LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATION FUND, INC. Strengthening families . . . building community . . . through education FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT TREASURER CLERK 2015‐2016 DIRECTORS Raquel Bauman, EdD Dolores Calaf Ethel Cruz Jose Cruz Rosalia Gallo Anne Hemmer Marisol Hilario Pavel Payano Kretcha Roldan Wendy Taylor Joan Thompson John Housianitis Rafael Abislaiman Gregory Spurr Ana Medina EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Ralph L. Carrero
From the President On behalf of the Board of Directors, administration, staff, students and families that are served through all of Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Inc.’s (LFDEF) programs, I present this Annual Report which covers July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016. Our major strategic accomplishments this year included a Board vote to change our name, beginning in FY’17, to Lawrence Family Development, Inc. (LFD, Inc.), therefore future annual reports will capture this new name. This 2015‐2016 Annual Report reflects our unwavering commitment to our mission: strengthening families and building community through education. Below is a summary of our accomplishments over the past fiscal year: Opening of a new STEM Center at 34 West Street for the instruction to charter school students. This center was funded through multiple foundation sources and will be key to science partnerships and project‐based learning for students in day and after school programs. Setting the foundation for creating a safe space for some of the most vulnerable and disconnected young people in the City of Lawrence, our Alternative Youth Development Program’s Canal Street Project was launched. The Canal Street Project was developed with the involvement of staff, the Lawrence Youth Team members and YouthBuild‐Lawrence students. Acquiring a generous gift from the Fournier Family of property at 10 Railroad Street in Lawrence. This gift provides LFDEF, Inc. the security of knowing that its public charter school The Academy for Early Academic Preparation has a permanent home. Providing technological upgrades to the Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center, which increases the availability and use of handheld technology for adult English as a Second Language and Citizenship students, 22 of whom this year became new United States citizens. Launching a new LFDEF, Inc. website and social media presence to further strengthen our ability to disseminate the work being done by our staff, students and program participants. Planning for more than one year led to a fully‐staffed LFDEF, Inc. Finance and Human Resources Department revamped to more effectively serve all programmatic components of Lawrence Family Development. Sharing our facilities and services with like‐minded nonprofits and expanding outreach to new urban audiences were foundational to our partnerships with The Community Group and Casa Dominicana. Rolling out an innovative LMS (Learning Management System) by Leadership members and the LFDCS Digital Instructor. This LMS expands dissemination opportunities and increases students’ access to learning tools and has set the stage for a pilot project with BYOT (Bring Your Own Technology) for students and staff. Awarding to sixty‐one 8th grade graduates of the charter school’s 2016 graduating class over one and one‐half million dollars in scholarships and financial aid to some of New England’s most prestigious private secondary high schools. Building and selling, by YouthBuild‐Lawrence, another single‐family home developed for low‐moderate, income‐eligible, first‐time home buyers, while breaking ground on a new project on Jackson Street in Lawrence. In addition to our individual program goals and accomplishments, LFD, Inc. continues to move forward with our goals of professionalism and excellence in all aspects of the organization. As the organization grows, we have identified, in our 2014‐2020 Strategic Plan, ambitious goals for the future. After reading the highlights found in this Annual Report, we remain committed to our mission—strengthening families and building community through education. I hope that the highlights found in this 2015‐2016 Annual Report prompt readers and the Board of Directors to share my enthusiasm for what the future holds for LFDEF, Inc. Sincerely, John C. Housianitis, President LFDEF, Inc. Board of Directors
Our History… To build on the success of Lawrence Futures and the work of the Lawrence Youth Commission, the board and administration of the Lawrence Youth Commission (LYC) applied in 1991 for non‐profit status as a 501(c)(3) IRS‐designated nonprofit. This new entity qualified for funding to help launch several new and promising pilot projects in community education and leadership development now known as Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Inc. Some of those projects included… a Career Center housed at the Lawrence Public Library, which offered after‐school programs—such as, Proyecto Alcance and Project Reach to support the goals of high school students to undertake paths to higher education. Career awareness information and life skills, along with intensive Math, English and English as a Second Language (ESL) were established to reduce the drop‐out rate and increase admissions to colleges. The Career Center then received AmeriCorps funding to launch City CORE, one of the first five AmeriCorps programs in Massachusetts that enabled young people to learn skills as they performed community service and earned higher education scholarships. These projects provided the roots for today’s LFDEF, Inc. Alternative Youth Development Programs. an Adult Leadership Development Program (ALDP) helped create a new generation of community leaders immersed in the heritage and culture of new immigrants. The goal of the ALDP was to provide information on management, leadership, legal and fiduciary responsibilities to support newcomer residents with the skills and confidence to serve as board members on local nonprofit organizations. Programs of this type provided a foundation for what is known today as the LFDEF, Inc.’s Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center. the Parent Mobilization Project (PMP), considered one of the LYC’s most ambitious endeavors, hosted workshops led by a core of Latino parents that “asked the right questions.” The PMP recruited and trained hundreds of Latino parents for greater awareness of their rights and responsibilities as new Americans—particularly the right to expect