Oprah Surprises N.J. Students After Learning About Principal's Innovative Programs

NEWARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) – Students at one New Jersey high school got a surprise visit from Oprah Winfrey on Friday.

Winfrey stopped by West Side High School in Newark after hearing about the work that Principal Akbar Cook has been doing.

Cook has been hosting Friday night parties for his students to give them a fun, safe place to hangout.

MORE: Newark High School Principal Behind Laundry Program Goes Above & Beyond Again

He also made headlines last year after adding a laundry room in the school because too many students were getting bullied for wearing dirty clothes.

Winfrey pledged $500,000 to help fund the "Lights On" program through the summer. She also gave each student a $500 Shop Rite gift card.

In:
• New Jersey
• Oprah Winfrey
• Newark