(NEWARK, NJ) -- Great Oaks Legacy Charter School (GOLCS) is hosting a series of free Community Resource Fairs and Open Houses this winter and spring, welcoming Newark families and community members to access essential resources while learning more about the Great Oaks Legacy educational experience. These events are open to the entire community, regardless of enrollment status.
Each Community Resource Fair brings together trusted local and statewide organizations to connect families with vital services and support. At their first resource fair on February 11, 2026, families will be able to receive free winter coats on a first-come, first-served basis - courtesy of a donation from Jersey Cares. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour Great Oaks Legacy schools, meet school leaders and staff, learn more about the school’s K–12 pathway, and participate in resource giveaways available to all attendees.
Community members are encouraged to RSVP in advance at forms.gle/baB2vE3HYciamSnc9, though walk-ins are welcome.
As part of the February 11 High School Open House & Community Resource Fair, Great Oaks Legacy will provide free winter coats for families, available while supplies last. This special giveaway reflects Great Oaks Legacy’s continued commitment to supporting students and families beyond the classroom. The coats were generously donated by Jersey Cares and will be just one part of a night filled with free family and community resources.
Great Oaks Legacy Charter School is a Newark-based K–12 public charter school network recognized as No. 1 in College Readiness among Newark charter schools, according to U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools Rankings.
“Our responsibility as a school goes beyond academics,” said Jared Taillefer, Chief Executive Officer of Great Oaks Legacy Charter School. “Our buildings are places where families feel welcomed, supported, and connected to real resources. These Community Resource Fairs allow us to open our doors, strengthen partnerships, and make sure families leave with information and support that can make a difference in their everyday lives.”
Free Family & Community Resources Include:
* School tours and enrollment information
* Family support services
* Health and dental screenings
* Youth development and summer programming
* Access to local nonprofit and government partners
* Raffles and community giveaways
Upcoming Community Resource Fairs & Open Houses
* High School Open House & Community Resource Fair - Wednesday, February 11 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at Great Oaks Legacy Charter School High School (17–19 Crawford Street) in Newark. Free winter coats available while supplies last
* All Schools Open House & Community Resource Fair - Thursday, March 19 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at Fairmount Heights Middle School (240 14th Avenue) in Newark
Elementary Schools Open House & Community Resource Fair - Thursday, April 23 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at Downtown Elementary School (909 Broad Street) in Newark
All Schools Open House & Community Resource Fair - Wednesday, May 20 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at Fairmount Heights Middle School (240 14th Avenue) in Newark
Confirmed Community Partners
Community partners representing health, education, family support, and public services include: New Jersey Department of Children and Families, New Jersey Division on Civil Rights, Programs for Parents, Newark Federally Qualified Health Centers, La Casa de Don Pedro, Hola Doctor, WAFAA Organization, Newark Fire Department, Horizon, Newark Department of Health, FARE, Newark Public Library, Lincoln Park Coast Cultural District, Liberty Dental, Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey
Families and community members are welcome to attend any event. No prior connection to Great Oaks Legacy Charter School is required.
RSVP Today: forms.gle/baB2vE3HYciamSnc9
Interested community partners who would like to participate in future Community Resource Fairs are encouraged to contact Richard Greco, Managing Director of Marketing, Communications & External Affairs, at [email protected].
Great Oaks Legacy Charter School is a Newark-based, K–12 public charter school network committed to preparing students for college, career, and life success. The school maintains a 93% graduation rate and 95% student attendance across campuses.
Great Oaks Legacy integrates STEM education and college readiness into the school day from Pre-K through high school, offering students early and sustained exposure to future pathways. Nearly 48% of seniors graduate with college credits, while 84% of juniors and seniors take at least one Advanced Placement course, more than 50% above the state average.
Students benefit from 1:1 college and career counseling beginning in 9th grade, access to Career & Technical Education programs in Health Science and Computer Science, and 400+ hours of academic tutoring annually. The school is also home to an award-winning Advocacy Club, reflecting its commitment to leadership development and civic engagement.
