The Terrier Tribune: January 2025

Dear Parents

Happy New Year!

December was an exciting month filled with vibrant activities and remarkable achievements. From the spirited energy of our Spirit Week to the generosity displayed during our Toy Drive, our students have demonstrated the true spirit of community and giving. Additionally, Newark Tech proudly celebrated the incredible achievements of our students who earned a place on the Principal’s Honor Roll and Honor Roll! These outstanding scholars exemplify what it means to strive for excellence, demonstrating relentless dedication, hard work, and a commitment to their education.

We also celebrated the impressive accomplishments of our Newark Debate Team and Speech participants, who continue to make us proud with their eloquence and dedication. A special congratulations to the Boys Basketball Team for winning the Newark Tech Winter Basketball Classic Champions. They shined as they showcased their hard work and persistence on the court! Our Newark Tech Lady Terriers also made it to the finals of the Essex County Schools of Technology Winter Basketball Tournament.

Thank you for your unwavering support in making our school a place of excellence and unity. Wishing you all a new year filled with warmth, happiness, and good health.

At Newark Tech, the holiday spirit was in full swing as students and staff came together to make Holiday Spirit Week unforgettable! Each day brought excitement, creativity, and unity, with vibrant activities like Twin Day, where matching outfits filled the halls, and Teachers and Students Switch Day, which sparked joy and laughter within our school. Ugly Sweater Day showcased everyone’s most hilariously festive attire, while Black Out Day supported our boys basketball team. Finally, Polar Express Day warmed our hearts with cozy pajamas and holiday cheer. Spirit Week truly captured the spirit of togetherness and celebration that makes Newark Tech so special!

Newark Tech students embodied the true spirit of giving this holiday season through two impactful Toy Drive initiatives. The Black Students Union Club led the way by donating toys to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), bringing joy and comfort to children in foster care. Meanwhile, our National Honor Society demonstrated their compassion by collecting and distributing toys to children in need, ensuring no child was left without a reason to smile. These acts of generosity and kindness reflect the heart of our school community...a place where students not only strive for excellence but also uplift and support those in need. Together, we made a difference, spreading hope and holiday cheer to so many young lives!

In December,, Newark Tech gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Quarter 1 Principal and Honor Roll students, recognizing their hard work, dedication, and academic excellence. These remarkable scholars have set a shining example for their peers, demonstrating that determination and focus lead to success. Surrounded by proud families, supportive teachers, and cheering classmates, the honorees were applauded for their perseverance and commitment to learning. This celebration not only highlighted their accomplishments but also reinforced the core values of Newark Tech. Congratulations to all our honorees; you inspire us to aim higher every day!

Please join us in congratulations our Newark Tech Speech and Debate team for their outstanding performance at the Newark Academy Policy Debate tournament held at Newark Vocational High School last week. Under the exceptional leadership of Mr. Rock, they have demonstrated remarkable skill and dedication, and we couldn’t be prouder of your accomplishments!

Seniors at Newark Tech have a wealth of valuable skills to offer as mentors to freshmen, guiding them through their high school journey with confidence and support. With the help of Social Worker Ms. Mulero, seniors teach freshmen essential skills such as time management, organization, study strategies, and navigating the social and emotional challenges of high school. They also model positive behaviors like effective communication, conflict resolution, and self-advocacy, helping freshmen build the resilience and confidence needed to succeed academically and personally. The mentorship program fosters strong relationships, creating a supportive and inclusive community where both seniors and freshmen thrive through shared experiences and guidance.

Please join us in congratulating the Mighty Newark Tech Terriers on winning the Inaugural Essex County Schools of Technology Holiday Tournament in an EPIC battle against Payne Tech 57 - 56 in front of 650 spectators in the Terrier Dome! 🏆✨

The Terriers won by playing solid defense, and they were led by Senior Captain Malcolm Bragg, who finished with 32 pts, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Senior forward Jalen Baker chipped in with a strong 16 pts and 9 rebounds.

Big shout out to all the parents, alumni, teachers, students, and Cheerleaders who support us. Newark Tech will hold the trophy in the main lobby until next year’s tournament.

We are thrilled to share that our Newark Tech Lady Terriers made it to the finals of the Essex County Schools of Technology Winter Basketball Tournament! They have shown tremendous growth and resilience throughout the season. Let us continue to encourage and support our girls' basketball team under the dedicated leadership of Coach Derrick Johnson and Coach Aldo Nolasco. Your efforts and teamwork truly make a difference!

Let’s keep cheering on our Lady Terriers as they continue to strive for excellence both on and off the court!