quality education for the future of their children. At kitchen tables and living rooms in almost every neighborhood of Lawrence, trained parents strengthened family life and built community cohesiveness and purpose. Hundreds of parents developed new confidence to attend parent‐teacher conferences, signed up for ESL classes, applied for jobs and set limits and expectations for their children. This mobilization became the catalyst for a 1995 application for the Lawrence Family Development Charter School, one of the first approved charter schools in Massachusetts. Our Evolution...building on the past to respond to the needs of today... In 1992, the Lawrence Family Development and Education Fund, Inc. (LFDEF) held its initial board meeting at the Lawrence Heritage State Park to elect the founding board members and acceptance of the organization’s first grant from Shawmut Bank. With a foundation to build on, LFDEF, Inc. set out to establish programs of the highest quality that met the needs of emerging populations in Lawrence. Parent Mobilization Project launches 1989 1991 Lawrence Youth Commission applies for Non‐Profit Status LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT Career Center established at Lawrence Public Library City Core program becomes one of the first AmeriCorps programs in Massachusetts PAGE 1
Our History… Mission...Vision...Opportunity...Aligned Lessons learned from the Career Center and AmeriCorps project and the urgent need to offer an education/ workplace program for seriously at‐risk youth led to the successful creation of YouthBuild‐Lawrence in 1993. Today, YouthBuild‐Lawrence, in its twenty‐second cycle, successfully prepares young adults to earn their HiSET, gain job readiness skills, develop self‐confidence and feel ownership in their community through building homes for low‐income Lawrence families. Building on the Adult Leadership Development Program and the Parent Mobilization Project (PMP) and with consideration for the attainment of U.S. Citizenship in Lawrence, LFDEF, Inc. applied for funding from the Massachusetts Office for Refugees and Immigrants (MIRA) and the New Americans Fund at the Boston Foundation. In collaboration with MIRA and funding sources, volunteer facilitators from the PMP became citizenship educators and assisted hundreds of immigrants to attain United States citizenship. Classes were held in the public library, Adelante Youth Center, civic clubs and churches throughout the community, and in 2006 the Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center opened as the permanent home for LFDEF, Inc.’s adult education programs. Its funding continues through a variety of sources. The 1993, Massachusetts Education Reform Act established a foundation rate of state‐mandated funding for public education and included the licensing of state‐funded charter schools as an essential piece of education reform. LFDEF, Inc. was intimately involved with establishment of this initial charter school legislation in Massachusetts. In September 1995, after several years of hard work at the state and local levels, the Lawrence Family Development Charter School opened as one of the first in a group of fourteen public charter schools in Massachusetts. As a “Level 1” public school for MCAS performance in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016, the work of the Lawrence Family Development Charter School is known for its best practices as a Massachusetts urban school and works extensively to disseminate best practices in urban elementary education. Our charter school uses research‐based practices for academic instruction and intervention, and supplements this instruction with after school and summer school programs. In FY’2015‐2016 Lawrence Family Development Charter School (LFDCS) enrolled 698 children from early Kindergarten through grade eight and graduates many of its students to private‐independent admissions‐based rigorous secondary schools ensuring a path to higher education and a positive, successful future. We continue with a keen focus on the key design elements from our founding in 1995 (ideas still in force from our original LFDCS charter application): Parent Engagement, Dual Language, Effective Teaching is Key, Partnerships and Governance and Leadership Structure. Today, these design elements influence our school and our dissemination projects. Inaugural Meeting of Lawrence Family Development and Education Fund, Inc. as a 501(c)3 1992 1993 YouthBuildLawrence Opens LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 2 Lawrence Family Development Charter School opens as one of Massachusetts first 14 charter schools 1995 LFDEF, Inc. receives funding from state to start Citizenship program, helping hundreds of immigrants attain US. Citizenship
Our History… Raising Scholarships for Today’s Students and Endowing Scholarships for the Future In 2007, the founding Executive Director/Superintendent, Patricia F. Karl, retired, and in honor of her work and commitment, the LFDEF, Inc. Board of Directors established the PFK Endowment Scholarship Fund with a plan to raise one million dollars over ten years. This fund is a restricted fund until we reach $1,000,000 and is invested by Essex County Community Foundation. Also created was the PFK Direct Scholarship Fund for our current graduating class. These funds ensure that promising graduates have the necessary financial assistance to meet the tuition gap between parent contribution and financial awards of secondary schools. Every year, with the support of the Direct Scholarship Fund, LFDCS graduates attend some of New England’s most prestigious and rigorous secondary schools. The PFK Scholarship Funds are supported through the generosity of patrons through individual donations, an annual holiday card campaign and through our annual fundraiser. Providing the Places and Spaces where our Programs are “Strengthening Families and Building Community through Education” Today, facility assets of LFD, Inc. are valued at over $11 million dollars and ensures stabile, safe, welcoming structures that foster LFD, Inc.’s mission and revitalizes its neighborhoods. Over the past two decades, LFDEF, Inc.’s board has supported new construction at the Charter School’s Lower School site at 34 West Street, and a seven million dollar purchase and rebuild at 400 and 404 Haverhill Street, which houses the Upper Charter School (grades 5‐8) and the Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center. In 2015, LFDEF, Inc. acquired 10 Railroad Street through a gift from the Fournier Family. The Railroad