But it's not always been a standing ovation for Arts High. By the 1970s, tough times had hit Newark and the school felt it: budget cuts, dwindling resources, and even competition from other exciting arts programs popping up in places like Montclair. The future of Arts High could have turned into a tragedy, but Newark proved it would not give up on its artsy teens! In 1983, in a dazzling twist, local voters said “Bravo!” to a $62.6 million bond package. The school got an $8 million slice, which led to an 18-month makeover straight out of a Broadway set change. By 1996, Arts High was shining again-complete with science and drama labs and an auditorium restored to its original Art Deco glamour.
If you peered into that auditorium, you might catch a ghostly performance or two (don’t worry, they’re friendly ghosts-mostly jazz singers and tap dancers lingering from opening night). In fact, in 2007, this school celebrated its 75th birthday with a star-studded celebration. The audience sat spellbound as Savion Glover, the legendary tap dancer and choreographer behind “Happy Feet,” hit the stage with the thunderous beat of drums played by his own students. The energy was electric! There were art exhibits, fashion shows, and even an essay contest about how the school changed lives. One thing’s for sure-no one here ever had to worry about a boring yearbook.
Artists aren’t just made here; they’re launched here like fireworks. Newark Arts High boasts an incredible list of alumni: R&B’s Melba Moore, jazz legends like Andy Bey and Sarah Vaughan, acting stars like Michael B. Jordan and Mj Rodriguez, choreographers, designers, even politicians! You may be walking in the footsteps of future Oscar, Grammy, or Tony winners. By the way, if the spirit of creativity seems especially strong, that’s because, until 1997, this building was also the home of the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts-a hotbed of artistic ambition from students just out of high school.
But don’t think it’s all jazz hands and paintbrushes! The Arts High Jaguars prowl the courts and fields of the Super Essex Conference. From shooting hoops to winning state championships in girls’ and boys’ indoor relays, there’s plenty of school spirit. Sometimes the sound of a basketball bouncing or the crack of a bat blends seamlessly with the call of a trumpet or the shouts from drama class rehearsals.
Today, nearly 600 students walk these halls, guided by a dedicated staff-and yes, strict principal Regina Sharpe is on the lookout for untucked shirts and unsanctioned jazz solos in the hallway. In tough times or good, Arts High students have always had the courage to create and perform. Who knows? Maybe, with your creativity, you could be the next big name to join this extraordinary roll call! If you hear a faint melody on the breeze, it might just be the song of a thousand dreams waiting to be realized inside.
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