Newark Academy

Newark Academy has been helping its students achieve academic excellence and embody intellectual curiosity since 1774. It’s one of the oldest independent day schools in the country, located on a 68-acre campus in Livingston. The school engages sixth through twelfth graders in a range of transformational learning experiences. NA is fulfilling its mission by reimagining rigor and instilling in students a genuine curiosity about the world around them so they can become accomplished scholars with a passion for learning.

A SCHOOL WITH A GLOBAL VIEW

Newark Academy is the first school in New Jersey to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) course of study and diploma program. The coursework offered through the IB program is the gold standard in fostering global perspectives and promoting diverse learning experiences.

“Newark Academy is a global school,” says Director of Admission and Enrollment Management Keith Fischer. “In addition to our students coming from more than 90 local communities, we have a number of international students as well.” Another example of NA’s commitment to global education is its Immersion Experiences. Every Upper School student participates in a cultural/linguistic, cultural/service or wilderness/outdoor immersive experience, fostering a deeper understanding of other cultures as well as a sense of self-exploration. NA continues to create experiences that broaden students’ horizons.

LEARNING BY DOING

Rather than focus on memorization of facts and figures, NA students learn how to think critically, consider complex issues and put thought into action. This emphasis on experiential learning takes center stage during June Term, a two-week period when Upper School students take a deep dive into subjects ranging from rocketry and app development to language construction. In the Middle School, hands-on learning occurs through classroom projects like stock market investing, building roller coasters, debate, play writing and film production. Students complete the year with meaningful and engaging Capstone Experiences that promote communication, teamwork and self-reflection.

With more than 60 clubs and organizations available to students, they learn and develop into strong leaders outside of the classroom as well. From the Philosophy Club to the Mock Trial Team, to student government to the Minuteman (the school newspaper), to on-stage productions and award-winning musical groups and classes, students have the opportunity to find their passions and continue their growth outside of the classroom. NA’s commitment to athletic excellence across the school’s 25 sports ensures that students receive an outstanding student-athlete experience. This is accomplished through programs that are competitive, highly organized, grounded in solid fundamentals, character oriented and emotionally rewarding. Being a member of a team is an experience that Newark Academy feels will be enriching for all students. Student opinions are also valued in decision-making processes at NA. Students take on leadership roles on the Honor Council, the Equity & Inclusion Team, and the Curriculum Committee, to name a few. The Student Voice proposal process has resulted in new policies and changes at the school.

INCLUSIVITY AND CONNECTIONS

Newark Academy strives to be a welcoming community, where everyone’s known and feels a genuine sense of belonging. That sense of belonging begins with each of our students bringing their own unique identity to NA. Fifty-eight percent of students identify as people of color and 18 percent of students identify as being part of one or more typically under-represented minority groups. “We are diverse by design,” says Fischer. “We know that being able to build relationships and share ideas with others is one of the essential abilities needed for success.”

Newark Academy students also have diverse interests. A high-performing athlete can take part in the winter musical and a student who loves computer programming can earn a spot in the school’s nationally recognized jazz band. Fischer notes “Diversity of all kinds benefits the individuals and enriches our entire community.”

NA students and alums are connected by a unique educational experience. There are nearly 5,000 alumni within the NA community who are invited to several events throughout the year to stay connected with the school. From visits to the NA campus and fun-filled events in cities around the United States, to innovative, virtual opportunities for career and personal development, NA offers something for alums at every life stage.