Newark’s Guaranteed Education Pilot Program celebrated its first anniversary, as they continue to provide debt-free college education to at-risk students. It’s made possible through a $1 million grant provided by the City of Newark and The Brick City Peace Collective, in partnership with Saint Elizabeth University.

“With fewer than 16 percent of Newarkers having a bachelor’s degree and the majority of Black and Brown students financing their education through debt, it’s critical that more opportunities are created for students to go to college without crippling burdens of student loans,” said Mayor Ras Baraka.

Students who have an incarcerated parent, have a parent who was recently released from incarceration within the past two years, have lost a parent or sibling to violence, are victims of violence or who are first generation college students are all eligible for the program. The program helps accelerate those choosing to study social work, psychology, education or nursing. Currently, the program is supporting 36 at-risk students. Some 40 students entered the program in the fall of 2022, showing an 86% retention rate.

“This program’s value cannot be measured in dollars. It transforms these students in real time, day by day, and changes the arc of their future. By continuing this commitment, we will close the wealth and education gap in Newark, and our city will enjoy a more productive and prosperous tomorrow,” said Baraka.