Street property houses the LFDCS Academy for Early Academic Preparation, and will soon house the LFD, Inc./LFDCS Facilities Department. In FY’2015‐2016 we refurbished our old K‐1 building and built it into a STEM Center at the West Street campus. In the fall of 2014, LFDEF Inc. took over management of the Lawrence Youth Team. Through its work with Lawrence’s proven risk young men, the Lawrence Youth Team has become an integral piece of LFDEF, Inc.’s comprehensive Alternative Youth Development Program. To house this expanding work, LFDEF, Inc. entered into a lease for a property at 417 Canal Street in Lawrence. Through renovations being competed by members of the Lawrence Youth Team, 417 Canal Street will soon be home to the LFD, Inc. Alternative Youth Development Center. In 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016, Lawrence Family Development Charter School (LFDCS) earned Level 1 public school status for its MCAS scores, is a strong performing urban school district and builds on its success today with the Academy of Early Academic Preparation for K‐1, K‐2 and Grade 1 at 10 Railroad Street. In 2014, Lawrence Family Development and Education Fund, Inc. became an approved Preferred Provider/ Turnaround Operator for Massachusetts underperforming school districts in need of targeted assistance, and in September, 2014 executed a three‐year contract with the Lawrence Public Schools (LPS) to open the Lawrence Family Public Academy as a demonstration project to provide LPS targeted assistance with teacher preparation, academic skills, language acquisition and social advancement for four and five year olds. LFDEF asked to take over Academy for Early Academic Preparation Opens 2012 2007 LFDEF establishes PFK Scholarship Funds LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT management of Lawrence Youth Team and SSYI Program 2014 LFDEF becomes approved Targeted Assistance Turnaround Operator for Massachusetts schools 2016 LFDEF begins work on Alternative Youth Development Center PAGE 3 FY17
LFDEF, Inc. Programs… The five major components of the Lawrence Family Development and Education Fund, Inc. are: YouthBuild‐Lawrence, AmeriCorps, SSYI/Lawrence Youth Team FY’2016 OUTCOMES: Alternave Youth Programs Alternave Youth Development Programs 146 Young Adult Lives Impacted 66 YouthBuild-Lawrence Participants 30 YouthBuild-Lawrence Graduates 80 Youth Team Members 22 GED/HiSET Certificates Cizenship and ESL Classes for adults FY’2016 OUTCOMES: Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center 261 students completed program 217 students completed ESL classes 44 students completed Citizenship classes 42 immigrant/refugees completed Citizenship application process 22 new United States citizens K‐1 through Grade 8 public charter school FY’2016 OUTCOMES: Lawrence Family Development Charter School 698 students enrolled 81% students in Saturday Academy showed improvement 76% students scored proficient on the MCAS ELA compared to 64% state average 1,372 children on waitlist 68% students scored proficient on Math MCAS compared to 57% state average 81% graduating 8th graders accepted to admissions-based schools Endowment and Direct Scholarships for LFDCS graduates FY’2016 OUTCOMES: PFK Scholarship Funds $38,774 was raised at the “Meet the Scholars... Who Reach for the Stars” fundraiser at the Stevens Estate for the PFK Direct Scholarship Fund $1.5M in scholarships and financial aid was awarded to the Class of 2016 over 4 years Lawrence Family Public Academy (K‐1 & K‐2) FY’2016 OUTCOMES: Turnaround Operator For Targeted Assistance 75 students enrolled in K-1 82% K-1 students at or above benchmark on DIBELS Letter Naming Fluency and First Sound Fluency 124 students enrolled in K-2 93% K-2 students at or above benchmark on DIBELS Letter Naming Fluency and First Sound Fluency 60 Class of 2016 graduates and alumni from the Classes of 2013, 2014 and 2015 received scholarships from LFD, Inc. totaling $92,772 31 unsubsidized job placements 9 internship-to-hire opportunities 18 professional certifications 8 participants attending post-secondary education LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 4
Alternative Youth Development Programs YouthBuild‐Lawrence FY’16 was another successful year for YouthBuild‐Lawrence (YBL). In addition to completing program cycle 20 in December with 30 graduates, cycle 21 kicked off in February with a new class of 34 participants. Cycle 21 is one of our youngest classes in YBL history. During FY’16, YBL began a very productive relationship with Childrens’ Friend and Family Services, a Massachusetts mental health provider. As part of this relationship, several members of Cohort 20 were able to begin a social services training program and serve internships as peer mentors. 20th Anniversary Celebration In January, YBL held a 20th Anniversary Celebration at the site of the future LFD, Inc. Alternative Youth Development Center. This well‐attended event was catered by the YBL culinary staff and featured a headlining address by Massachusetts Speaker of the House, Robert DeLeo. ServSafe Training During FY’16, YBL initiated a culinary arts pilot program. Through a partnership with the City of Lawrence, 8 members of Cohort 20 worked with the YBL Culinary Arts Coordinator to prepare for and earn their ServSafe Certification. ServSafe is a training program administered by the National Restaurant Association and is required by most restaurants as a basic credential for their management staff. The 8 students were then placed into internships with local food service establishments through YBL’s Internship‐toHire program. At the beginning of 2015, Jackeline Pena Aquino applied to YouthBuild-Lawrence. She recognized that she was a strong young woman who said, “I will get what I want.” For her, that was her High School Equivalency or HiSET. Jackeline tested into the program at a second grade level, but didn’t let that stop her from earning the credential a year after she was accepted into the program. During her time at YouthBuild-Lawrence, she diligently worked on her academic subjects, participated in all volunteer opportunities and was voted to be the student speaker at her graduation. The saying goes: “Once in YouthBuild, always in YouthBuild.” She as well as other alumni of the program are continually sharing their accomplishments. JACKIE HAS BEEN ACCEPTED TO NORTHERN ESSEX COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND IS PURSUING HER DREAM OF BECOMING A NURSE. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 5
