The top reported proficiency rate is 36% in Social studies. The lowest is 22% in Math.
Original Research by School Decision on Lawrence Family Development Charter (district)
Lawrence Family Development Charter (District) is a single-school charter district serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, located in the city of Lawrence, Massachusetts. The district’s enrollment is predominantly Hispanic, representing virtually the entire student body, with only a handful of students identifying as white or Black. This composition reflects the surrounding community, and the district operates as a public charter school choice for families within and around Lawrence. Because it serves only through eighth grade, there is no high school graduation rate to report, and the district does not offer the kinds of advanced coursework or career pathways typical of high school systems.
On the Massachusetts state assessments, known as NextGen MCAS, the district’s overall proficiency across tested subjects is below the midpoint when compared to other districts in Essex County. In mathematics, about one in five students scored at the proficient or advanced level in grades three through eight. English language arts saw a slightly higher share, approaching three in ten students reaching proficiency. In science, the proficiency rate was similar to math. At the eighth-grade level, where social studies is tested, about a third of students met the proficient mark. These results place the district in the lowest quarter of Essex County districts for overall academic performance. A parent considering this district will want to look into the instructional approach and support structures in place, as the proficiency rates suggest that many students are not yet meeting grade-level standards.
A notable strength is the district’s very low chronic absenteeism rate. The rate here is significantly lower than the county median and falls in the top quarter of Essex County districts, meaning students are consistently in class. Regular attendance is a strong foundation for learning and suggests a school environment where families are engaged and students are showing up.
Per-pupil current spending is in the lower range among county districts, which may reflect the district’s charter status and leaner administrative structure. Without data on free or reduced-price lunch eligibility, special education services, or English learner designation, it is not possible to assess the full economic and support needs of the student population from the available information. A parent may wish to ask the school directly about these demographics and the specific resources allocated for students who need extra help.
The district operates as a single campus, the Lawrence Family Development Charter School, and no recent district-level changes or strategic priorities were publicly reported through the channels searched. For families who want a K-8 public charter option in Lawrence, this district offers a small, consistent setting with strong attendance habits. The academic results, however, are an area a prospective family will want to explore in depth, particularly how the school addresses gaps in math, reading, and science proficiency.
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