Award recipients show off their certificates with Councilman Amador. (Photo Cole Media Inc)
   
June 25, 2009 (Newark) – Earlier this week, Newark Councilman Augusto Amador continued his tradition of presenting the “Best of the Best” Award to nearly 300 students from public and private schools in the East Ward. The annual event was held at the Mediterranean Manor in the Ironbound, and attended by both the award recipients and their parents and teachers.

This is the 11th consecutive year that Councilman Amador has organized this event to reward the academic progress of East Ward students. The 270 students who received the honors are between 5 and 18 years old and were selected for the honor by their principals and teachers based on their academic achievements.

“This is one of the highlights for me each year,” said Councilman Amador. “To be able to not only recognize the outstanding achievements of these students, but to also see the pride and happiness on their faces as they receive their awards is so gratifying to me. I always look forward to this event with great pride and admiration for the students and their families,” he added.

The Ironbound District is home to some of the oldest schools in Newark. Thanks to advocacy from Councilman Amador and leaders in education, there are current plans for building new, or refurbishing old elementary schools. A new East Side High School will be built on the old Ballantine brewery site. “The Ironbound District has some of the oldest schools in Newark , with the oldest having been built in 1841,” said Amador. “In spite of the challenges, these students have committed to their education, and are performing at the same level as students in new, modern buildings. They deserve to be congratulated,” he said.

Contact: Kim Prime, Cole Media Inc.
973-609-2446 or kprime@colemediainc.com