In 1995, the state of New Jersey took over the Newark Public Schools, citing years of neglect, failure to meet standards, and misuse of public funds. The district still remains under state control with little change.

Newark has seen a dramatic decline in enrollment, and has not realized the performance gains the state takeover sought to lead.
In the 2008-2009 school year, Newark’s graduation rate was 54%, with many students unable to pass the state high school exit exam. Test scores district-wide are far below the state average with the achievement gap widening as students’ progress through the grades. While several promising efforts are underway - including a strong pre-K system - too many of the 40,000 students in Newark’s schools do not receive a high-quality education that will prepare them for success in their adult lives.

Newark’s charter school sector is among the strongest in the nation. In the 2009-2010 school year, 13 charter schools with 20 campuses served 5,800 students. While some of the country’s best charter schools serve Newark, thousands of students remain on waitlists seeking better options.

As school board member president Shavar Jeffries writes, many believe Newark public schools need teacher tenure reform, performance evaluation, merit pay for teachers, and more charter schools. Newark’s charter school sector is among the strongest in the nation.

Be a part of the local movement by getting involved with your local Waiting for “Superman” campaign.