This season, the Newark Tech Track Team have achieved outstanding success. Junior Andrew Scott delivered an impressive performance at the Ridgewood Winter Games, earning medals in the 55-meter high hurdles, 55-meter dash, and 200-meter dash, going 3-for-3. Senior Princewill Aka also excelled, medaling in the Boys Varsity 55-meter high hurdles while setting a personal best. Sophomore Saniya Davis earned two bronze medals in the 55 and 200-meter dashes at the same event. Additionally, Junior Oluwakorede Oladoyinbo made a triumphant return after a spring injury, winning the Boys 55-meter dash at the Tom Zaccone Invitational in early December. These achievements showcased the team's exceptional talent and determination.

The Newark Tech Bowling Team has had an outstanding season in December 2024, showcasing remarkable skill and determination throughout their competitions. The team’s strong performances, both individually and collectively, highlight their growth and teamwork. With consistent improvement in their scores and strategy, the bowlers demonstrate exceptional focus and sportsmanship. Each player contributes to the team’s success, making it a memorable and successful season. As they continue to build on their achievements, the Newark Tech Bowling Team is poised for even greater success in the coming months.

It is important for students and parents to know about the process for filling out the FAFSA (Free-Application for Federal Student Aid) because it is essential for accessing federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, work-study opportunities, and loans. Completing the FAFSA helps determine eligibility for need-based financial aid and can maximize the amount of funding available to reduce out-of-pocket costs or the need for loans. Many scholarships and work-study programs also require FAFSA completion, making it a crucial step for securing funding. Additionally, filing early increases the chances of receiving aid, especially for programs with limited funding or first-come, first-served policies, making FAFSA a key part of the college planning process.

Attached are some resources to help with the FAFSA application process....

Please join us in congratulating Newark Teck's Teachers of the Month for December, Ms. Karen Santucci, and Dr. Lynn Love-Kelly, outstanding ELA teachers.

Ms. Santucci and Dr. Love-Kelly exemplify dedication, creativity, and excellence in every aspect of their work. These educators have created dynamic and welcoming classrooms where students not only feel valued but are inspired to reach their highest potential. With their innovative teaching methods, they engage students in meaningful learning experiences that foster both academic achievement and personal growth. The exceptional rapport they build with students has paved the way for remarkable results, as evidenced by the impressive NJSLA and NJPGA scores, as well as high SAT performances. Through their unwavering commitment to excellence, Ms. Santucci and Dr. Love-Kelly are not only preparing their students for college but also shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Their passion and hard work make a lasting impact on every student they teach, creating a legacy of success that extends far beyond the classroom.

On behalf of The Newark Tech Administration team, the Faculty, and Scholars we pause to simply say THANK YOU!

We are thrilled to announce that Edwin Finnis, the Auto Tech instructor, has been named the Governor’s Educator of the Year for 2024-2025. This prestigious recognition reflects his unwavering dedication to education, his exceptional commitment to his students, and the profound impact he has made in our community. We celebrate his remarkable achievements and the inspiration he continues to provide to all those around him.

Mr. Edwin Finnis started working in an auto shop part-time in high school at 17 and took a full-time position upon graduation. He worked for 15 years with the same employer and then opened his own service station repair shop which he ran for 18 years. He was previously employed in the automotive industry for over 35 years before becoming a teacher. He holds an ASE Master Tech certification, and he is currently certified in six areas of auto repair. He continues to update his automotive skills as new technology emerges.

Mr. Finnis began teaching at Newark Tech in 2013 as an alternate route teacher and he is currently in his 12th year of teaching. He has a passion for educating young people about the opportunities in the automotive field after high school and setting goals to reach their full potential wherever they choose. He loves working with high-age students, their enthusiasm and excitement about life, in general, is very rewarding. He has also coached soccer for Newark Tech and this is his ninth year coaching. He has been involved in youth soccer for eight years before becoming a teacher.

Mr. Finnis was the Club Advisor for Skills USA for several years, and many teachers appreciate him and his students for assisting with the maintenance of school staff cars. The students handle tasks such as oil changes, brake replacements, and other mechanical repairs. They do all this work at minimal cost, typically only charging for the materials required, or at no cost if no materials are needed.

We are beyond excited to announce that Ms. Joralis Nivar, Newark Tech's Social Worker has been named the Educational Service Professional of the Year for 2024-2025! This well-deserved recognition honors her outstanding contributions, tireless dedication, and the incredible impact she has made in supporting our students and school community. We celebrate her passion, hard work, and commitment to excellence, and we couldn't be more proud of her achievement!

