Podcasts about Newark Public Schools

In the fifth episode of A Hot Time for Summer Learning, Wallace spotlights how, Alabama's Tuscaloosa City Schools and New Jersey's Newark Public Schools have completely re-imagined their summer learning programs, shifting from traditional summer school models to engaging, evidence-based experiences that help students learn and build new interests and skills.

John Arena examines the more than two-decade struggle to privatize public schools in Newark, New Jersey—a conflict that is raging in cities across the country. Arena's book Expelling Public Schools reveals the political rise of Cory Booker and Ras Baraka and what this particular case study illuminates about contemporary post-civil rights Black politics. Here, Arena is joined in conversation with David Forrest.John (Jay) Arena is associate professor of sociology at CUNY's College of Staten Island. Arena is author of Expelling Public Schools: How Antiracist Politics Enable School Privatization in Newark and Driven from New Orleans: How Nonprofits Betray Public Housing and Promote Privatization.David Forrest is associate professor of politics at Oberlin College. He is author of A Voice but No Power: Organizing for Social Justice in Minneapolis.Works and scholars referenced:Adolph Reed Jr. (Stirrings in the Jug)David M. Kotz (The Rise and Fall of Neoliberal Capitalism)Cedric JohnsonFrances Fox Piven (Challenging Authority)Jane McAlevey (No Shortcuts)Preston H. Smith II (Racial Democracy and the Black Metropolis)Sharon Kurtz (Workplace Justice)Marc Doussard and Greg Schrock (Justice at Work)Kristen Buras (Charter Schools, Race, and Urban Space)Touré Reed (Toward Freedom)Alf Gunvald Nilsen and Laurence Cox (We Make Our Own History)Colin Barker, Laurence Cox, John Krinsky, and Alf Gunvald Nilsen, editors (Marxism and Social Movements)Rosa Luxemburg (Rosa Luxemburg Speaks)Chris Maisano (“What Does Revolution Mean in the 21st Century?”, Jacobin)Mark R. Beissinger (The Revolutionary City)People and organizations referenced:Cory BookerChris ChristieRas BarakaNewark's downtown Teachers Village complexSharpe JamesCami AndersonChristopher CerfRandi WeingartenAlbert ShankerKaren LewisAl MoussabNewark Education WorkersThis episode was recorded in September 2023.Expelling Public Schools: How Antiracist Politics Enable School Privatization in Newark is available from University of Minnesota Press."Expelling Public Schools offers a fascinating look into the racial politics of corporate school reform in Newark Public Schools. John Arena takes a long view—just over two decades—and examines the reform movements and countermovements in the district from the top down and the bottom up. In assessing corporate school reform efforts under mayors Cory Booker and Ras Baraka, this deeply researched book illuminates the mechanisms that maintain educational inequality."—Rand Quinn, author of Class Action: Desegregation and Diversity in San Francisco Schools"It is rare to encounter a work that treats actually existing Black life, an approach best articulated by Cedric Johnson, to critically address contemporary Black urban regimes. Thoughtful, careful, and incisive, Expelling Public Schools does just that. In this moment when antiracism (and surface critiques of antiracism) is rife, John Arena's work provides a wonderful tonic."—Lester Spence, author of Stare in the Darkness: The Limits of Hip-hop and Black Politics

On this episode of “Lessons in Leadership,” Steve and Mary talk with Stanton Brown, EdD, Executive Director and Professor in the Practice of Leadership, Buccino Leadership Institute, Seton Hall University, about the connection between leadership, innovation and the leadership skills young adults need to succeed in the workforce. Then, Steve and Mary are joined by … Continue reading Lessons in Leadership: Stanton Brown, EdD, and Roger León, Superintendent, Newark Public Schools

On the August 26 edition of the WBGO Journal, we hear about plans to improve child literacy in Newark and football analyst Mike Golic Jr. talks about his family's Notre Dame tradition

You need to share bad news, a lay-off, a break-up, or even a death. How do you do it - with love and care?   For this Women of Color Rise episode, Analiza talks with Vanessa Rodgriuez, CEO of NYC Outward Bound Schools. Prior to this, Vanessa was the Chief Program Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer at Citizens of the World Charter Schools (CWCS). She joined CWCS after serving as the Talent Officer of Newark Public Schools (NPS). Vanessa is also the proud mom of a fifteen-year-old son and she enjoys spending time playing basketball with him.   Vanessa has led many hard transitions and turnarounds, including layoffs at Newark Public Schools. She shares the keys to having a difficult conversation: Center care for the other person and that this care means honesty. “I care about you and want to be honest.” Just say it. Start with the “bad news” and then follow up to figure out solutions. Keep the mission front and center. Vanessa would remind herself that the mission is to serve students not provide employment. Consider the politics and front loading communication with other stakeholders to get buy-in before delivering the news.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/ep-44-just-say-it-how-to-have-a-difficult-conversation-with-vanessa-rodriguez  

This episode features a special guest, the Mayor of Hillside, NJ. Dahlia Vertresse. Mayor Vertreese, the child of a police officer and nurse, was raised to become well informed of challenges and meet the needs of her community. Beginning her professional career in 2001 as a Labor and Employment Paralegal with Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and subsequently with Grotta, Glassman, and Hoffman PC, before taking a position as Labor Relations Specialist for the Newark Public Schools. Mayor Vertreese then transitioned to the classroom, teaching AP US-History/European, Sociology, Holocaust and Genocide, homework center coordinator, and literacy classes on Saturday mornings. Mayor Vertreese began her local public service after completing the AFL-CIO Labor Candidate School in 2015. Listen as Mayor Vertreese talks about going to College in the south, organizing her family and political life, and sharing her thoughts on community and what makes a community. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/christopher-cox40/message

