🎉 Join us in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary in Elizabeth, NJ in 2026!  #GoElizabethNJ250 🇺🇸

Guest: George Mikros, Principal, Alexander Hamilton Preparatory Academy

In this episode of Our City: Stories That Shape America, Mayor J. Christian Bollwage is joined by Principal George Mikros of Alexander Hamilton Preparatory Academy to explore the powerful connection between one of America’s founding fathers and Elizabeth’s public schools today. A lifelong resident of Elizabeth and former history teacher, Mikros shares his journey from student to educator to principal of a school named for Alexander Hamilton, who once studied in Elizabeth Town.

The conversation bridges Hamilton’s humble beginnings and ambitious rise with the diverse student body at Alexander Hamilton Prep. Mikros explains how the school weaves Hamilton’s values of perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and civic responsibility into a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes social mobility and leadership. As the building celebrates its 100th anniversary and the nation approaches America 250, the episode highlights how the academy is not only honoring history, but actively preparing the next generation of leaders, problem solvers, and innovators who will shape Elizabeth and the country in the decades ahead.

Episode Highlights

• George Mikros shares his background growing up in Elizabeth and his path from local student to principal of Alexander Hamilton Prep.
• A discussion of Alexander Hamilton’s time in Elizabeth Town and how those formative years influenced his role as a national leader.
• How the academy’s curriculum reflects Hamilton’s values of ambition, education, and civic engagement.
• The 100th anniversary of the Alexander Hamilton school building and its legacy in the community.
• Mention of notable alumni, including Drew Esocoff and Jay Burkett, who returned for the centennial celebration.
• Integrating American history, government, and economics into the school’s culture to build informed, engaged citizens.
• The role of the America 250 anniversary in inspiring students to see themselves as contributors to the next 250 years of American history.
• Mikros’ vision for Hamilton Prep students as future leaders, innovators, and public servants emerging from Elizabeth’s public schools.