NCLC Leadership Transition

by | Apr 23, 2020 | News1

 

Dear Partner:

After nearly four years at the helm of NCLC, I write to announce that my time with the Collaborative will be coming to an end as I transition to a new chapter. Effective June 1, 2020, I will assume the role of Executive Director of the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership at Seton Hall University. It has been a privilege to work with so many in strengthening Newark’s college-going culture. In just a few short years, our extensive partnerships have led to several significant milestones:

  • January 2017 – Launch of the college pathway programs with signature funding from the Ford and Kresge Foundations. These initial programs were consolidated to form NCLC’s College Pathway Initiative, a multi-year developmental pathway to assist high school students in the transition to college.
  • August 2017 – Establishment of a partnership with the Rutgers University-Newark School of Public Affairs and Administration (SPAA) to create a citywide data project assessing post-secondary trends of Newark high school graduates.
  • November 2017 – Recognition of NCLC’s work by the NJ Secretary of Higher Education with the “Equity Trailblazer Award.”
  • June 2018 – Launch of the Secrets to College Admissions series, in partnership with the Newark Public Library. The series provides college knowledge and financial aid resources to residents throughout Newark, utilizing local library branches in every ward of the city.
  • July 2018 – Release of Post-Secondary Outcomes of Newark High School Graduates, the first comprehensive analysis of college-going patterns for high school graduates from district, charter, county, and parochial school sectors.
  • January 2019 – Roll out of the first citywide dual enrollment initiative, allowing Newark high school students from district, charter, and parochial schools to gain early exposure to the collegiate experience by earning college credit while still pursuing their high school diplomas at no cost to their families.
  • October 2019 – Launch of the first Newark FAFSA Challenge, in partnership with Mayor Baraka, NBOE Superintendent Leon, Essex County Schools of Technology Superintendent Pedersen, the United Way of Greater Newark, and the Newark Public Library.
  • January 2020 – second citywide dual enrollment initiative for Newark high schoolers.

Together, we have laid a crucial foundation in raising the expectation that every Newark child should have the preparation and resources to succeed at the college level.  I have no doubt that the great work of NCLC will continue for many years to come, thanks to the hard work and dedication of all of you.

All the best,

 

Reginald Lewis
Executive Director
Newark City of Learning Collaborative
Assistant Professor of Professional Practice

Continuing to Build Newark’s College-Going Culture

by | Apr 3, 2020 | News1

Dear NCLC Supporters,

Many things have changed in recent weeks as we all adjust to a new normal. Despite the challenges that have come with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, we also have an amazing opportunity to innovate. We want to assure you that NCLC remains unwavering in our commitment to Newark students. Now, more than ever, our students need our support and we are working diligently each day to find creative solutions that ensure the continuity of the critical work of building Newark’s college-going culture.

Newark FAFSA Challenge

The Newark FAFSA Challenge is a citywide effort to help more Newark high school seniors complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). While a huge part of the FAFSA Challenge previously included in-person completion assistance for students and parents, NCLC is now making virtual FAFSA assistance resources available. 

  • Coming soon! Make an appointment for a personal FAFSA and NJ Alternative Application assistance session via phone or video conference. Additional details to be announced.

NCLC Campus Visits

NCLC recently launched a social media campaign, titled “NCLC Campus Visits,” to give virtual campus tours of our partner institutions. Campus tours are such an important part of the college planning process. Unfortunately, our students cannot participate in in-person tours at least through May. Our goal is to give students the opportunity to not only visually see a campus, but also to learn more about what makes the school unique, just like they would during an in-person campus tour. Check out our first campus visit to Seton Hall University on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/B-PX4PZlr86/ 

 

Newark Goes to College!

In partnership with the Newark Public Library, NCLC provides a series of year-round college and career readiness activities, with workshops on topics like personal statement writing and college options for immigrant students. We’re working to find the best solution to continue these workshops virtually. Stay tuned for dates and additional details. 

College Pathway Initiative
The College Pathway Initiative (CPI) supports Newark high school students in their transition to college. Students are currently being engaged virtually by program staff in college planning activities to ensure they remain on-track to graduation and college matriculation. 

Dual Enrollment

Newark high school students enrolled in college courses at Rutgers University-Newark through NCLC’s Dual Enrollment Initiative are continuing to take classes online. We are also providing additional supports to these students to ensure they remain engaged and finish the semester strong.

If you have any questions about NCLC activities, please feel free to contact us at nclc.info@newark.rutgers.edu. You can also stay connected to us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Wishing you all health, peace, and safety.

The NCLC Team