Alternative Youth Development Programs AmeriCorps This fiscal year marked YouthBuild‐Lawrence’s 21st year of participation in the AmeriCorps Program. This program offered YouthBuild‐Lawrence students the opportunity to complete service hours and earn an AmeriCorps education award towards post‐secondary education. During FY’16, YouthBuild‐Lawrence continued the Service Learning Thursdays program, and YouthBuild‐Lawrence students completed 8,408 service hours at different sites in the Merrimack Valley. Emmaus House Emmaus House programs span emergency shelters, affordable housing, homelessness prevention, education and job training. Each week, YBL students prep and cook a meal for approximately 34 homeless people. Students plan the meal as well as coordinate with Emmaus House staff in order to have food ready for the next week. The Salvation Army The Salvation Army provides an array of social services from providing food for the hungry, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. Each Thursday, YBL students fill boxes with items for people who come in looking for food. YBL also restocks shelves and sorts items by category. As people sign in, they are greeted by our students who help them with their boxed food. National Night Out Every year in cities nationwide, National Night Out events promote community and safety awareness. YouthBuild‐Lawrence hosted a site for the General Donovan Neighborhood. Prior to this well‐attended event, students designed flyers and posters for the yearly block party, made games for the neighborhood kids, including a miniature putting golf green, and set up, cleaned and prepped and cooked food. Three years ago my path in life looked very different. I dropped out of high school in my teens and spent four years incarcerated for auto theft. After completing my last term at the Middleton House of Corrections, I was working for a shipping company and looking for a lifestyle change. In 2015, I joined the YouthBuild– Lawrence AmeriCorps program to complete my High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) and explore what other opportunities were available to me. I never imagined how the AmeriCorps program would change my life. I completed over 1,000 hours of community service and gained valuable experience working at sites like Windrush Farms and Mary Immaculate Health Care Services. Today I continue to give back to my community working for Childrens’ Friend and Family Services as a Peer Mentor/ Certified Peer Specialist, and I am preparing to continue my education. EDDIE COMPLETED OVER 1,000 HOURS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE WITH YOUTHBUILD-LAWRENCE, MORE THAN DOUBLE THE EXPECTED AMOUNT FOR A YOUTHBUILD STUDENT. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 6
Alternative Youth Development Programs Lawrence Youth Team (LYT) FY’16 was a successful year for the Lawrence Youth Team (LYT). In November, LFDEF, Inc. and the LYT were awarded a new Safe and Successful Youth Initiative grant from the State of Massachusetts. Youth Center During FY’16, Lawrence Youth Team members took an active role in the creation of an Alternative Youth Development Center in Lawrence. A team of 5 to 8 young men spent four days a week learning all of the skills necessary to work on a major construction and rehab project. Photography Program Inspired by the documentary Born Into Brothels and the Kids with Cameras Project, the Lawrence Youth Team partnered with the Essex Art Center to help LYT members view the City of Lawrence through their eyes. Working with Dan Williams, Professor Emeritus of Art and Photography at Ohio University, the LYT learned to properly use a digital camera and scope out locations for shots and digital editing. Most importantly, they began to look at their neighborhoods and their surroundings through a different lens. Dan will continue to work with the LYT during FY’17 to continue creating art which will eventually be exhibited in the Alternative Youth Development Center. Prison In‐Reach The LYT staff expanded their outreach efforts over the past year to include Prison In‐Reach. In‐Reach allows case managers and street workers to work with young men as they prepare to transition from incarceration into the City of Lawrence. The LYT spends several hours a week meeting with inmates at the Essex County Correctional Alternative Center “the Farm” and the Middleton House of Corrections. LYT Risk Factors I grew up in Lawrence and got arrested for the first time when I was 12 years old for trespassing and breaking and entering. Before I ended up with the Lawrence Youth Team, I was arrested 4 times, was in and out of lock-up centers and committed by the State to the Dept. of Youth Services. One day, while at court, I was introduced to Willy, a street worker for the Lawrence Youth Team and was encouraged to join the program. Initially, I was hesitant about getting involved, but because I had a couple of friends who had joined the program, I had hope. Without the Lawrence Youth Team and the SSYI program, I might be selling drugs, gang involved or in jail serving a lengthy time sentence. TODAY CHRISTIAN HAS RECEIVED HIS HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA AND BECOME A FATHER. HE HAS NOT BEEN ARRESTED FOR OVER A YEAR AND WAS ABLE TO GET OUT OF A GANG. CHRISTIAN IS CURRENTLY EMPLOYED FULL TIME AND ENROLLED IN COLLEGE. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 7
Alternative Youth Development Programs Canal Street Project During FY’16, the Lawrence Family Development and Education Fund, Inc. took steps to reduce redundancy and improve on the services being provided by YouthBuildLawrence and the Lawrence Youth Team. A state‐of‐theart Youth Development Center, focusing specifically on the needs of our most proven‐risk young people, was identified as the greatest need to grow and strengthen our programs. In July of 2015, LFDEF, Inc. entered into a lease agreement for a former business space at 417 Canal Street in Lawrence. One of the most groundbreaking and exciting features of this project is the inclusion of our Alternative Youth program participants in the renovation and build‐out of the Center. To oversee the project and to teach and supervise a team of proven‐risk young men involved with the Lawrence Youth Team, LFDEF, Inc. hired a contractor with youth development experience. In August of 2015, they began the internal demolition of this site, and by winter, the former home of Lawrence Plate and Glass was a shell of a building. During FY’16, these young men have not only gained valuable experience in demolition, painting and flooring, but have also learned skills to succeed in a work environment and work as a team. During the next fiscal year, they will continue to learn skills such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, masonry and HVAC. When completed, the Center will provide a cadre of wraparound services including: case management, mental health services, alternative education, vocational training, micro‐enterprises, recreational programming and a drop‐in center. LFD, Inc. anticipates the Center will be open for programming by the end of 2016. To learn more about the Center, visit www.lawrenceyouth.org. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 8