In this edition of Lessons in Leadership, Steve Adubato and Mary Gamba are joined by Roger León, Superintendent, Newark Public Schools, about leading in a pandemic, what leadership skills our youth need to succeed and who inspired and mentored him as a leader. Then, Steve is joined by Kevin O'Toole, Chairman, Board of Commissioners, Port … Continue reading Lessons in Leadership: Roger León and Kevin O'Toole

Ulcca Joshi Hansen is an author, educational thought leader and social change advocate with a twenty-year career dedicated to shifting the foundational values and approaches that underpin America's education system. She currently serves as the Chief Program Officer for Grantmakers for Education, a partner organization for education philanthropists as they adapt to the changes impacting our world. Ulcca began her career as an elementary school teacher in Newark Public Schools. Over the last twenty years she has gained experience across the non-profit, public, and philanthropic sectors, in the US and abroad, leading programs, conducting research and crafting policy. In her most recent roles as Chief Strategy Officer at Boundless and Vice President at Education Reimagined, she built partnerships between schools, districts, non-profits and higher education institutions committed to expanding access to relationship-based, relevant and real-world learning experiences in the K-12 and post-secondary spaces. As Vice President of the Public Education and Business Coalition she expanded the Colorado Teacher Residency to become the first residency-based preparation program in the country to serve both urban and rural districts. She also redesigned the residency curriculum, grounding new teachers in the fields of learning science, human development and human well-being. Ulcca's recently released book, The Future of Smart: How Our Education System Needs to Change to Help All Young People Thrive, traces the roots of America's dominant approach to education, illuminates why so many reform and innovation efforts over the last three decades have fallen short and proposes a path forward. Ulcca earned her Ph.D. in Education and Philosophy from Oxford University and a JD from Harvard Law School. She has been recognized nationally for her work in education as a Harry S. Truman Scholar; a British Marshall Scholar; and a Paul and Daisy Soros Fellow. Social Links LinkedIn: @ulcca Twitter: @ulcca

Dupré “DoItAll” Kelly is an accomplished platinum selling recording artist and an award-winning Community Leader & Activist. Raised by a single mother, Dupré wrote songs at his home in the West Ward, of Newark, New Jersey, that would go on to sell millions of records with his group Lords of The Underground and impacted millions of people around the world.Dupré attended Shaw University, a HBCU located in Raleigh, North Carolina where he also pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. Being a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, is where he gained his love for community.Upon his return to Newark, NJ, Dupré started a not-for-profit organization called 211 Community Impact. Where the mission is to stimulate interest in community issues and foster action for change by providing innovative community educational programs, public policy information and resources.Dupré has received numerous awards and acknowledgments from the Newark Public Schools, as well as community organizations. He's also received awards and acknowledgements from several New Jersey cities such as, Irvington, Paterson, East Orange, Newark, and the New Jersey State Senate & United States Congress. Dupré is also an active board member of the Newark Arts Foundation. Connect with Dupré “DoItAll” KellyWebsite:             https://www.duprekelly.com/Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/doitall                                  https://www.instagram.com/doitallfornewark                                     https://www.instagram.com/thereal211ci                                  https://www.instagram.com/211win Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout                 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1847701Purchase Malik's First Job: Financial Principles for Teens:www.maliksfirstjob.com Follow Malik's First Job on Social Media Facebook:          https://www.facebook.com/maliksfirstjobInstagram:          https://www.instagram.com/maliksfirstjobTwitter:               https://www.twitter.com/maliksfirstjob

Newark's municipal elections are in full swing. Walking around the city, you will see political advertisements promoting the different candidates running for office. . According to the city clerk's office, there are 25 candidates running for 10 offices, including mayor, councilperson at large, and councilperson for the respective wards across the city. You may see debates on local television, read profiles in newspapers, engage with campaign volunteers on the street, or even attend events with the candidates. Here, on the podcast, we are striving to do our part in highlighting the importance of this election with interviews of candidates who have accepted our invitation to come on. Today, we have Councilwoman LaMonica McIver on to talk about her bid for re-election, her campaign for office, and her platform. Councilwoman McIver represents the Central Ward—which encompasses areas traditionally considered downtown, the area around University Hospital, much of Springfield Avenue, and most of Lower Broadway.Guest:LaMonica McIver—Councilwoman McIver currently represents the Central Ward (which happens to be my district) on the Newark City Council, a seat she has held since 2018, when she was first elected to the position. She grew up in the Central Ward and is a graduate of Central High School, Bloomfield College, and Seton Hall University. Before holding elected office, she worked in Newark Public Schools, serving as a clerk, a system analyst, and eventually as a Human Resources Regional Partners. She founded Newark GALS, Inc. in 2021, a nonprofit that provides enrichment camps for young women in Newark. Councilwoman McIver is also running on the Team Baraka ticket, which includes candidates endorsed by Mayor Baraka.Background & Articles:McIver's Candidate Website: hereNewark Election Registration: here

