Messages from the Superintendent
Dear Newark Unified Families,
Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year!
Every school year tells a story. This one begins with fresh energy, new faces, and a renewed
commitment to the students and families we serve. Whether you’re returning or just joining the
Newark Unified School District, we’re so glad you’re part of our next chapter together. We
hope your summer was filled with meaningful moments, and that you’re as eager as we are to
turn the page to this exciting year of growth, learning, and connection.
Opening a New Chapter
The first day of school begins Thursday, August 7, 2025. Our dedicated teachers, staff, and
administrators have spent the summer preparing for your arrival—refining curriculum,
deep-cleaning campuses, and designing spaces that will inspire curiosity, confidence, and
community. We are ready to welcome each student with care, and to nurture both their
academic success and social-emotional growth.
This year, our shared story will continue to focus on what matters most: equity, achievement,
well-being, and opportunity for all students. Together, we’ll write a narrative grounded in
excellence and guided by compassion.
We’re Stronger Together
The best stories are those written with many voices. At Newark Unified, we know that
students, families, teachers, and staff all play critical roles in our journey. Your support whether
at the kitchen table, at a PTA meeting, or cheering from the sidelines makes a difference every
day.
Please stay engaged by reading our newsletters, attending school events, and sharing your
perspective. Your voice adds richness to the story we’re listening to and writing together.
Welcoming New Leadership
This year brings new characters and new leadership to several of our campuses. Please join me
in welcoming the new principals at BGI, Lincoln, Schilling, and Newark Middle School. Each
brings a deep belief in our students and a passion for education.
They’re excited to support your children and build strong school communities because our
schools are not only places to learn, but places to belong. In many ways, they are the heart of
Newark’s story.
Wednesday, July 30: New District Office Lead and Site Administrator Meet and Greet
All staff and the community are invited to informally meet new district and site administrators
on Wednesday, July 30 from 4:00 - 5:30 PM at the District Office Board Room. Light
refreshments will be served.
Your Voice Matters: Community Committees
The Board of Education is launching new Community Committees this year to make sure our
district story reflects the needs and dreams of those it serves. We are currently accepting
applications for our Citizens’ Bond Advisory Committee, which will help oversee the
investments being made through Measure O.
As a former PTA mom and Student Council President, I understand firsthand how powerful
family involvement can be. I look forward to listening, learning, and sharing as we explore
important topics through these collaborative groups. Together, we’ll shape the next chapters
with thought and care.
Measure O: Investing in Our Future
Thanks to the support of Newark voters, Measure O is making it possible to reimagine our
schools for generations to come. From safety improvements to upgraded classrooms, these
investments support student learning and community pride.
The Board of Education has identified priorities for Phase 1 of the bond projects, and I’m
proud to share that the district recently received an upgrade to our credit rating from S&P. As
a result, we successfully sold the first $40 million in school bonds and we are securing
funding to begin this transformational work.
We will continue to share updates so that you can see the progress and promise unfolding at
each campus.
Facing Challenges with Clarity and Hope
Every story has its challenges—and this year, like others across California, we are facing fiscal
pressures due to rising costs and changes in state funding. We are committed to being
transparent, strategic, and student-centered in our decisions. This is a moment to write a story
of resilience, responsibility, and long-term stability for Newark Unified.
Moments That Remind Us Why: A Story of Perseverance and Purpose
This summer, I spoke with a high school student who returned to campus not just for extra
credits, but for a second chance. After facing personal challenges and falling behind, they
enrolled in our summer program determined to earn their diploma.
“I didn’t think I’d make it,” they told me. “But my teachers didn’t give up on me, and now I’m
graduating. I’m the first in my family to get a high school diploma.”
That moment captured what education is really about: opening doors, offering support, and
helping students believe in themselves again. For this student and many others summer school
wasn’t just about academics. It was about rewriting their story with hope and determination.
As we open this new chapter together, I encourage you to stay connected, stay hopeful, and
stay involved. Let’s make the 2025–2026 school year a powerful story and one of
collaboration, creativity, and community.
Welcome back to NUSD. Let’s get started!
With gratitude and excitement,
Tracey B. Vackar
Superintendent of Schools
Newark Unified School District
Welcome to the 24-25 School Year!
As Superintendent, my focus is to provide the best educational opportunities for our future leaders, citizens, and community members. Recognizing that opportunities, experiences, and long-term educational goals vary from student to student, we must continually adapt our educational practices to meet their diverse needs.
Newark Unified School District’s Mission Statement is "Working together to inspire and educate all students to achieve their full potential and be responsible, respectful, and productive citizens.” This resonates deeply with the familiar saying, "It Takes a Village to Raise a Child." This sentiment is vividly demonstrated within the NUSD Community. I see firsthand the dedication to the success of our schools. As evidence, many of our graduates have remained or have come back to Newark Unified, contributing to its vibrant culture and continued growth of our community.
We acknowledge that there will be challenges to overcome and that nobody is perfect. Our commitment is to strive for the best decisions, reflect continually on our practices, embrace critical feedback, celebrate the diversity within our community, and integrate innovation into our educational practices that focus on the best interest of our students and their future.
As we reflect on these values and the commitment of our staff to shape individual lives each day, we want to thank you and let you know we look forward to each year's new experiences and opportunities. As we excel, overcome, and lead with purpose, we continue to grow towards greatness.
I am dedicated to ensuring that our District embodies the values set by our Board of Trustees:
- Student Achievement
- Safe, Secure, and Healthy Learning Environments
- Parent and Community Engagement and Communication
- Fiscal Health
Together we will continue to build a brighter future for all students in our Newark community. It is truly an honor to serve as your Superintendent.
Warmest regards,
Tracey B. Vackar
Interim Superintendent