Alternative Youth Development Programs 165 West Street In March of 2016, YouthBuild‐Lawrence (YBL) completed and sold its seventh single family home in the City of Lawrence. Work began in the spring of 2014 when YBL broke ground on a previously vacant lot. Per the national YouthBuild model, students spend 50% of their time in the classroom, 10% of their time participating in community service learning projects and 40% of their time on a construction project. YBL students rotate daily between three sections focusing on ESL and social studies, STEM and worksite. Students in YBL cycles 19 and 20 completed the construction component of the YouthBuild program while working on this house. Through their construction work, students receive OSHA and Red Cross training. These certification programs are housed in green buildings and all YouthBuild houses are built to be energy efficient. At the end of the year‐long cycle, most participants complete the Pre‐Apprenticeship Certification Training (PACT) and are prepared to begin a Union Carpentry Apprenticeship. YouthBuild‐Lawrence properties are sold as part of the City of Lawrence Community Development Department’s Low to Moderate Income First‐time Homebuyer Program. The program provides financial assistance to low and moderate income households in the purchase of their first home. Assistance is available to qualified Lawrence homebuyers in the form of a 0% deferred loan forgiven in five years for up to 3% of the homeʹs purchase price to assist with down payment and closing costs. The money from the sale of the YouthBuild‐Lawrence house goes towards the next YouthBuild‐Lawrence construction project. In April of 2016, YouthBuild‐Lawrence broke ground on its next project: a single family home at 211‐213 Jackson Street in Lawrence. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 9
Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center FY’16 was another busy year at the Maria del Pilar Quintana Center. The Quintana Center was completely wired for WiFi access, allowing students to use their own devices in the classroom and at the Center. Through the generous support of our funders, the LFDEF, Inc. general operating budget and fees paid by program participants, the Quintana Center served over 450 individuals this fiscal year. Board of Immigration Appeals Certification The Quintana Center ‘s Recognition as a Board of Immigration Appeals Approved Agency reflects the quality of the LFDEF, Inc. citizenship services. This year marks the 2nd accreditation cycle for the Center’s Manager, Ms. Sandy Cepeda. BIA certification is approved by the United States Executive Office for Immigration Reviews (EOIR). This organizational recognition and accreditation of Ms. Cepeda allows her to continue counseling and representation of clients only before the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services FY’16 provided an opportunity for LFDEF, Inc. and the Quintana Center to strengthen our relationship with the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In May, the USCIS Community Relations Officer visited the Quintana Center and provided a workshop on the immigration process for ESL and Citizenship students. Also in May, LDFEF, Inc. staff had the pleasure of attending a meeting at the Lawrence Field Office with the new National Director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Leon Rodriguez. Casa Dominicana In FY’16, LFDEF also began a relationship with Casa Dominicana, a community organization dedicated to providing ESL, Citizenship and cultural programming in the local Dominican community. In addition, to LFDEF, Inc. serving as the fiscal agent, the Quintana Center began providing curriculum support and naturalization services for Casa Dominicana students. I was born in Eritrea, Africa, and in 2010, I came to the United States. Since migrating from Eritrea, a small African country located just west of Ethiopia, I was able to obtain medical services at the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center. My dream was to become a U.S. citizen, but my English was not good enough. During my intake with the social worker, I expressed interest in learning English and was referred to the Quintana Center. My test scores placed me in Mr. Clark’s ESL class. He was very dynamic, very energetic and all the students welcomed me. In Mr. Clark’s class, everybody spoke English, which helped me a lot. My teacher always challenged me, and everyone in the class wanted me to accomplish my goal. IN MARCH OF 2016, WITH THE HELP OF MR. CLARK AND MRS. CEPEDA, ESAYAS BECAME A U.S. CITIZEN. HE IS NOW ABLE TO VISIT ERITREA AND HIS FAMILY AND IS WORKING ON BRINGING THEM HERE TO LIVE WITH HIM. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 10
Lawrence Family Development Charter School FY’16 was Lawrence Family Development Charter School’s (LFDCS) twenty‐first year operating as a Commonwealth public charter school. This year emphasized three major areas: 1) innovation in the classroom 2) interdisciplinary opportunities with LFDCS curriculum: planning to revise the STEM curriculum and partnerships 3) disseminating the charter school’s best practices across the Commonwealth Through the launch of Schoology (an internet‐based Learning Management System), teachers and students gained new 24/7 access to LFDCS curriculum which extended their teaching, learning and assessment opportunities. Interdisciplinary efforts were also enhanced by the opening of a new STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Center and the hiring of a STEM Coordinator. LFDCS continued into year two of its Lawrence Public Schools’ partnership and also granted access to video clips of LFDCS’ best teaching and SEI practices to members of the Massachusetts Charter School Association for their use in other urban classrooms. Other highlights of FY’16: Bequeathed $378,000 in scholarship funds from the