Started as a joint initiative between the Devils and the Newark Public School System, the program aims to provide an incentive for students to perform well in school (and it gives them a chance to check out the Prudential Center). While the idea was viewed with some initial skepticism since Newark sport fans traditionally gravitate toward soccer, it has proven to be successful. By the end of the first marking period for the 2012-2013 school year, a total of 18,797 students had received Devils tickets through the program.
Students in grades 3-12 are eligible, and tickets are given to those who either place in the Honor Roll (A or B in all subjects) or the Super Honor Roll (A grade in all subjects) in a marking period. Each student gets two tickets to an individual game.
The students are given vouchers that have to be redeemed in person, so if the vouchers end up in the wrong hands they can’t be scalped or sold.
Read a message from the State District Superintendent about the program here.