Newark Academy

The school is guided by the mission to "contribute to the world individuals instilled with a passion for learning, a standard of excellence and a generosity of spirit." It fosters a community built on five commitments: promoting inclusivity, choosing kindness, requiring responsibility, fostering trust, and practicing a growth mindset. The educational approach is student-centered, skills-focused, and committed to developing globally-minded individuals.

The school offers a comprehensive curriculum for grades 6-12, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, for which it was the first school in New Jersey to offer. Academic offerings are supported by experiential learning opportunities such as the June Term and Capstone Experiences, which replace spring exams with hands-on discovery. Students also participate in off-campus study programs, STEM initiatives, and AI-integrated learning. The school also operates a summer program with over 125 courses and camps for students from Kindergarten through grade 12.

Newark Academy graduates are prepared for success in college and beyond, characterized as critical thinkers who are intellectually curious, culturally competent, and globally-minded. The school emphasizes the "Six C’s"—critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, character development, and cultural competency—to prepare students for their futures. Alumni include Pulitzer Prize winners, mayors, and leaders in various professional fields.

The school provides a personalized support network through small class sizes, Harkness-style discussions, and weekly advisor group gatherings. Dedicated learning specialists and counselors are available to support students' academic and personal well-being. Additionally, the school offers peer tutoring and maintains a focus on student-centered, skills-based learning.

Newark Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities. The school meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for families, with nearly 20% of the student body receiving aid. Prospective families must complete a financial aid application through Clarity by January 12, 2026, while returning families must apply by November 1, 2025.

The school operates on a traditional academic calendar. The summer program offers sessions from late June through July, including a full session (June 22–July 31) and two shorter sessions (Session A: June 22–July 10; Session B: July 13–July 31).

Located on a 68-acre campus in Livingston, New Jersey, the school features extensive indoor and outdoor facilities. Key spaces include the Elizabeth B. McGraw Arts Center, which houses studios for ceramics, drawing, and photography, as well as the Lautenberg “Black Box” Theater and the David Teiger ’47 Gallery. Athletic facilities include the Simon Family Field House with a six-lane pool and fitness center, the William G. Wrightson Memorial Gymnasium, the Cetrulo Family Fencing Center, and multiple outdoor fields including Coursen Field and Kacur Field. The campus also includes the Wilf Middle School wing, the Richard C. Hawkes Memorial Library, and the Carol Heaney Nature Trail.

Students participate in a wide array of clubs and activities, including the student-run newspaper, The Minute Man, and the award-winning Chameleon Jazz Band. The school also offers competitive athletics, including football, soccer, basketball, lacrosse, tennis, fencing, swimming, and track and field. Additionally, students engage in community service and various arts programs, such as choral and instrumental ensembles.