Get your diploma. Get job ready: LEAD charter school accepts applications for new school year

Newark, New Jersey – LEAD Charter School is currently accepting applications for the upcoming 2022-2023 school year. LEAD is the first alternative public charter high school in New Jersey and partners with YouthBuild Newark, another initiative of Newark Opportunity Youth Network (NOYN), to deliver a career-readiness infused educational program that is specifically designed to look and feel radically different from a traditional classroom.

The school offers students the opportunity to pursue a high school diploma while earning an industry-recognized credential in one of the three pathways: construction, allied health and technology. Within the various pathways, students can gain hands-on training in plumbing, carpentry, information technology, home health aide, and nursing assistant training. 

“It’s rare that you can find a school that really cares deeply about their students,” said Shenell Bagot, a graduate of LEAD’s 2020 class. “That’s why I’ll recommend anybody struggling or trying to find themselves or trying to get back into high school, I’d recommend this school in a heartbeat."

The school and affiliated YouthBuild program, which has been operating in Newark since 2003, has empowered countless young people to transform themselves, their families, and their communities. Recently, NOYN began highlighting the experiences of its students and alumni through a blog series called Stories of Transformation. These stories prove that success is possible for everyone - no matter your background.

“Shenell is a prime example of what’s possible when a young person’s willingness to work hard is met with opportunities for them to succeed,” said Robert Clark, YouthBuild Newark founder and CEO of NOYN. “Whether it’s college, trade school, armed services, or the workforce, preparing young people like Shenell for post-secondary pathways is the heart of LEAD and YouthBuild.”

Students ages 16-21 can apply by visiting www.leadcharterschool.org and those over the age of 21 can visit www.youthbuildnewark.org to apply. YouthBuild Newark also serves as a New Jersey Department of Education-approved HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) testing center. Anyone interested in taking a HiSET exam can contact YouthBuild Newark directly to schedule.