In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the sports world reflecting 20 years post 9/11, a huge loss for Boston school sports, a pro soccer star speaking out about women's rights and sports in wake of the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, sustainable projects taking over international soccer and a new reality show competition that is making many people shake their heads. Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform! Featured Articles: ESPN.com - How 9/11 continues to resonate throughout college football 20 years later The Boston Globe - A loss for Boston school sports: Major support program shutters Essex News Daily - Malcolm Jenkins Foundation and Newark Public Schools announce partnership CNN.com - Nadia Nadim: 'I'm actually the picture of everything the Taliban don't want their women to be' GoodGoodGood.co - This UK Soccer Club is Trialing Edible Coffee Cups OutSports.com - Each of America's big 5 sports currently has an out gay man in the pros. That's never happened Impact on Instagram - What are your thoughts on #TheActivist? --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bigleaguephil/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/bigleaguephil/support

Join host Ben Green aka Ben G!~Mr.RNB! as he shares a segment from his life experience. This episode opens the door to Education. Ben spent most of his career in the Radio/TV business behind the scenes. In 2007, he became a Substitute Teacher in the Newark Public Schools district. He taught First Grade from 2009-2010 as a F/T Substitute and encountered a challenging experience. Ben impressed his colleagues as well as students and parents. One particular student reached out and found Ben on InstaGram. It is here where our story begins. Ms. Kayana Clarke shared with Mr. Green, her thankfulness for what he taught her and the lessons she has learned and held on to till this day. She gives Mr. Green credit for building her confidence and allowing her to grow and fly with intelligence. VIDEO vers.: https://youtu.be/pRkAsT_Gvs4 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whereiveben-1/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whereiveben-1/support

Artist Bisa Butler at the Art Institute of Chicago. phot: John J. Kim. Bisa Butler was born in Orange, NJ, the daughter of a college president and a French teacher. She was raised in South Orange and the youngest of four siblings.  Butler's artistic talent was first recognized at the age of four, when she won a blue ribbon in an art competition. Formally trained , Butler graduated Cum Laude from Howard University with a Bachelor's in Fine Art degree.  It was during her education at Howard that Butler was able to refine her natural talents under the tutelage of lecturers such as Lois Mailou Jones, Elizabeth Catlett, Jeff Donaldson and Ernie Barnes. She began to experiment with fabric as a medium and became interested in collage techniques. Butler then went on to earn a Masters in Art from Montclair State University in 2005. While in the process of obtaining her Masters degree Butler took a Fiber Arts class where she had an artistic epiphany and she finally realized how to express her art.   "As a child, I was always watching my mother and grandmother sew, and they taught me. After that class, I made a portrait quilt for my grandmother on her deathbed, and I have been making art quilts  ever since." Bisa Butler was a high school art teacher for 10 years in the Newark Public Schools and 3 years at Columbia High School in Maplewood, New Jersey. In February 2021 Bisa was awarded a United States Artist fellowship.Butler's work is currently the focus of a solo exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago, the second stop of a traveling exhibit which began at the Katonah Museum of Art. She is represented by the Claire Oliver Gallery of New York. Butlers work has been acquired by many private and public collections including The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture,The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, The Art Institute of Chicago, The Museum of Fine Arts Boston, The Nelson-Adkins Museum , 21cMuseum Hotels, The Kemper Museum of Art, The Orlando Museum of Art, The Newark Museum, The Toledo Museum of Art and the Minneapolis Institute of Art. *Don't Tread On Me , God Damn, Let's Go! ; The Harlem Hellfighters, 2021 Cotton, silk, wool and velvet * a work in progress, Photo by Bisa Butler I Go To Prepare A Place For You, Harriet Tubman's last words ,2021 Cotton, silk ,wool and velvet 120” x 120” Quilted and appliquéd Photo by John Butler

We are excited to bring you Inclusion 360, a special podcast series that with bring the inclusion discussion full circle. Inclusion 360 is the culminating event wrapping up our year of learning, exploring and implementing inclusionary best practices and diving deep into how to be an Inclusionary Leader. This work has been made possible by a generous grant from OSPI. Our AWSP Team has assembled some of the most dynamic, sought after inclusion experts in the country to bring you this special six-episode series. This podcast series with feature LeDerick Horne, Keith Jones, Dr. Lauren Katzman, Dr. Alfredo Artiles and Glenna Gallo. And that's not all, On May 10th, 2021, you can meet this amazing team of experts for a FREE live webinar. You do not want to miss this event, so go on to our website (https://awsp.org/professional-learning/training-conferences/inclusion-360) and register for the Inclusion 360 webinar. For now, enjoy this podcast series. Lauren Katzman, EdD. is the Executive Director of the Urban Collaborative and Associate Research Professor at Arizona State University. She is also an adjunct professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Prior to this work, she served as the Assistant to the Superintendent for Special Education Services for the Newark Public Schools and the Executive director of special education in the New York City Department of Education. In both of these positions, she developed and led significant reform efforts, increasing academic achievement, inclusive educational and experiential options, reliable data management, and statutory/regulatory compliance. She worked to develop strong interdisciplinary partnerships between districts, states, universities, advocacy groups, and communities to build the foundation for deep and sustaining systemic reforms. Prior to these two high-level and demanding school district leadership positions, Dr. Katzman served as Associate Professor of Special Education at Boston University and co-authored the book Effective Inclusive Schools: Effective Inclusive Schools: Designing Successful Schoolwide Programs with Dr. Thomas Hehir, former Director of the Office of Special Education Programs at the U.S. Department of Education. She was also a special education teacher for 14 years in St. Louis, New Jersey, and New York City and has conducted program evaluations of the special education services for the District of Columbia Public Schools, the state of Massachusetts, Ithaca Public Schools, and the New York City Department of Education. Special Guest: Dr. Lauren Katzman.

