The Newark Trust for Education is holding a forum for Newark Public Schools Advisory Board candidates on Tuesday, April 14 at 6 p.m. at their offices at 494 Broad Street in Newark.

Seven candidates have agreed to attend the two-hour forum to answer questions about the issues facing Newark Public Schools, which has been under state control since 1995.

Though school board members only have advisory power, over time more responsibilities are expected to be returned to board control.

"There is no doubt that, one day – sooner rather than later – Newark Schools will be returned to be run by Newark citizens," said Ross Danis, the CEO of the Newark Trust for Education. "The likelihood of a return to local governance will depend on the overall effectiveness of the seated Advisory Board."

The candidates who have agreed to participate in the forum are: Veronica Branch, Dashay Carter, Crystal C. Fonseca, Ronnie E. Kellam, Marques-Aquil Lewis, Charles F. Love III and Sheila Montague.

The event is free and open to the public, however, it is already at capacity. A podcast will be made available on the Trust's web site and will be available in the iTunes store shortly after the event.