East Brunswick’s Middlesex Co. Magnet Schools Wins NJDOE Lighthouse Award

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — Middlesex County Magnet Schools, formerly known as the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools, is one of the recipients of this year’s Lighthouse Award, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) announced.

The school, which is located in East Brunswick, was awarded for its “exceptional strides in increasing equity in dual enrollment programming,” allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school.

The NJDOE established the Lighthouse Award initiative in 2017 to commend and celebrate the achievements of New Jersey school districts and charter schools.

The awards highlight efforts to address equity issues and improve opportunities for all students.

The award was presented by Acting Commissioner of Education Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan at the September meeting of the State Board of Education.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by the New Jersey Department of Education for our efforts to promote equity and increase opportunities. This important work highlights our district’s commitment to equitable educational outcomes for all students,” Superintendent Jorge E. Diaz said.

Officials said the school worked hard to ensure that every student has open access to career and technical education programs across the district, as well as the choice of school they wish to attend.

The district’s recent rebranding has helped advertise career pathways to underrepresented, non-traditional, and marginalized populations.

“Middlesex County is one of the most diverse counties in the country – we place a high priority on diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our programs and services,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director, Ronald G. Rios. said

“I commend the leadership at the Middlesex County Magnet Schools for investing in the community by attracting students that are reflective of our culturally rich population and offering every resident free access to top quality, competitive education. This well-deserved industry award is a testament to the Magnet School’s commitment to our residents, and we, the Board of County Commissioners, are incredibly proud of their ongoing achievements.”

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