Newark launches police, fire career pathways for students
The program creates a structured pipeline, allowing students to take college-level courses while still in high school and work toward an associate degree as they prepare for careers in Newark’s police and fire departments.
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Students in Newark Public Schools could soon graduate with more than just a high school diploma.
City leaders, including Mayor Ras J. Baraka, announced a new public safety career pathway in partnership with Rutgers University–Newark—designed to connect students directly to careers in law enforcement and fire service.
The program creates a structured pipeline, allowing students to take college-level courses while still in high school and work toward an associate degree as they prepare for careers in Newark’s police and fire departments.
Officials say the initiative is also aimed at addressing a nationwide shortage in public safety personnel by building a local workforce from within the community.
“A dual degree right they can get a high school diploma and an associate’s degree in the city of Newark by taking court versus by they’re still in high school,” Baraka said.
The pathway will be offered through select high schools, including Barringer and Malcolm X Shabazz, giving students early exposure to public safety careers.
“In the creation of a pipeline from Barringer and Malcolm X Shabazz high schools, or after college to becoming Newark’s finest and Newark’s bravest,” said Schools Superintendent Roger León.
Students will have access to hands-on training, mentorship and coursework focused on both police and fire career tracks—ranging from physical fitness preparation to communication skills and emergency response basics.
Leaders say even for those who choose a different path, the program will provide valuable, transferable skills.
Students who attended the announcement say the opportunity opens doors to higher education and meaningful careers.
“It is giving people the opportunity to get ready for like a higher education beyond high school," said James, a student in the district. "Like, for example like the like the officer spaces like its giving people a chance to like to go into law enforcement, make actual change within their cities."
Another student said the program sparked their interest in law enforcement and plans to explore that path next year.
Over the course of the program, students are introduced to:
Police service culture, chain of command, and accountability
Physical fitness preparation for the Police Academy
Newark’s police precincts
The Newark Police Academy
CPR and AED use
Radio communication and incident command structure
Mentoring
Guest speakers