Akbar H. Cook Sr. was born and raised in Newark's West Ward. He attended Essex Catholic High School, where he excelled as a student and basketball player. Mr. Cook attended college on two basketball scholarships, attending St. Catherine's College in Kentucky before graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Florida Atlantic University, a Division I university in Boca Raton, Florida. He went on to receive a Master's Degree in Administration from St. Peters University in Jersey City in 2006. Mr. Cook's love for children and basketball led him to Newark Vocational School in 2008, where he became head coach of the Boys' Basketball Team, and in 2012, he was named Vice Principal of West Side High School. Mr. Cook is well known for having a stern, yet caring presence in the lives of many of Newark's youth. His desire to uplift and educate children is always at the forefront of his work in Newark Public Schools. Mr. Cook volunteers in food kitchens and participates in Christmas tree and toy drives. He also organizes recreational activities for Newark Public School students and works closely with the Newark Police Department to ensure safe transportation for all students after school functions. In addition to serving as a Vice Principal at West Side High School and head basketball coach, Mr. Cook also serves as co-director of Greater Newark's LifeCamp, a summer camp for inner city youth.

Meet Priyank Bhatt, a lead math teacher at West Side High School, part of the Newark Public Schools in New Jersey. When he was a child, Priyank moved from India to the U.S., and learned English with the help of a dedicated ESL teacher and by watching cartoons with his friends. Even while he was struggling with the language barrier, Priyank discovered that math was universal, and began to tutor his friends when they struggled in class. By the time he was pursuing a master’s in education from Montclair State University, he had also begun working in Newark as an urban educator and has been there ever since. Learning Moments: Teachers in America profiles K–12 teachers across the country. Hear firsthand from the people who are shaping young lives in the classroom every day. If you or someone you know would be a good candidate for Teachers in America, please email us at shaped@hmhco.com.During this time, HMH is supporting educators and parents with free learning resources for students. You can visit hmhco.com/learningsupport for more information.

Cale Halley chats with speech and debate coach Kurt Shelton to discuss how speech and debate in China has grown since NSDA China's inception and where it could be headed.Kurt Shelton is currently teaching at RDFZ Kings College in Hangzhou after teaching for three years at Hangzhou Foreign Language School. Prior to working for Dipont Education, Kurt Shelton was Youth Activities Supervisor for the Newark Public Schools and coached the Rutgers Newark Debate Team. He has over 20 year’s experience of coaching successful debate and public speaking programs. His students have won the NDT and CEDA National Debate Championships four times including two collegiate Top Speaker Awards. He has been awarded with the 1997 Lexington Coaches Award of Excellence in Public Speaking, the 2005 Sandra Deleon Award of Service and the 2010 Jersey Urban Debate League “Coach of the Year”. His students were the 2011 National Association of Urban Debate League High School National Champions. His students have earned national recognition and been invited to meet with President Obama in the Oval office. They have also been awarded the 2010 Jackie Robinson Scholarship, the 2011 Bank of America Student Leadership Summit Award, and the 2010 NAACP student of the year by the Newark chapter.

Today on Luv Radio Network. *4/22 - Your Host - Deatra Bailey "The Young People's Experience" *Show topic: “Reading and Feeding The Mind with Lady Rose" *Guest: Ritta Book "Lady Rose. A native of Newark, NJ, Cynthia “Lady Rose” Roberson holds a Master's of Library Media Specialization and has devoted 15 years of service to Newark Public Schools as a school library media specialist of grades Pre Kindergarten – 12. She’s the Author/Creator of RITTA BOOK a literary concept developed to Feed the Need for Young Minds to Read!

Where do I begin with Jordan? I suppose I can talk about how we first met. I was assigned by the Harvard Club to interview a student from University High School in Newark, one they were quite interested in. The person I met astounded me. He was easily admitted into Harvard. However, and unfortunately, he decided to attend Princeton instead. Still, we’ve kept in touch, and I remain fascinated by every thing he does. Rather than explain who he is in this article, I ask that you listen to the episode to get the full sense of Jordan.Guest:Jordan Thomas—Jordan is a 2018 graduate of Princeton University, where a successful academic career culminated in such distinctions as Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, the Myron T. Herrick Thesis Prize, and a 2018 Spirit of Princeton Award. At Princeton, he concentrated in Public and International Affairs; he received dual certificates in Portuguese Language and Culture and in African American Studies; and he focused his academic coursework on poverty, inequality, and social mobility. Jordan is particularly interested in the role that law, public policy, and high-quality education play in expanding access and opportunity for disadvantaged populations. In addition, he has a growing interest in impact investment, urban economic development, and the ways in which the power of capital can be harnessed for social good. As one of 32 American students selected from a pool of over 2,500 applicants to receive a 2018 Rhodes Scholarship -- the first Rhodes Scholar in the history of the Newark Public Schools system -- Jordan recently completed a year of postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. He spent this year pursuing a Master's degree in Evidence-Based Social Intervention and Policy Evaluation. Jordan will spend the next two years gaining professional experience before enrolling at both Yale Law School and Harvard Business School for a unique JD/MBA dual degree between the two institutions. Ultimately, he intends to engage in work that most directly promotes equal opportunity, social mobility, and justice for all.Background & Articles:Some articles featuring Jordan: here; here; hereA website for help with eating disorders: hereQuote:”There are not enough roses in the world for me to lay at the feet of this impossible group, but I hope this effort counts. I hope Phife can see all of us trying, from wherever he may be. I hope Q-Tip knows that he’s done something great. I hope when the time comes for the generation after mine to talk about what’s real , they’ll pull a Tribe CD out of their pockets, worn down from a decade’s use and perhaps an older sibling. I hope they’ll put it in a CD player and let a room be carried away.” —Hanif Abdurraqib, Go Ahead in the Rain: Notes to a Tribe Called Quest

