Newark parents can now enroll their children at neighborhood schools

Starting Monday, Newark families can visit any neighborhood school to enroll their children in schools for the fall, according to information posted on the Newark Board of Education’s website.

Newark schools will now serve as “family support centers” capable of enrolling students in district schools and charter schools that participate in the citywide enrollment system, called Newark Enrolls, the district said.

The update comes after Newark Public Schools announced plans to revamp the city’s online enrollment system to make it easier to use. The new system also will allow families to register in schools via their phones.

The online enrollment system has been down for more than a month while the district transitions to the new system — causing frustration among some parents and school employees. During that time, many families have been visiting the downtown Family Support Center to get enrollment assistance.

As schools now take on the role providing enrollment support, the district will close the downtown enrollment center on Sept. 20, according to the district website. At that point, families will need to visit any district school to get help with enrolling in or transferring schools.

Families should bring their children’s birth certificate or passport, a proof of address, and parent ID, according to the district. Schools can provide assistance from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment.