The NJ Spotlight Roundtable: Camden Schools and the Future of Urban Education in New Jersey

Camden public schools have found themselves at the center of New Jersey’s debate over how to improve the education offered in the state’s poorest cities. More than 20 of the schools are on New Jersey’s watch-list for “turnaround,” and Gov. Chris Christie this week called for a state takeover of the district.

Meanwhile, Camden is the first test case of the Urban Hope Act, which will bring a swath of new charter schools, most likely starting with the national KIPP network in partnership with the Cooper Foundation and its chairman, George Norcross.

The latest NJ Spotlight Roundtable: Camden Schools and the Future of Urban Education in New Jersey explores the challenges facing Camden’s schools, the range of possible solutions, and the ways these answers may map to struggling school districts across the state.

Camden Schools and the Future of Urban Education in New Jersey will bring together many of the key players helping to drive the transformation of Camden’s schools. As always, audience participation in this open-ended forum will be encouraged.

               Monday, April 1, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

               Rutgers Camden Campus Center

               Seating is limited

               Register for the event

Moderator: John Mooney, education writer and cofounder, NJ Spotlight

Panelists include:George Norcross III, chairman, Cooper Health SystemsPatricia Kenny, assistant superintendent, Camden schoolsPam Garwood, Priority Schools Initiative, NJEARyan Hill, founder and executive director, TEAM Charter SchoolsKaren Douglas-Collins, math leader, Pyne Poynt Middle School (Camden)Moneke Ragsdale, Camden community and parent advocate

* Free parking is available in Lot 11 (by waterfront). When entering, tell guard you’re attending this roundtable to receive your complimentary parking pass. Free shuttle buses will drop you off at the Camden Campus Center.

View Rutgers-Camden Campus Map