Steve Adubato is joined by Roger Leon, Superintendent, Newark Public Schools, to discuss the importance of leadership and communication in education.

After 23 years of state control of Newark Public Schools, local control has come back to the elected Board of Education. This spring, we had our first election where incumbent members of the re-empowered Board of Education ran against a new slate of candidates. One of these new candidates was A’Dorian Murray-Thomas. She won a seat on the board with the largest number of votes of any candidate. A'Dorian joins the Pod & Market podcast to discuss her vision as a board member, her policy goals, and what she brings to the table.

Educational Podcasting Today is a weekly podcast that celebrates podcasters and podcasting. Its mission is to help educators learn how to create podcasts and amazing WordPress websites for their podcasts. For more information, please visit www.EducationalPodcasting.today. In today's show, we ask the question “How can our school districts use WordPress as our main website platform?” Learn how to combine WordPress and Google Apps for Education to create a seamless digital hub for your school community. Learn how school districts both large and small are utilizing WordPress as a way of saving money and effectively managing both information and personnel. Learn how you can potentially save hundreds of thousands of dollars from your budget by applying for FREE web hosting with major players in the web hosting world. Show TopicsWhy make the move to WordPress? Can WordPress and Google coexist? What do you need to look for in a web designer? How does a school district migrate all of its current data into a WordPress environment? Empowering Teachers and Support Staff through the use of WordPress and Google Tools  Links of Interest http://k12presser.com (http://k12presser.com) http://cameronbarrett.com (http://cameronbarrett.com) http://linkedin.com/in/camworld (http://linkedin.com/in/camworld) http://twitter.com/camworld (http://twitter.com/camworld) http://about.me/cam/ (http://about.me/cam/) About Our GuestCameron Barrett has been working in the web design and development industry for 20 years. He co-founded a dial-up ISP in Northern Michigan in 1995, taught “new media design” classes in 1996, pioneered the blog format in the late 1990s, and has since gone on to build large online community sites for General Wesley Clark (2004 presidential campaign), John Kerry, the U.S. Army (at West Point), The World Economic Forum and dozens of other companies, NGOs, and non-profits both large and small. He is responsible for the 70+ WordPress multisite that powers the district and school websites of Newark Public Schools, the largest district in NJ. Using WordPress, he cut the district's website operating budget in half after the first year and is on target to cut in half again for year two. Cameron is now spinning up a “WordPress for Schools” services-based company called K12Presser that promises to bring this costs-savings model to all 14,000+ public school districts in the country. He encourages you to contact him to find out how he can help your district migrate off the expensive, proprietary, vendor-controlled, not-very-good SaaS solutions currently powering most district and school websites.  

We’ll be discussing local control of Newark Public Schools during our live broadcast of Newark Today Thursday October 19 at 8PM. We invite the community to be a part of the audience at Express Newark in the downtown district’s historic Hahne’s building. Your host, NJTV’s Michael Hill will be joined by city Mayor Ras Baraka and a panel of guests. Doors open tonight at 7:15. Newark Today live October 19 at 8PM on WBGO and wbgo.org Now that Newark Public Schools are in position to regain control of governance from the state, parents are asking if the city is ready. “To be honest with you I’m not really sure,” said Alexis Jones of Parents Educating Parents, a Newark based organization that advises families towards educational success for their children. “As a parent, I think I should have a say in what happens with my child’s education.” “There you have it. We have a parent that is unsure and that should never happen in the district.” Yolonda Johnson is the founder of Parents Educating

Christopher Cerf, Superintendent of Newark Public Schools, reflects on his work and the history of Newark Public Schools.

Curious what Chris Cerf has learned from a career in policy working for both Democrats and Republicans, and now as the Superintendent of Newark City Public Schools? Then this episode of The Leaders' Table is for you!

Like Sharpe James and Cory Booker before him, Ras Baraka became the third straight former city councilman turned mayor in 2014. And like the mayors who preceded him, he knows how to fire up a crowd. “We need a mayor who unapologetically loves this city and the people in it. And most importantly, we need a mayor that believes in you and knows no fear. I am thankful to god that today you have chosen me to be this mayor,” Baraka said during his inauguration speech in 2014. The Baraka name is rooted deep in Newark history. He’s the son of poets and civil rights activists Amina and Amiri Baraka. A proud product and principal of Newark Public Schools, Ras Baraka has taken his passion for the districts best interests to city hall, in hopes the state will return the schools back to local control. “We have to remain more vigilant, more focused on the goal which is to return the operation of the school district into the hands of the people.” Baraka’s administration has made great strides since