Mr. R. Kingman Webster Trust Received gifts for interactive projectors in all first‐year kindergarten classrooms Added WiFi and 40 new Chromebooks to pilot “paperless” learning for grade 7 students Achieved Level 1 School status on MCAS testing for the 5th year in a row Reconfigured STEM learning goals with Quarrybrook Outdoor Learning Center (NECC) while beginning afterschool STEM activities with the Girl Scouts of America Graduated 61 students from grade 8 and 80 students from K‐2 LFDCS’ teaching with technology efforts are enhanced through the leadership of our Digital Instructor, Dr. June Kim. At the charter school’s June graduation ceremony, Dr. Kim was honored as a 2016 Outstanding Employee for her leadership of technology development for students’ use and for professional development of a LFDCS’teachers’ corps. Her efforts with innovative instructional practices leverage technology for dissemination of curriculum and sharing of SEI practices. In FY’ 2016, Dr. Kim and the LFDCS Leadership Team, launched Schoology providing teachers and students 24/7 access to curriculum —-thus extending teaching, learning and assessment opportunities. Early adoption of these new teaching practices, coupled with the school’s Level 1 curriculum, allow LFDCS to impact other urban classrooms, while providing our students “anywhere/anytime” learning opportunities. This work also benefits our partnership with Lawrence Public Schools, and Commonwealth-wide it benefits the MA Charter School Association's Communities of Practice. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 11
Lawrence Family Development Charter School STEM CENTER OPENING—FALL 2015 On Thursday, October 22, 2015, Lawrence Family Development Education Fund, Inc. and Lawrence Family Development Charter School celebrated the ribbon cutting for the new LFDCS STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Center. This event marked the official opening and unveiling of this beautiful building to donors, parents and community stakeholders. Attendees, in awe of the new facility, expressed gratitude to: Holt & Bugbee Foundation ‐ a family‐owned, sociallyresponsible company in Tewksbury and impressed by its Hispanic workforce. With a STEM Center donation, the company is eager to contribute to the workforce of tomorrow…… Mr. & Mrs. R. Kingman Webster ‐ who donated their STEM gift to fund some of the STEM Center’s technology resources…… Ms. Cynthia Alekel Mohr & Family – a close friend of Lawrence Family Development Charter School and one of the first donors to the STEM Center. Her gifts to the Center were made with love for the students of Lawrence where she was educated…… The Stevens Foundations – an ongoing supporter of Lawrence Family Development – the Foundation shows concern for creating opportunities for new immigrant populations in the Merrimack Valley…… Webster Family Fund of Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) – a Fund which invests in capital improvements. The funds awarded to Lawrence Family Development are from ECCF where Lawrence Family Development’s endowed high school scholarship fund is managed…... Lawrence Family Development Facilities Team ‐ attendees celebrated the tremendous skills and dedication of Lawrence Family Development’s Facilities staff members who labored many hours to create a fabulous STEM facility for the school community……. In addressing those gathered, the newly‐hired LFDCS STEM Coordinator, George Masterson, quoted Sir Isaac Newton: ʺIf I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.ʺ For the Fall Opening of the LFDCS STEM Center, student Ambassadors gave tours to benefactors, while also finding time to experiment with some of the new technology features of the Center. Students, faculty and guests marveled over the new 3D printer and flew one of the two drones available for student use. The STEM Center will be primarily used by students in the 5th through 8th grades. Student Ambassadors that participated in welcoming guests and providing tours were: 7th Grade - Arianna Munoz, Albert Reyes, Kasey Bisono and Kelvin Lopez, 8th Grade - Adrian Rodriguez, Shamil Diaz, Ashley Lara, and Samantha Hernandez. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 12
PFK Scholarship Funds The PFK Scholarship Endowment Fund The PFK Scholarship Endowment Fund ended the FY’16 year with a balance of $305,114.62. This endowed fund is invested at Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) where contributions and investments help it grow annually with an initial goal of raising $1,000,000 over ten years. The PFK Direct Scholarship Fund The PFK Direct Scholarship Fund raised money for the graduating Class of 2016 in many different ways: The LFDCS Scholars Fund included the hand-made picnic table raffle, Yankee Candle fundraiser, Movie Night, Central Catholic play night, High School Fair table registration fees and miscellaneous donations. The Frank Eccles Fund included student contributions on sports jersey days/jeans days, and the PFK Scholars Fund included miscellaneous donations, holiday donations and the proceeds from our annual fundraiser. This year’s “Meet Our Scholars…Who Reach for the Stars” annual fundraiser was held under the tent at The Stevens Estate on a perfect May evening. The event, co-chaired by Marisol Hilario and Joan Thompson, drew over 150+ guests and sought sponsors to help underwrite the cost of the evening and create broader awareness in the business community. Conlon Products, Shaheen Brothers, Holloway Automotive, Highland Street Foundation and many others helped make event sponsorship a huge success. Students from the Class of 2016 were on hand to greet guests and share their stories of academic success and perseverance. This preceded bidding on more than 50 silent and live auction items. Additional scholarships by individual donors also contributed significantly large gifts for our graduates. LFDCS GRADUATES (left to right): FIRST ROW: Brianne Lara, Jaylyn Medina , Franklin Utate SECOND ROW: Jensy Encarnacion, Owen Jacinto, Johan Nunez, Jonathan Castillo THIRD ROW: Christopher Jimenez and Jorge Cosme. Collectively, the 8th grade Class of 2016 earned over $1,500,000 in scholarships and financial aid to fouryear admissions-based high schools. Additionally, Lawrence Family Development Charter School works closely with the ABC (A Better Chance) organization. Of special note for the Class of 2016 is that ten of these graduates earned honors and five of these graduates earned high honors for their academic work in the eighth grade at Lawrence Family Development Charter School. THE LFDCS CLASS OF 2016 WILL BE ATTENDING THE FOLLOWING HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE FALL OF 2016 Abbott Academy at Lawrence High School, Andover High School, Brewster Academy, Central Catholic High School, Glastonbury High School (ABC Scholar), Greater Lawrence Technical High School, Lawrence High School, Methuen High School, Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School, Presentation of Mary Academy, Salem High School (NH), St. John's Preparatory High School, St. Mark's School (ABC Scholar), Tabor Academy (ABC Scholar), White Mountain School (ABC Scholar) and The Winchendon School. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 13
