LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT, INC. Strengthening families . . . building community . . . FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS PRESIDENT (interim) VICE PRESIDENT TREASURER CLERK Rafael Abislaiman Rafael Abislaiman Gregory Spurr Ana Medina FY’ 2016-2017 DIRECTORS Raquel Bauman, EdD Ethel Cruz Jose Cruz Rosalia Gallo Anne Hemmer Marisol Hilario Mona Igram EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Ralph L. Carrero Pavel Payano Kretcha Roldan Simmee Silton John Sullivan, PhD Wendy Taylor Joan Thompson
From the Chair On behalf of the Board of Directors, administration, staff, students and families that are served through all of Lawrence Family Development, Inc.’s (LFD) programs, we present this Annual Report which covers July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017. This Fiscal Year 2017 Annual Report reflects our unwavering commitment to our mission: strengthening families and building community. Our major strategic accomplishments this year included: The adoption of our name to Lawrence Family Development, Inc. (LFD, Inc.). The implementation of a new Content Management System to assure productivity across programs. Approval of a formal succession plan to prepare for future (planned or emergency) departures of senior management. Financial tracking and technology efficiencies were implemented including cost-effective structures for all jobs, classification of employees to exempt or non-exempt based on job responsibilities, and new Easy Clocking and Harper’s Payroll procedures. The re-confirmation of Lawrence Family Development Inc.’s status as a Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)-recognized agency for citizenship services. The introduction of summer ESL and Citizenship sessions at the Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center. The launching of a community workshop series with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office on residential, financial and consumer issues. Consolidation of the Alternative Youth programming under the new SISU Program umbrella to be housed at a new Canal Street site. The breaking ground of a new YouthBuild-Lawrence house on Jackson Street in Lawrence. An additional partnership for FY’18 with the Lawrence Public School’s RISE Academy to incorporate their academics as a component to the Lawrence Family Development Inc.’s SISU Center. Re-approval by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as a Massachusetts Targeted Assistance and School Turnaround Operator until FY’20. For the third consecutive year, as a School Turnaround project, shared charter school innovative practices with the Lawrence Public Schools’ Lawrence Family Public Academy (LFPA). The Lawrence Family Development Charter School ranked as a Level 1 School for the fifth year in a row, based on Spring 2016 results; only 20% of districts and 32% of public schools across Massachusetts earned Level 1 status in 2016. LFDCS expanded dissemination to include staff presentations at National Conferences, as well as local presentations of RTI practices with nearly forty Massachusetts charter school leaders. LFDCS expanded use of the STEM Center for in-school and after-school instruction using multiple new activities for project-based learning. After School programs included a new STEM-focused Girl Scout program as well as new robotics and engineering efforts with the Latino STEM Alliance. Fifty-five members of LFDCS’ 2017 graduating class were awarded over $1,730,000 in scholarships and financial aid to some of New England’s most prestigious private secondary high schools. We hope that the highlights found in this 2016-2017 Annual Report prompt readers and the Board of Directors to share my satisfaction for the future of LFD, Inc. and its impact. 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 we build a new Strategic Plan in FY’18 and incorporate organizational growth as a Community Development Corporation. Sincerely, Rafael Abislaiman, Interim President and Vice President
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, now known as Lawrence Family Development Inc., qualified for funding to help launch several new and promising pilot projects in community education and leadership development. 