LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ โ Five students from across the district were honored at the Oct. 16, 2025, Board of Education meeting for achieving perfect scores on the Spring 2025 New Jersey Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA) in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics.
Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins led the recognition during her Superintendentโs Report, applauding the students for their exceptional academic accomplishments and presenting each with a certificate in a joyful, community-centered celebration. โThese scores represent more than just content masteryโthey reflect focus, perseverance, and the kind of excellence we strive to nurture in every Linden student,โ Dr. Perkins said.
NJSLA Perfect Score Honorees
Emily Figueiredo, who earned a perfect score in Mathematics while in 3rd grade at School No. 2. She is now a 4th grader.
Adam Sanabria, who earned a perfect score in English Language Arts while in 3rd grade at School No. 9. He is now a 4th grader.
Aman Adebiaye, who earned a perfect score in Mathematics while in 5th grade at School No. 4. He is now in 6th grade.
Benjamin Lorys, who earned a perfect score in English Language Arts while in 7th grade at McManus Middle School. He is now in 8th grade.
Emilia Avila, who earned a perfect score in English Language Arts while in 9th grade at Linden High School. She is now a 10th grader.
More Than a Score: A Districtโs Vision in Action
The recognition segment of the board exuded warmth, pride, and admiration, not just for academic achievement, but for the character and determination that fueled it. As each student stepped forward, principals highlighted not only their academic talent, but their perseverance, leadership, and kindness.
Superintendent Perkins framed the recognition as part of Lindenโs broader mission to cultivate student leaders who ROARโstudents who are Resilient, Opportunity-seeking, Achieving, and Relationship-building. โThis is not the finish line,โ she told them. โThis is a call to leadership. Youโve shown us what is possibleโand now, we want you to help others believe they can too.โ
A Mosaic of Linden Pride
The event painted a vivid mosaic of Linden prideโstudents, families, educators, and administrators united around the joy of learning and achievement. Cameras flashed, applause echoed, and smiles lit up the School No. 1 auditorium as the district honored what is possible when vision meets effort and support.