacons of success for public education in New Jersey,” said Dr. Lamont O. Repollet, Commissioner of Education. “We recognize Lighthouse Districts for tremendous academic gains, for demonstrating that all schools can excel and all students can achieve.”