Preferred Provider for Targeted Assistance During FY’16, LFDEF, Inc. once again worked with the Lawrence Public Schools (LPS) as an approved School Turnaround Operator. LFDEF, Inc. and is in its second year of a three‐year agreement for the dissemination of education improvement services to low‐performing, underperforming and chronically‐underperforming school districts. LFDEF, Inc. manages a LPS early education school for families in the Tower Hill neighborhood of Lawrence. The Lawrence Family Public Academy offers a free, full‐day PreKindergarten (K‐1) and Kindergarten (K‐2) program for four and five year olds. To maximize dissemination, two employees from LFDCS are assigned to leadership roles in this project. Like LFDCS, the school prioritizes: Parent Engagement, Respect for Language & Culture, Effective Teaching and a Leadership Structure which includes parents. The LFPA overall enrollment for SY’2015‐2016 was 199 (K‐1: 75 students, K‐2: 124 students) Quarterly meetings are held with LPS to share best practices, data and plan projects for continuous improvement. High Priority efforts in FY’2016 were: Professional Development sessions to enhance classroom behavior/management Cross‐training of staff and assignment of teacher specialists, as available, to general education needsbased groups Worked with LPS to prioritize students in need of special education services in order to meet the learning and/or social/emotional needs of LFPA’s diverse special education population. RTI for progress monitoring is used to measure students’ progress with Letter Naming Fluency (LNF) and First Sound Fluency (FSF). Lawrence Public Family Academy (LFPA), which is a Lawrence Family Development dissemination project, prioritizes high standards and low student-to-teacher ratios. Pictured here are LFPA students with their classroom teacher and paraprofessional. LFDCS values reflective practice by its instructional staff. It shares this priority with its partnership projects by having a mentor coordinator and teacher mentors available for external coaching and sharing ideas. The informal format of this mentoring program allows for conversations and classroom visits which support all teachers in the development of a portfolio of best practices. This year, Lawrence Family Development brought its mentoring format to the LPS Lawrence Family Public Academy through a new peer-to-peer teachers’ mentoring program. This partnership allowed LFDCS’ early childhood teachers to work directly with LFPA early childhood teachers through coaching, socials for conversations about teaching and classroom visits with demonstrations of techniques. The end-of-the-year surveys about the experience from both LFDCS teacher-mentors and LFPA teachermentees who were involved in this project were positive. LFPA teachers expressed interest in a continuation of this effort for SY’2016-2017 as well as teachers’ introduction to Schoology, LFDCS’ Learning Management System. LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 14
LFDEF, Inc. FY’2015‐2016 Financial Report Revenue Grants Participant Fees Contributions LFDCS Management Fee Rental Income Other Total Revenue Expenses Personnel Expenses Program expenses Occupancy Interest expense Administration $1,887,960 $570,075 $202,522 $187,921 $350,466 $3,198,944 Operating Income Depreciation Decrease in Net Assets After Depreciation Increase (Decrease) in Unrestricted Net Assets $352,027 $423,744 ($71,717) ($71,717) $1,784,580 $35,646 $2,290 $513,091 $1,155,470 $59,894 $3,550,971 LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 15
LFDCS FY’2015‐2016 Financial Report Revenue Tuition Grants Participant Fees Contributions LPS Management Fee Food Service Other Total Revenue $8,983,637 $1,298,578 $180,407 $13,200 $225,820 $38,209 $8,918 $10,748,767 Expenses Personnel Expenses Program expenses Occupancy LFDEF Management Fee Administration $7,090,133 $827,108 $1,637,926 $448,758 $236,716 $10,240,641 Operating Income Depreciation $508,126 ($134,012) Increase in Net Assets $374,114 After Depreciation LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 16
LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATION FUND, INC. Executive Director Director of Finance Administrative Assistant Director of Program Development Technology Coordinator Maintenance Supervisor Accounts Payable/Procurement Officer Human Resources Manager Director of Alternative Youth Development Programs Coordinator of Career Counseling & Placement Dean of Students/Case Manager Program Operations Coordinator Coordinator of Academic Services Academic Instructor Food Services Coordinator Construction Manager Construction Supervisor AmeriCorps Program Coordinator Lawrence Youth Team Program Coordinator Lawrence Youth Team Intake Case Manager Lawrence Youth Team Transition Case Manager Lawrence Youth Team Street Worker Lawrence Youth Team Street Worker Lawrence Youth Team Street Worker Lawrence Youth Team Street Worker/ Construction Manager Lawrence Youth Team Community Liaison Manager, Family Center Office Assistant, Family Center Superintendent Assistant Superintendent Principal Special Education Director Head of Academy for Early Academic Preparation Head of Lower School Head of Upper School/Title 1 Coordinator RTI/ELL Coordinator Digital Instructor Food Services Director After School Coordinator Parent Liaison Administrative Assistant to the Principal LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT Ralph L. Carrero Susan Perry Susan Lyons Paul Heithaus Tony Schumann Luis Nigaglioni Kathy Moriconi Elizabeth Suriel‐Marra ALTERNATIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS April Lyskowsky Allishah Mohammed Albert Hayle Zulma Liriano Rebecca Lawrence Robyn Saba David Wilmer Greg Earls Domingo Corona Cathleen Jaffarian Edgar Caceres Tammy Cancel Jefte Santos Carlos Collazo Willy Rodriguez Osiris Gomez Alberto Carabello Joshua Alba MARIA DEL PILAR QUINTANA FAMILY CENTER Sandy Cepeda Yesenia Suazo LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT CHARTER SCHOOL Ralph L. Carrero Judith C. Marley, EdD Susan D. Earabino, EdD Janis Brodeur Erica Crescenzo Jennifer Fanning Stephanie Cole Hali Castleman June Kim Mary Claire Kennedy David Hildt Zori Davidovich Jamie Wu PAGE 17