Recorded at NJ Spotlight On Cities, held October 16th, 2015 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center Panelists: Chris Cerf, superintendent of Newark Public Schools and former New Jersey commissioner of education Paul Tractenberg, co-director, Institute On Education Law and Policy and founder of the Education Law Center; Drew Martin, executive director, KIPP-Cooper Norcross Academy in Camden Moderated by NJ Spotlight education writer and founding editor John Mooney

EPISODE 332 WIT' AUTHOR YARA KALEEMAH AND JERRY ROYCE LIVE ON POSITIVEPOWER21. BOOK TITLE: Even The Bluest Eyes Tell Lies [Kindle Edition]About the AuthorYara Kaleemah was born in Newark, NJ in the early 90’s. As a child she would spend hours writing stories. When her friends were outside, playing, she was in the house writing. Being that she was an only child she had a lot of time on her hands. Naturally, when people asked what she wanted to be when she grew up she would say “an author.” She is a leader. In 2006, Newark Public Schools opened the doors to American History High School, where she was a part of its first class. Being a part of the trial run at the school a loud her to help build the school’s motto and have a voice in what the school’s expectations were. As a freshman, Yara was voted class president. From then on, she worked as a spokeswoman for the student body. As her thirst for knowledge grew, she graduated from American History High School and enrolled in New Jersey City University. Studying to become an English Teacher seemed to be the right fit for her. She loves to read and write. Most of all, Yara is passionate about education, as she believes that academic excellence is the key to the future. Recently, however, she changed her course of study to Sociology and plans to become a youth counselor. In 2013, Yara published her first novella, Too Much to Chew. It was the greatest accomplishment. Soon after came three more outstanding urban fiction novels. Then, she started S.W.A.G Productions. Wanted to establish something creative, they decided that the acronym stands for Strong Women Achieving Greatness. SWAG Productions is a platform for self-published authors. The company offers services such as editing, proofreading, and typing. Now, Yara is working hard at school and becoming a bestselling author. Sometimes it is difficult to juggle motherhood, being a wife, a student, an author, and a publisher but she manages. With hard work and dedication she will achieve all of her goals. Books by Yara KaleemahBrick City Chick- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JDW66N6Camilla Morrell was on her way to college, living like a princess when she met her first love Duke. Duke was charming and swept the girl off of her feet. Then, the summer ended and their teenage love affair dwindled. That’s when TJ stepped on the scene. He was older and street wise. The girl was overwhelmed with excitement when she became his girl, however, his love was way more than she bargained for. Finally, the girl came to her senses and kicked him to the curb. She never expected to be expecting but Duke saved the day. Will TJ sit around and allow another man to take care of his seed? Would Camilla be able to accept the fact Duke would do whatever it takes to keep her safe?Brick City Chick 2: Strange Fruit- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OV5WC5QJust when it seemed like things were settling down for Camilla and Duke, a member of the Diamonds of Hearts decides that showing off is more important than his loyalty to the most notorious street gang of Newark, NJ. Newark’s war on crime has never seen anything quite like the scene at the Shakil Williams Playground. When loyalty dies, so does Spruce. Blood could not be any thicker than a noose. All hell is getting ready to break loose and a tree in this town will bear a strange fruit. As Detective Xena Myers zeros in on the suspects of a brutal murder, witnesses start to die and buried secrets of Camilla and Duke will be revealed. Will a forgotten handgun send the Brick City Chick to jail for the rest of her life or is there a far more sinister plan in line for the Diamonds of Hearts?Jasim- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RI7QZMUJasim Williamson’s life crumbled and burned when his parents were killed during the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center. Devastation sent him on a downhill spiral of destruction until he met Zakiyyah Ali. Though he could see no more than her eyes, he felt a sensational connection to her. Demons of his past will surface though and change the course of his life. Will his love for Zakiyyah grow or will she sit back and let it die? This love story illuminates family values, religion, and one man's journey of pain and gain.Gossip Village - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TM6UHECGossip Village is a story told from the view point of Mrs. Ida Mae Peabody, the nosey neighbor. Mrs. Peabody takes us through the rollercoaster lifestyles of several members of a Newark NJ housing complex. Mita and Javier have been together through drugs and jail. Mita is trying to save her marriage but she finds herself in a whirlwind of drama when Javier is arrested, leaving her high and dry. Will she stick by her husband or find stability in the arms of another man? Vanessa has been doing drugs most of her life, sleeping with everyone for a taste of the dope. The only person she seeks love from is dying. Will she sober up or use dope to numb her pain? Marianna was living in the fast lane, seeking attention from the corner boys. She just wants to get her box wet but has she bitten off more than she can chew by knowingly sleeping with two men who don't know they are father and son? While Mrs. Peabody wastes no time telling everybody's business she is keeping a terrible secret of her own. Will she be able to fess up before a fatal disease eats her alive? Gossip Village is full of drama, secrets, and betrayal. Yara Kaleemah is bringing her ‘A’ game in this uniquely told novel, depicting the lives of ordinary people.Please Don’t Kill Me: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NCBZ75WPlease Don’t Kill Me: An Anthology against Domestic Violence is a compilation of short stories, written to advocate against and raise awareness for domestic violence. Some of the stories depicted in this anthology are based upon true stories while others are fiction. Domestic Violence affects thousands of women, men, and children across the country each year. In an effort to give back, using our unique talents, the proceeds for Please Don’t Kill Me: An Anthology against Domestic Violence, will be donated to domestic violence organizations around the country. Even the Bluest Eyes Tell Lies: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VMFE620 The history of a small Alaskan town is about to change drastically. In a place where everyone seems to know everything about everybody, no one was prepared for the scene at the home of the beloved Sherriff. Madison Turnoff wanted nothing more than a family. She did everything right and when she found out that she and her husband would be welcoming a baby boy into their family she couldn’t be more excited. Their happiness was cut short when she miscarried. Michelle Spencer was pregnant with her first child and trapped in a loveless marriage. Although she would do anything to protect her baby, she knew that the only way out was in death. Forced to make hard sacrifices, she leaned on the help of her new friend, Madison. By the end of this daunting tale, the truth will linger; even the bluest eyes tell lies.Contact Yara:Website: www.yarakaleemah.com Email: swagproductions2014@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006212446013Twitter: @_SWAGBOOKS_ AuthorGraph: http://www.authorgraph.com/authors/_SWAGBOOKS_Blog Talk Radio: www.blogtalkradio.com/swagaliousradio

