LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ -- Six members of the Linden High School Class of 2026 were recognized by the Linden Board of Education on June 18 for successfully completing the Kean Scholar Academy, a rigorous college-access and leadership program offered through a partnership between Linden Public Schools and Kean University.

The recognition marked a significant milestone for both institutions, as the students represent the first graduating cohort of Linden scholars to complete the four-year program after entering as eighth-graders when the partnership launched in 2021.

Superintendent Dr. Atiya Perkins highlighted the achievement during the board meeting, noting that the students successfully balanced their high school studies while participating in dual-credit coursework and enrichment opportunities through Kean University. The recognition comes just days before the students join their classmates at Linden High School's commencement ceremony on June 23.

Representing Kean University was Jason Lester, Special Assistant to the President and Executive Director of the Kean Scholar Academy, who joined district leaders in celebrating the students' accomplishments and the success of the partnership.

"This relationship that we have with our Linden Tigers — we call them Baby Cougars because that's where they need to go — has just been tremendous," Lester said. "The young people that you have here in Linden are very special."

A Four-Year Journey

The Kean Scholar Academy provides qualified high school students with opportunities to experience college long before graduation. Students receive guidance from university mentors, participate in academic and career counseling, engage in enrichment activities and workshops, and gain access to internship and career-development opportunities designed to support their future success.

Participants begin with a summer orientation on Kean University's campuses and continue attending workshops, counseling sessions, and academic programs throughout the school year while remaining enrolled in their respective high schools.

Each scholar follows an individualized academic pathway aligned with future college and career goals, helping students develop the academic skills, confidence, and experience needed to thrive in higher education.

According to district officials, each member of this year's cohort will graduate from Linden High School having earned 48 college credits through the program, providing a substantial head start toward a college degree.

Investing in Student Success

Addressing members of the Linden Board of Education, Lester emphasized the lasting impact of the district's commitment to expanding opportunities for students.

"Your investment in these young people goes well beyond what you may have imagined," Lester said. "I see tremendous leadership not only through the Superintendent's Council, but throughout your schools."

Lester reflected on the students he has worked with throughout their four-year journey in the academy and expressed confidence in their futures.

"The people that I've had the privilege of serving for the last four years, I can say without a shadow of a doubt, I'm going to have a couple of billionaires in there. I'm going to have a senator or a president — I prefer both," Lester said. "It started here in Linden, throughout your schools."

Board members congratulated the students and their families while recognizing the value of the district's partnership with Kean University in expanding educational opportunities and creating pathways to college and career success.

Ready for What's Next

District officials noted that the scholars' accomplishments reflect Linden Public Schools' commitment to providing rigorous and engaging learning opportunities that challenge students to reach their fullest potential.

The achievement also aligns with the district's Strategic Roadmap priorities of Student Learning and Academic Excellence and Personalized Pathways for Student Success by expanding access to advanced coursework and creating meaningful opportunities that prepare students for life beyond high school.

Lester concluded his remarks by recognizing the role families played in supporting students throughout the demanding program.

"Parents, you should be proud of the work that these young people are doing," he said.

The recognition highlighted the continued success of the partnership between Linden Public Schools and Kean University and celebrated the accomplishments of a pioneering group of students whose journey began four years ago as eighth-graders and now culminates with both high school graduation and a significant head start on their college education.

As they prepare to receive their diplomas on June 23, the scholars stand poised to begin the next chapter of their academic careers with extensive university experience, college credits already earned, and a strong foundation for future success.