Students and staff at Arts High School in Newark received a special visit as Melba Moore returned to campus to serve as principal for a day.

Moore, a Tony Award-winning actress, singer and TV star, graduated from the High School of Performing Arts. Years ago, she was part of a cultural performance group called Black Voices.

“What is it about Newark that produces such great music and musicians? The people,” Moore said. “There's not only a hunger for it, but there seems to be a natural ability for people to paint or do whatever it is they do.”

The visit was part of the official reopening ceremony for Newark Schools Stadium.

“School is so important, something we carry with us for the rest of our lives. And just seeing the impact that it's had on her and even her being nervous about being in her alma mater, that really reinforces what I already knew: that your education is important,” said Principal Regina Sharpe.