Lawrence Township Public Schools Celebrates Dr. Jametta P. Clarke's Recognition with the NAACP Freedom Fund Award

Lawrence Township Public Schools is proud to announce that Dr. Jametta P. Clarke, a dedicated Social Studies teacher at Lawrence High School, has been honored with the prestigious Freedom Fund Award by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). This award recognizes her exceptional commitment to advancing social justice, equity, and education in the district and beyond.

Dr. Clarke has made a significant impact in her role at Lawrence High School, where she leads New Jersey’s largest high school-led Black History Celebration. Through this annual event, she has created a meaningful space to highlight Black history and culture, inspiring students and the broader community. Her unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion has become a cornerstone of her work.

In addition to her role in the classroom, Dr. Clarke’s dedication to enhancing curriculum and course offerings reflects her tireless advocacy for social justice and representation in education. By writing the African American History and Social Justice curriculums, she ensures that students receive a comprehensive understanding of diverse perspectives, which is crucial for fostering an inclusive learning environment.

In addition to her work in education, Jametta leads the Black Student Union, providing a supportive space for students to engage with their identity and advocate for their needs. Her involvement as a choir director at Union Baptist Church showcases her commitment to cultural expression and community service, enriching the lives of those around her.

Moreover, as a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Epsilon Upsilon Omega Chapter, she exemplifies leadership and service, aligning with the values of empowerment and support for marginalized communities.

Jametta Clarke’s multifaceted contributions demonstrate her unwavering dedication to justice, education, and community engagement, making her a deserving recipient of the Freedom Fund Award. Her efforts not only uplift her school but also serve as a model for others striving for equity and social change. In addition to the Freedom Fund Award, Dr. Clarke also received official commendations from the office of NJ Governor Phil Murphy, NJ Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, Trenton Council President, Crystal Feliciano,  Mercer County Clerk - Paula Sollami-Covello, and the Mercer County Board of County Commissioners.

The NAACP's Fighting Fund for Freedom (aka Freedom Fund ), began in 1953 (on a national level) as a ten-year program to intensify efforts to complete the job of emancipation. Near the culmination of this effort, Medgar W. Evers, a heroic NAACP Mississippi Field Secretary, was killed by an assassin’s bullet. This prompted the NAACP Chairman Bishop Stephen Spottswood to pay tribute to this gallant warrior at the NAACP Convention in Chicago, Illinois in July 1963. He did so by proclaiming that the NAACP Fighting Fund for Freedom would continue until the job of emancipating our people is complete. 

Lawrence Township Public Schools congratulates Dr. Jametta P. Clarke on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates her unwavering dedication to our school district and community.