Contributors (Foundations, Friends, Family Donors) 495 Truck and Auto Rafael Abislaiman Linda Adams Lizardo Alcantara Rita Almanzar Alekel Foundation Maria Alvarado The Amelia Peabody Foundation The Andover Inn Linda Annino Anton’s Cleaners Apex Computers Courtney & Jim Archambeault Julie & John Ardini Ash Trust Joanna & Lisandro Batistini Angel & Adiarys Battiata Gino Baroni Raquel Bauman Gina Berardi Julie Bernandin Boston Bruins Foundation Boston University James and Kathleen Boucher Janis Brodeur Tara Brown Marcia Burns-Mittler Butcher Boy CDW Government, Inc. Ralph & Ana Carrero Dale Cavanaugh Central Catholic High School Sandy Cepeda Marilu Cerezo The Charlotte Home Fund The Cheesecake Factory Childrens‘ Friend & Family Services Rosemarie & Paul Cogliano Stephanie & Michael Cole Jack & Ann Collins A. W. Chesterton City of Lawrence-CDBG Clipper Ship Foundation Richard & Maryellen Consoli Corporation for National & Community Service William & Penny Cox Lisa Coy Robert & Erica Crescenzo Tom & Patricia Cronin Stephanie Cross Justine & Robert Croteau Ethel Cruz & Carlos Espendez Cummings Foundation Stephen Curran Zori & George Davidovich Vivian Davidovich DeJesus Associates Brian DePena Marcos Devers Dalia Diaz & Alberto Suris John & Carol Dickison Sheila Doherty Linda Douglas Maureen Dunlevy Susan Earabino Eastern Bank Dave Edwards Elaine’s Pizza Enterprise Bank Benny and Mory Espaillat Essex County Com. Foundation Cindy Evans Jennifer & Kevin Fanning Anne Marie Faris Living Trust Larry & Kathy Feltz Tracy & Steven Filosa Genevieve Foley Vincent & Jeanne Foley Michael Fosburg & Patricia Skibbee Joanne Fournier Cynthia Frank The Furniture Trust Rosalia Gallo Leiddy Gil Eileen & Larry Giordano Cristy Gomez Joel & Yvette Gomez Dorothy & Edward Gorrie Chris & Martha Grant Barbara Grasso Emma Greene Ellen & Michael Guerin Linda Hacker Leah Harrington Angela & Michael Harty Haverhill Meat Company William & Linda Heineman Amie Hellauer Anne Hemmer Patricia Hemmer Kevin Herlihy Highland Street Foundation Marisol Hilario Paul & Anna Grace Holloway John Housianitis Susan Hoyt Courtney Inferrere Karen Irving Jackson Lumber & Millwork Cathleen Jaffarian Phyllis Jardine Brenda Jarrett Edward & Holly Jenkins Barbara Jenson Yolanda & Nelson Jimenez Jocelyn’s Restaurant Johnson and Matthes Russell & Patricia Karl Elizabeth Katz David Kay Chloe Kealey Mary Claire Kennedy June Kim Stephen King Fr. Joaquin Lally Marc & Susan Laplante Ted & Connie Lapres Fund LFDEF, INC FY’2015‐2016 ANNUAL REPORT Lawrence Downtown Parking Assoc. Lawrence General Hospital LFDCS School Site Council LFDEF, Inc. LifeTouch Zulma Liriano Susan & Robert Lloyd Itzel Lopez-Pantoja Susan Lyons April Lyskowsky Mann Orchards Manos Pizza Judith & Stephen Marley MA Dept. of Elem. & Sec. Education Massachusetts YouthBuild Coalition James Massman George Masterson William Masterson Juana Matias Pedro & Ana Matos The Maximus Foundation McKinnons Daniel and Julie McLaughlin Dana McPhee Ana Medina Merrimack Industrial Sales Merrimack Valley General Fund Merrimack Valley WIB MetroNorth REB McCarthy Trust Paul and Carol Miller Mifflin Family Foundation Cynthia Mohr Elizabeth Moore Moore Staffing Frank Moran Kathy Moriconi Jillian Morra Maritza Morrell Mike & Mary Jo Morris Tim Morris Moseley Foundation Moses Kimball Fund Morris, Rossi & Hayes Fred & Juliet Nagle Michael Nahill Pilar Naveo Chris & Janet Needham Robert Needham The New Balance Foundation Alberto Nunez Diane O’Donnell Jennifer Parisella Pavel Payano People’s United Bank Almarie Perez Susan Perry Phillips Academy-Andover Prelude Richard Purinton Spencer Purinton Quarrybrook Outdoor Learning Center Julie Raymond Renaissance Golf Club Milagros Reyes Lou Ricci Johan Rosario Laurence Rossi Russell Trust Miguelito Saldana Doug Salveson Joe & Judy Samuelman Rolando Sanchez Francisco Santiago Alexandra Santos Anthony Sapienza Cashel Scanlon Tony Schumann Shadi’s Restaurant Shaheen Bros. Inc. Fred Shaheen Shannon Grant John & Sharen Shaw III Gary Sidell Dario & Julia Silverio Joanne Smith Mr. & Mrs. Derek Smith Graciela & Victor Soto Beilis & Luisa Soto Gregory & Bonnie Spurr Stearns Trust Thomas Stepanski James Stergios The Stevens Foundation Yesenia Suazo Superior Cleaners & Taylors TD Banknorth The Furniture Trust Wendy Taylor & Bill Davy Sadie Tejado John & Joan Thompson Tripoli Pizza Bakery The Irish Cottage The Torrisi Family Kelly Townsend Maria Trigueros Leigh Tucker Tufts Health Plan United Way US Dept. of Labor USI Insurance Services, LLC Eunice Veit The Walmart Foundation Michael Walsh, CPA Kingman & Dee Webster Dean Webster Alexander & Anne White Whole Foods Market Alex Shea Will William Wood Foundation Pamela Yameen YouthBuild-Lawrence YouthBuild USA Barbara & Tony Zeimetz PAGE 18
LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATION FUND, INC. Tel: (978) 689-9863 x123 ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE: 34 West Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 Fax: (978) 689-8133 * * www.lfdef.org ALTERNATIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS Orange Wheeler House, 355 Haverhill Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 (978) 681-0548 MARIA DEL PILAR QUINTANA FAMILY CENTER 404 Haverhill Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 * (978) 794-5399 LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT CHARTER SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE: Tel: (978) 689-9863 34 West Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 * Fax: (978) 689-8133 * www.lfdcs.org Academy for Early Academic Preparation (K-1, K-2 & Grade 1), 10 Railroad Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 * (978) 258-6210 Lower School (Grades 2-4), 34 West Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 * (978) 689-9863 Upper School (Grades 5-8), 400 Haverhill Street Lawrence, MA 01841 * (978) 738-0609 LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT TURNAROUND OPERATOR FOR TARGETED ASSISTANCE TO UNDERPERFORMING MASSACHUSETTS PUBLIC SCHOOLS Lawrence Family Public Academy (K-1 & K-2), 526 Lowell Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 * (978) 975-5905
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