Ms. Joralis Nivar is incredibly proud to be the first in her family to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree. According to a report by Excelencia in Education, only 8% of Latinas achieve a master's degree, making her part of a distinguished group. Her educational journey has equipped her to work as a social worker, where she is dedicated to helping children reach their full potential. Additionally, she supports her father, who emigrated from the Dominican Republic and now serves as the district leader for Newark's West Ward. Assisting him with community relations is a true privilege, as they work together to make a positive impact on the community.

Ms. Nivar deserves to be recognized for her professionalism and dedication to all the students at Newark Tech. She is a profound advocate for mental health awareness and provides students with hours of counseling. She is in constant communication with students and teachers, seeking and providing assistance and support to meet each student's needs. In addition, she is involved in the Essex Country Schools of Technology community. Ms. Nivar was the Volleyball Coach at West Caldwell Tech and participates in and contributes to events and committees at Newark Tech. She is enthusiastic and enjoys doing what she does, and her dedication is reflected in the rapport she has built with students and educators at Newark Tech.

Parents and Guardians,

Thank you so much for attending our November Quarter I Parent Meeting! Your participation and support are truly appreciated, and it was wonderful to see so many of you engaged in your child's education.

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming January Quarter II Parent Meeting:

Grades 9 & 10: January 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM

Grades 11 & 12: January 15, 2025, at 6:00 PM

Zoom Link: https://essextech-org.zoom.us/j/86722208052

Meeting ID: 867 2220 8052

These meetings will provide valuable information and opportunities to connect with our families, and we look forward to seeing you there!

Thank you again for your continued involvement in our school community. We appreciate your partnership in ensuring the success of our students.

• January 1 - New Year's Day
• January 8 - Faculty Meeting
• January 10 - Debate Field Trip: Invitational
• January 11 - Robotics Club & Debate Field Trip: Mr. Rock (Hunterdon Central)
• January 14 - 9th and 10th Grade Parent Quarterly Meeting @6:00 pm
• Meeting ID: 867 2220 8052
• Zoom Link: https://essextech-org.zoom.us/j/86722208052
• January 15 - 11th and 12th Grade Parent Quarterly Meeting @6:00 pm
• Meeting ID: 867 2220 8052
• Zoom Link: https://essextech-org.zoom.us/j/86722208052
• January 15 - ECST Interviews Begin
• January 17 - 1/2 Day-School Based Staff PD & Debate Field Trip: Mr. Rock
• January 18 - Field Trip HOSA & Debate Field Trip: Mr. Rock
• January 19 - Debate Field Trip: Mr. Rock
• January 20 - No School -Martin Luther King Day- Debate Field Trip: Mr. Rock
• January 22 - Departmental Meeting & All Male Empowerment Assembly
• January 24 - Field Trip: TEAL 11th & 12th Spanish
• January 25 - ECST Diagnostic
• January 29 - Grades Dues & All Female Empowerment Assembly

Our Newark Tech Clubs are important for students as they provides a platform for personal growth, skill development, and community engagement. They offer students opportunities to develop leadership skills, collaborate with peers, and participate in extracurricular activities that enhance their academic experience. Our Clubs often focus on areas like technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, allowing students to explore their interests, build practical skills, and prepare for future careers. Additionally, they foster a sense of belonging and school pride, helping students become more involved in their school community. Through participation, students can also gain exposure to networking opportunities, mentorship, and initiatives that enrich their overall educational journey.

Please see our 2024-2025 Newark Tech Club Flyer below:

We are excited to invite all students to participate in our Male Empowerment and Female Empowerment Saturday sessions! These sessions are designed to provide a supportive and inspiring environment where students can explore important topics, develop leadership skills, and connect with peers.

The Male Empowerment Saturday Sessions will focus on fostering confidence, resilience, and positive relationships among young men. Through discussions and mentorship, students will have the opportunity to explore what it means to be a leader and a positive role model in your community.

Similarly, the Female Empowerment Saturday Sessions aim to uplift and inspire young women by addressing issues related to self-worth, confidence, and personal growth. These sessions will encourage students to embrace their strengths, cultivate your passions, and build a supportive network with your peers.

We look forward to these empowering sessions! Together, let’s work toward building a community that uplifts and supports every student.

Website: www.essextech.org
Location: 91 West Market Street, Newark NJ 07103
Phone: 973-412-2204

Email: jwilliams@essextech.org
Phone: 973-412-2270

Instagram: @PRINCIPAL.WILLIAMS

LinkedIn: @Jenabu Williams
Twitter: @WILLIAMS_PRINC

Email: sjannah@essextech.org
Phone: 973-412-2231

Instagram: @VP.JANNAH
LinkedIn: @Sheyla Jannah