Students in Newark Public Schools could soon graduate with more than just a high school diploma. City leaders, including Mayor Ras J. Baraka, announced a new public safety career pathway in partnership with Rutgers University–Newark—designed to connect students directly to careers in law enforcement and fire service. The program creates a structured pipeline, allowing students to take college-level courses while still in high school and work toward an associate degree as they prepare for careers in Newark’s police and fire departments. Officials say the initiative is also aimed at addressing a nationwide shortage in public safety personnel by building a local workforce from within the community. “A dual degree right they can get a high school diploma and an associate’s degree in the city of Newark by taking court versus by they’re still in high school,” Baraka said. The pathway will be offered through select high schools, including Barringer and Malcolm X Shabazz, giving students early exposure to public safety careers. “In the creation of a pipeline from Barringer and Malcolm X Shabazz high schools, or after college to becoming Newark’s finest and Newark’s bravest,” said Schools Superintendent Roger León. Students will have access to hands…..