It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Amy Gartner, a beloved intervention specialist at Newark City Schools Digital. Amy’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless students whose lives she touched with compassion, patience, and wisdom.
Amy dedicated her career to serving students with unique learning needs, offering not only academic guidance but also emotional support and encouragement. Her passion for education was evident in every lesson she taught and every life she uplifted.
She had a gift for seeing potential where others saw obstacles and believed deeply in the power of perseverance, empathy, and personal connection. Through her role at Newark City Schools Digital, Amy worked tirelessly to ensure that no student was left behind, customizing learning strategies to help each individual thrive in a digital environment that could often feel isolating without the right support.
Colleagues remember Amy as a beacon of positivity and strength, someone who was always ready to lend a hand, offer advice, or simply listen. Her warm smile and calm presence brought comfort to both students and staff, creating an atmosphere of trust and acceptance.
She was more than just a teacher—she was a mentor, a confidante, and a fierce advocate for those who needed a voice. Her classroom, whether in person or virtual, was a safe haven for growth, exploration, and empowerment.
Amy’s impact extended well beyond the classroom walls. She was an active member of the Newark community, participating in local initiatives, supporting fellow educators, and volunteering her time to causes close to her heart.
Her generous spirit and deep-rooted kindness were evident in everything she did, and she modeled the very values she worked so hard to instill in her students: compassion, resilience, and the importance of making a difference.
Her legacy will endure through the many lives she changed, the lessons she imparted, and the love she gave so freely. To honor Amy’s enduring dedication to education, a scholarship fund is being established in her name. This fund will support future educators who share her passion for inclusive learning and her belief that every student deserves a champion.
In addition, a memorial service is being planned to celebrate Amy’s remarkable life and contributions. Friends, family, colleagues, and former students will come together to remember her joy, her commitment, and the light she brought into the world.
Amy Gartner’s life reminds us all of the profound influence a single person can have through kindness, dedication, and an unwavering belief in others. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.