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 LFD, Inc. SISU Youth 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 LFD, 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, Lawrence Family Development, Inc. (LFD) 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, LFD, 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’2016-2017 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-third 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, LFD, 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 LFD, 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. LFD, 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 school year 2016-2017 Lawrence Family Development Charter School (LFDCS), now in its fifth five-year charter, enrolled 714 students from early Kindergarten through grade eight and graduates many of its students to private-independent, admissionsbased 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) which includes: Parent Engagement, Dual Language, Effective Teaching, 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’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 2 LFDEF, Inc. receives Lawrence Family Development Charter School opens as one of Massachusetts first 14 charter schools 1995 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 LFD, 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 and have currently raised 3/4 quarters of our goal of the $1M. 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 ” 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, LFD, 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, LFD, 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 the LFD, Inc. Facilities Department. In FY’16, a STEM Center was built at the West Street campus. In the fall of 2014, LFD 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 LFD, Inc.’s SISU Youth Development Program. To house this expanding work, LFD, Inc. entered into a lease for a property at 417 Canal Street in Lawrence. After extensive renovations, the SISU Youth Center is expected to open in early FY’18. 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 and now renewed until 2020, LFD, Inc. is 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. At the end of FY’17, LFD, Inc. received reauthorization as a Preferred Provider/Turnaround Operator, renewed the contract for Lawrence Family Public Academy and entered into an expanded contract with LPS to provide social-emotional supports for LPS’s RISE Academy. Academy for Early Academic Preparation Opens 2012 2007 LFD, Inc. establishes PFK Scholarship Funds LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT LFD, Inc. asked to take over management of Lawrence Youth Team and SSYI Program. LFDCS successfully re-chartered. 2014 LFD , Inc. becomes approved Targeted Assistance Turnaround Operator for Massachusetts schools LFD, Inc. consolidates Alternative Youth Programs into the SISU program 2016 2015 LFD begins work on the SISU Center PAGE 3 FY’18
FY’17 Programs and Outcomes The five major components of the Lawrence Family Development and Education Fund, Inc. are: YouthBuild-Lawrence, AmeriCorps, SSYI/Lawrence Youth Team FY’2017 OUTCOMES: Alternative Youth Programs Alternative Youth Development Programs 123 Young Adult Lives Impacted 46 YouthBuild-Lawrence Participants 30 YouthBuild-Lawrence Graduates 77 Youth Team Members 16 GED/HiSET Certificates* Citizenship and ESL Classes for adults FY’2017 OUTCOMES: Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center 180 individuals completed program 150 students completed ESL classes 61% students showed improvement K-1 through Grade 8 public charter school FY’2017 OUTCOMES: Lawrence Family Development Charter School 716 students enrolled 85% students in grades 6,7,8 at or above benchmark on Spring ELA & Math L-Fast 85% 2017 graduates accepted at admissionsbased high school 31 students completed Citizenship classes 33 immigrant/refugees completed Citizenship application process 23 new United States citizens 96% parents rated school as satisfactory or above on annual parent survey; response rate 90% ! 5th year in a row for LFDCS to be rates as a “level 1” MCAS Massachusetts district 90% parents attended “Right from the Start” parents training In K-1. Endowment and Direct Scholarships for LFDCS graduates FY’2017 OUTCOMES: PFK Scholarship Funds $37,501 was raised at the “Meet the Scholars... Who Reach for the Stars” fundraiser for the PFK Direct Scholarship Fund 62 graduates and alumni from the Classes of 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 received scholarships from LFD, Inc. totaling $80,555 $1.73M in scholarships and financial aid was awarded to the Class of 2017 over 4 years Lawrence Family Public Academy (K-1 & K-2) FY’2017 OUTCOMES: Turnaround Operator For Targeted Assistance 67 students enrolled in K-1 92% K-1 students at or above benchmark on DIBELS Letter Naming Fluency and First Sound Fluency 104 students enrolled in K-2 92% LFPA parents attended the K-2 Poetry & Art Show 39 participants completing employment training program 17 unsubsidized job placements 19 professional certifications 4 LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 4