EPISODE 332 WIT' AUTHOR YARA KALEEMAH AND JERRY ROYCE LIVE ON POSITIVEPOWER21. BOOK TITLE: Even The Bluest Eyes Tell Lies [Kindle Edition]About the AuthorYara Kaleemah was born in Newark, NJ in the early 90’s. As a child she would spend hours writing stories. When her friends were outside, playing, she was in the house writing. Being that she was an only child she had a lot of time on her hands. Naturally, when people asked what she wanted to be when she grew up she would say “an author.” She is a leader. In 2006, Newark Public Schools opened the doors to American History High School, where she was a part of its first class. Being a part of the trial run at the school a loud her to help build the school’s motto and have a voice in what the school’s expectations were. As a freshman, Yara was voted class president. From then on, she worked as a spokeswoman for the student body. As her thirst for knowledge grew, she graduated from American History High School and enrolled in New Jersey City University. Studying to become an English Teacher seemed to be the right fit for her. She loves to read and write. Most of all, Yara is passionate about education, as she believes that academic excellence is the key to the future. Recently, however, she changed her course of study to Sociology and plans to become a youth counselor. In 2013, Yara published her first novella, Too Much to Chew. It was the greatest accomplishment. Soon after came three more outstanding urban fiction novels. Then, she started S.W.A.G Productions. Wanted to establish something creative, they decided that the acronym stands for Strong Women Achieving Greatness. SWAG Productions is a platform for self-published authors. The company offers services such as editing, proofreading, and typing. Now, Yara is working hard at school and becoming a bestselling author. Sometimes it is difficult to juggle motherhood, being a wife, a student, an author, and a publisher but she manages. With hard work and dedication she will achieve all of her goals. Books by Yara KaleemahBrick City Chick- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JDW66N6Camilla Morrell was on her way to college, living like a princess when she met her first love Duke. Duke was charming and swept the girl off of her feet. Then, the summer ended and their teenage love affair dwindled. That’s when TJ stepped on the scene. He was older and street wise. The girl was overwhelmed with excitement when she became his girl, however, his love was way more than she bargained for. Finally, the girl came to her senses and kicked him to the curb. She never expected to be expecting but Duke saved the day. Will TJ sit around and allow another man to take care of his seed? Would Camilla be able to accept the fact Duke would do whatever it takes to keep her safe?Brick City Chick 2: Strange Fruit- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OV5WC5QJust when it seemed like things were settling down for Camilla and Duke, a member of the Diamonds of Hearts decides that showing off is more important than his loyalty to the most notorious street gang of Newark, NJ. Newark’s war on crime has never seen anything quite like the scene at the Shakil Williams Playground. When loyalty dies, so does Spruce. Blood could not be any thicker than a noose. All hell is getting ready to break loose and a tree in this town will bear a strange fruit. As Detective Xena Myers zeros in on the suspects of a brutal murder, witnesses start to die and buried secrets of Camilla and Duke will be revealed. Will a forgotten handgun send the Brick City Chick to jail for the rest of her life or is there a far more sinister plan in line for the Diamonds of Hearts?Jasim- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RI7QZMUJasim Williamson’s life crumbled and burned when his parents were killed during the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center. Devastation sent him on a downhill spiral of destruction until he met Zakiyyah Ali. Though he could see no more than her eyes, he felt a sensational connection to her. Demons of his past will surface though and change the course of his life. Will his love for Zakiyyah grow or will she sit back and let it die? This love story illuminates family values, religion, and one man's journey of pain and gain.Gossip Village - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TM6UHECGossip Village is a story told from the view point of Mrs. Ida Mae Peabody, the nosey neighbor. Mrs. Peabody takes us through the rollercoaster lifestyles of several members of a Newark NJ housing complex. Mita and Javier have been together through drugs and jail. Mita is trying to save her marriage but she finds herself in a whirlwind of drama when Javier is arrested, leaving her high and dry. Will she stick by her husband or find stability in the arms of another man? Vanessa has been doing drugs most of her life, sleeping with everyone for a taste of the dope. The only person she seeks love from is dying. Will she sober up or use dope to numb her pain? Marianna was living in the fast lane, seeking attention from the corner boys. She just wants to get her box wet but has she bitten off more than she can chew by knowingly sleeping with two men who don't know they are father and son? While Mrs. Peabody wastes no time telling everybody's business she is keeping a terrible secret of her own. Will she be able to fess up before a fatal disease eats her alive? Gossip Village is full of drama, secrets, and betrayal. Yara Kaleemah is bringing her ‘A’ game in this uniquely told novel, depicting the lives of ordinary people.Please Don’t Kill Me: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NCBZ75WPlease Don’t Kill Me: An Anthology against Domestic Violence is a compilation of short stories, written to advocate against and raise awareness for domestic violence. Some of the stories depicted in this anthology are based upon true stories while others are fiction. Domestic Violence affects thousands of women, men, and children across the country each year. In an effort to give back, using our unique talents, the proceeds for Please Don’t Kill Me: An Anthology against Domestic Violence, will be donated to domestic violence organizations around the country. Even the Bluest Eyes Tell Lies: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VMFE620 The history of a small Alaskan town is about to change drastically. In a place where everyone seems to know everything about everybody, no one was prepared for the scene at the home of the beloved Sherriff. Madison Turnoff wanted nothing more than a family. She did everything right and when she found out that she and her husband would be welcoming a baby boy into their family she couldn’t be more excited. Their happiness was cut short when she miscarried. Michelle Spencer was pregnant with her first child and trapped in a loveless marriage. Although she would do anything to protect her baby, she knew that the only way out was in death. Forced to make hard sacrifices, she leaned on the help of her new friend, Madison. By the end of this daunting tale, the truth will linger; even the bluest eyes tell lies.Contact Yara:Website: www.yarakaleemah.com Email: swagproductions2014@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006212446013Twitter: @_SWAGBOOKS_ AuthorGraph: http://www.authorgraph.com/authors/_SWAGBOOKS_Blog Talk Radio: www.blogtalkradio.com/swagaliousradio

