Newark Junior High School

6201 Lafayette Avenue

School District

Newark Unified
Grade

6-8
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:20
Type

public

School Map for Newark Unified School District

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on October 12, 2021

good school for the bay area and newark on top baby
Submitted by other on April 28, 2021

The school is alright. I liked it and had a really good time. I'd like to give a shoutout to my 7th grade teachers especially my social studies teacher and band director. I didn't have a hard time fitting in and finding classmates I liked and ultimately becoming best friends with in the future. The school can have some tough moments like sometimes having a few fights a school year but best thing I have to say really is that you just have to go in with low expectations because suddenly after that first day you can probably still have low expectations for the rest of the school year or better than that, possibly have high expectations because of that 1st day. What I like about this school is that some teachers play it cool and don't pass out homework everyday which is always a positive when it comes to student's mental health. The teachers taught me really well and I understood most of the curriculum. This was my experience with this school and I'm pretty sure everyone elses experience was different from mine but I guess it depends who you're around mostly.
Submitted by parent on December 06, 2017

Our experience at the school has been outstanding. Unfortunately, I see and hear about so many kids not performing well in academics, eating poorly, getting out of shape, and playing on their phones all the time. There have been a few minor fights and one consumption of alcohol or possession of marijuana incident that I heard about. The leadership dealt with these issues well. The school is good, the teachers are great, leadership is fine, and the majority of the kids are good. The problem from my perspective is many of the parents do not push their kids in academics or sports. A significant portion of the parents are struggling with finances (ironically, most of the kids have phones, but are considered economically disadvantaged so it may be poor financial decision making that contribute to the financial problems) or have serious problems with their family situation. The resources are available: Algebra in the 7h grade, advanced ELA, computer programming, STEM, Rocketry, Cross Country, Track and Field, and many great opportunities that students do not take advantage of because the parents haven’t pushed their kids to stay active and involved. Unfortunately, it’s not politically correct to tell the parents that they are a significant part of the problem. This is why the school rating floats between a 6-7. The scores are more of a reflection of the families in our community, which is why so many have moved to Fremont, Dublin, San Ramon, and Pleasanton. I would rate the school, faculty and staff as very good to great.
Submitted by teacher on March 23, 2017

I agree, this school is one of the best school in the Bay Area. Newark Junior High school is also student centered, and welcomes all students regardless of their background . Furthermore, students have great teachers and staff to support them in their learning and transition from Jr. High to High School.
Submitted by other on March 19, 2016

This school is one of the best in Northern California so far as my family is concerned. Kids get to learn in decent sized classes and they are taught by experienced teachers. My kids were so happy that they say they'd want their own kids to attend NJHS!
Submitted by teacher on January 10, 2015

I am proud of our school and our teachers. I have never seen a staff that takes more pride in their lessons. We go above and beyond to be the best. I am honored to be a NJHS.
Submitted by parent on February 01, 2014

The leadership, teachers and administrative staff are great! My child is having an excellent experience and is doing well.
Submitted by parent on November 08, 2013

I have a long commute to work, but we will not move because we are so pleased with the quality of education at Newark Jr. HS and Schilling Elementary. Our kids LOVE school (how often do you hear that?). Classroom size is reasonable and kids get individual attention. Most of our neighbors are either from the technology or biotech industries, and you see that the kids don't fall far from the tree. The kids are bright! The teachers help each child to determine his or her path. Not all kids choose college, but a lot do! This school teaches great values and respect.
Submitted by other on January 23, 2013

I know the teachers and staff here work really hard for the student. Great school!
Submitted by parent on September 26, 2012

My child is doing fair in school. getting decent grades and stays out of trouble. Not nuts about the new principal. He is snooty, and always figiting with his cell phone. He isn't interested in getting to know his students unless they are the attractive. well-liked females. I have a son.