09/19/2026
Last night was Newark Homecoming, and as I stood along Granville Street waiting for the bands to march toward the stadium, I found myself unexpectedly emotional.
I could hear the music coming before I could see the students. Families lined the street. People cheered. Kids from across our schools marched together, seniors were celebrated, and students involved in everything from music to athletics to other activities had a chance to feel part of something bigger than themselves.
It was one of those moments that reminded me how much our schools and our city are connected.
Strong communities give kids places to belong. They give them opportunities to learn, perform, compete, create, lead and discover what they love. And strong schools help build families who feel connected to the place they call home.
My daughter is still in middle school and had the opportunity to march with the high school band last night. Years ago, after our family moved to Newark, I once asked her if she would ever want to move back to the community where we had lived before.
Her answer was simple: “No, Mom. We’re Wildcats.”
Standing on Granville Street last night, surrounded by families cheering on our kids, I understood that feeling more deeply.
I’m proud to serve this community, proud of the families who call Newark home, and grateful for the many teachers, coaches, directors, volunteers, parents and neighbors who create these experiences for our kids. Sometimes a Friday night football game is about a whole lot more than football.
Go Cats!! 🐾
