Newark Educator Selected For National Urban Executive Leadership Institute

Press release from the Newark Board of Education:

NEWARK, N.J. – Newark Public Schools is proud to announce that Dr. José Fuentes, School Business Administrator, has been selected to join the fourth cohort of the Michael Casserly Urban Executive Leadership Institute for Superintendents, an initiative of the Council of the Great City Schools (CGCS).

Dr. Fuentes is among just 11 senior education leaders nationwide chosen for this prestigious development experience, designed to prepare current and aspiring superintendents with the knowledge, insight, and national peer network needed to successfully lead large urban school districts.

Launched in 2023, the Casserly Institute immerses participants in months of executive learning experiences, with program sessions scheduled throughout the school year. Cohort members will engage with current and former superintendents and national experts while studying the most pressing challenges facing urban school systems.

“Dr. Fuentes is an exceptional leader whose strategic vision, financial expertise, and deep commitment to our students make him an invaluable member of our team,” said Superintendent León. “His selection to this national cohort reflects not only his personal excellence, but also the district’s growing recognition as a leader in urban public education.”

The Institute curriculum includes focus areas such as:

• Board Relations
• Academic Performance
• Operations and Finance
• Collective Bargaining & Labor Relations
• Media Relations
• Strategic Communications

Participants will also have opportunities to connect with and shadow current superintendents from CGCS member districts, building mentorship and professional relationships that enhance readiness for district leadership.

“We are incredibly proud that Dr. Fuentes will represent Newark Public Schools in this respected program,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “His dedication to fiscal responsibility and his passion for serving Newark’s children are evident in everything he does. This opportunity will equip him with even more tools to support our district’s continued growth and success.”

“We are honored to welcome the newest cohort of the Michael Casserly Urban Executive Leadership Institute for Superintendents,” said Council Executive Director Ray Hart. “This will be a transformational experience that will equip them with the critical skills, training, and supportive network needed to help them succeed in today’s complex urban education environment.”

“Participants in the program will hear from experienced superintendents who will share their valuable insights gained from managing some of the largest urban school districts in the nation—an experience they cannot find anywhere else,” added Superintendent-in-Residence Dr. Michael Hinojosa, who oversees the program.

Since launching, the Institute has graduated 38 participants, four of whom have gone on to become superintendents in CGCS member districts.

Dr. Fuentes joins peers from districts including Durham Public Schools; the School District of Philadelphia; Dallas ISD; Los Angeles Unified; and Memphis-Shelby County Schools.

The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676. The District currently enrolls over 40,000 students in 65 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.

This press release was produced by the Newark Board of Education. The views expressed here are the author’s own.