The Newark Trust for Education held a forum for Newark Public Schools Advisory Board candidates on Tuesday, April 14.  Six candidates attended the forum to answer questions about the issues facing Newark Public Schools, which has been under state control since 1995. Listen to learn where the candidates stand on the issues.

EPISODE 151 ON JERRY ROYCE LIVE!BOOKS - Gossip Village by Yara Kaleemah (Apr 29, 2014) and Brick City Chick [Kindle Edition]www.swagproductions.comYara Kaleemah was born in Newark, NJ in the early 90’s. As a child she would spend hours writing stories. When her friends were outside, playing, she was in the house writing. Being that she was an only child she had a lot of time on her hands. Naturally, when people asked what she wanted to be when she grew up she would say “an author.” She is a leader. In 2006, Newark Public Schools opened the doors to American History High School, where she was a part of its first class. Being a part of the trial run at the school a loud her to help build the school’s motto and have a voice in what the school’s expectations were. As a freshman, Yara was voted class president. From then on, she worked as a spokeswoman for the student body. As her thirst for knowledge grew, she graduated from American History High School and enrolled in New Jersey City University. Studying to become an English Teacher seemed to be the right fit for her. She loves to read and write. Most of all, Yara is passionate about education, as she believes that academic excellence is the key to the future. Recently, however, she changed her course of study to Sociology and plans to become a youth counselor. In 2013, Yara published her first novella, Too Much to Chew. It was the greatest accomplishment. Soon after came three more outstanding urban fiction novels. Then, she started S.W.A.G Productions. Wanted to establish something creative, they decided that the acronym stands for Strong Women Achieving Greatness. SWAG Productions is a platform for self-published authors. The company offers services such as editing, proofreading, and typing. She is also signed to Dub Life Publications with Rio Terrell and is host of SWAG Radio. Now, Yara is working hard at school and becoming a bestselling author. Sometimes it is difficult to juggle motherhood, being a wife, a student, an author, and a publisher but she manages. With hard work and dedication she will achieve all of her goals. www.swagproductions.com

EPISODE 151 ON JERRY ROYCE LIVE!BOOKS - Gossip Village by Yara Kaleemah (Apr 29, 2014) and Brick City Chick [Kindle Edition]www.swagproductions.comYara Kaleemah was born in Newark, NJ in the early 90’s. As a child she would spend hours writing stories. When her friends were outside, playing, she was in the house writing. Being that she was an only child she had a lot of time on her hands. Naturally, when people asked what she wanted to be when she grew up she would say “an author.” She is a leader. In 2006, Newark Public Schools opened the doors to American History High School, where she was a part of its first class. Being a part of the trial run at the school a loud her to help build the school’s motto and have a voice in what the school’s expectations were. As a freshman, Yara was voted class president. From then on, she worked as a spokeswoman for the student body. As her thirst for knowledge grew, she graduated from American History High School and enrolled in New Jersey City University. Studying to become an English Teacher seemed to be the right fit for her. She loves to read and write. Most of all, Yara is passionate about education, as she believes that academic excellence is the key to the future. Recently, however, she changed her course of study to Sociology and plans to become a youth counselor. In 2013, Yara published her first novella, Too Much to Chew. It was the greatest accomplishment. Soon after came three more outstanding urban fiction novels. Then, she started S.W.A.G Productions. Wanted to establish something creative, they decided that the acronym stands for Strong Women Achieving Greatness. SWAG Productions is a platform for self-published authors. The company offers services such as editing, proofreading, and typing. She is also signed to Dub Life Publications with Rio Terrell and is host of SWAG Radio. Now, Yara is working hard at school and becoming a bestselling author. Sometimes it is difficult to juggle motherhood, being a wife, a student, an author, and a publisher but she manages. With hard work and dedication she will achieve all of her goals. www.swagproductions.com