2021 APRIL
NEWARK SCHOOL OF FASHIO & DESIGN
Written by Caroline Kopas
Newark, New Jersey. Lying just west of the Big Apple, this city has a population of just over 280,000 as per the 2019 census, making it the largest city in the state. Its size is not the only thing it boasts, however. According to the Uken Report, it is also The United States’ third neediest city. With a poverty rate approaching thirty percent, it is safe to say Newark residents are generally underprivileged, but in recent years, a push has been made to support Newark Residents and provide more opportunities that can lead to a better standard of living.
As of recent statistics, the city has a high school dropout rate of twenty-five percent, a shocking and saddening number, so it is not surprising that there have been efforts to increase the quality of education. One of the ways this has been playing out is the opening of magnet and specialized high schools. These schools are public, but need applications in order to get in. These include the Newark School of Global Studies, the Newark School of Data Science and Information Technology, Science Park High School, Arts High School, Technology High School, American History High School, and the newest addition and object of this article, Newark School of Fashion and Design.
These high schools have proven to provide more opportunities to their students; international superstar Michael B. Jordan (Black Panther) even attended Arts High School! And opportunity is key in a city such as Newark.
Newark’s population is approximately half African-descent and thirty-six percent Latin descent, both racial minorities usually systematically oppressed in America. Many of these minorities do not have access to the same privileges as majorities do, so coupled with the poverty and dropout rates, it becomes evident that breaking free is not a particularly easy thing to do.
So that’s why schools such as the Newark School of Fashion and Design are so crucial. They cultivate the natural talent and goals of Newark’s population that allow growth without a tuition fee.
The Newark School of Fashion and Design’s mission statement is “to educate and inspire students to explore their academic and creative potential through the lens of fashion and design. [The school] leverages the design process across the curriculum and affords students space to imagine, problem solve, and collaborate in preparation for future success” and “The School of Fashion and Design envisions a dynamic community where students can manifest their creative style, pioneer new design innovations, and influence the world of fashion.”
To follow further about the school, you are welcome to watch their video:
Newark School of Fashion & Design on Vimeo