Street Insider April 16, 2008

HEADLINE: Kumon Opens New Math and Reading Center in Newark

Kumon, the world's largest after-school education program, opens a new center, located at 649 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., in Newark. The public is invited to attend the grand opening celebration on Wednesday, April 16, 2008 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, hosted by Newark Kumon Math and Reading Center directors, Maritza Gonzalez and Noel Cruz, will begin at 4:00 p.m. at which time Council Member Dana Rone will speak on the importance of education. Rone, a proud Newark resident, has a passion for improving housing and education in Newark.

"For the past four years, Kumon has been providing Newark Public School students with extra academic support in math and reading through the No Child Left Behind program. Our experience has convinced us that there is a need and demand for resources like Kumon in the community," says Matt Lupsha, vice-president of the education department of Kumon Math and Reading Centers. "Opening a center here will allow us to offer year-round access to all families in Newark." In an effort to make supplemental education a more affordable priority, Kumon will be offering discounted tuition to Newark residents.

Maritza Gonzalez joined Kumon in 2004 and has been involved in several special projects in the local urban communities. She attended Newark Public Schools and lived in Newark for 10 years. Gonzalez received her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Montclair State University. A successful mother of two and Kumon Parent, she is eager to share her vast knowledge and experience in education with all Newark families.

"I am looking forward to being a positive role model in the community," says Gonzalez. "Kumon will provide a sense of stability and comfort and will serve to empower the children and parents in a positive environment."

Prior to joining Kumon, Noel Cruz was assistant principal of the Lady Liberty Charter School in Newark. For the past two years, he has been spearheading Kumon's work with the NCLB supplemental education services.

"Kumon is excited to be a part of the Newark rising all around us. We want to contribute to the growth and development of children, families, schools and the entire community," says Cruz of opening the Newark Center. "We believe the children in Newark are capable of achieving great things. Having Kumon as a resource will enhance their learning opportunities, whether it be for review, practice or enrichment."

About Kumon Math and Reading Centers: Kumon (koo-mon) is an after-school math and reading program. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2008, the learning method uses a systematic individualized approach that helps children develop a solid command of math and reading skills. Through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration and develop better study skills. Kumon has 26,000 centers in 45 countries and more than four million students studying worldwide.