Alternative Youth Development Program Lawrence Youth Team (LYT) FY’17 was a year of transition for LFD’s Alternative Youth Development Program. In a move to reduce redundancy and share costs, much of FY’17 was spent strategically merging the Lawrence Youth Team and YouthBuild - Lawrence under one umbrella. SISU In addition to the merger, the Alternative Youth Development Program underwent a rebranding effort. Finding inspiration in selected readings, the program came together under the name SISU. "SISU is a unique Finnish concept. It stands for the philosophy that what must be done will be done, regardless of what it takes. SISU is a special strength and persistent determination and resolve to continue and overcome in the moment of adversity…an almost magical quality, a combination of stamina, perseverance, courage and determination held in reserve for hard times.” We believe that SISU represents each of our young people and the qualities they demonstrate on a daily basis. Project Adventure Merging the Alternative Youth Development programs involved much more than combining resources and space. The real work was creating a culture and a shared mission and understanding. To help facilitate a smooth transition, Project Adventure designed and conducted a series of transformative training workshops for both staff and participants. Project Adventure provided 25 hours of programming over a three-month period and helped establish a culture that will not only guide the transition into the SISU Center but will also shape Lawrence Family Development’s Alternative Youth Programming into the future. Nicholas came to the Lawrence Youth Team a little over 2 years ago. He had dropped out of high school and was associated with several active gang members. He was also taking care of his mom, who was battling cancer. While in the program, Nicholas spent time working at the Bellevue Cemetery, as part of the LFDCS summer crew, and as part of the original SISU work crew. Nicholas was also pursuing his HiSET at the Lawrence Adult Learning Center. In early FY’17, with the help of his LYT Case Manager, he passed his driving test and in the early Spring, he started a full-time job at Dunkin Donuts. Recently, after months of perseverance and hard work, Nicholas completed his HiSET. He has also left Dunkin Donuts and is working full time for a local landscaping company. In January, he will begin a training course for his Commercial Drivers License through Valley Works, widening his career opportunities. Nicholas continues to engage with the SISU staff and program participants. A quiet force, Nicholas is a role model for his peers in the program and a true success story for Lawrence Family Development. LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 7
Alternative Youth Development Programs Canal Street Project During FY’17, members of the Lawrence Family Development SISU program continued work on the SISU Alternative Youth Development Center. The work crew, primarily composed of Lawrence Youth Team members, ushered in the new fiscal year learning masonry, hardwood floor repair and basic plumbing. With volunteer support from Kohl’s, Comcast and USI Insurance and product support from Home Depot, the walls went up, and what had been just a vision started to become a reality. The young people who put their blood sweat and tears into the project began to feel ownership for the building and the dream. In September of 2017, many of those same young people will begin education, social-emotional and workforce development programming in the space built. To learn more about the Center, visit www.lawrenceyouth.org. This Vacant Lot After Lawrence Family Development , Inc. sold the YouthBuild-Lawrence house at 165 West Street, ground was broken for the next house at 211 Jackson Street, and the students in YouthBuild-Lawrence Cycle 21 began the construction training component of the program. For many of these young people, YouthBuild-Lawrence is their first experience working with construction. They spent hours in the rain and the heat learning about wood and tools. They also begin to learn more about themselves and their peers and discover new strengths as well as some fears. They make new friends and develop a new respect for the adults working alongside them. In FY’17, with support from the Maximus Foundation, Lawrence Family Development launched a web series called This Vacant Lot to document the construction of the Jackson Street house. The web series follows the Cycle 21 students over the course of their construction time with YouthBuild-Lawrence. Five episodes are currently available at www.lfdef.org. LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 8
Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center FY’17 was a year of transitions at the Maria del Pilar Quintana Center. In January, the Quintana Center Manager, Mrs. Sandra Cepeda, retired from her position. To replace Sandy, Ms. Zulma Liriano, a long-time employee of YouthBuild-Lawrence was hired as Center Manager. LFD, Inc. began introducing some different subject areas into the Center programming. LFD, Inc. opened a second computer lab in the Center to provide greater access to technology. Despite these changes, the Quintana Center provided over 350 class slots this fiscal year. Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office FY’17 offered an opportunity for new partnerships. In May, the Quintana Center and Attorney General Maura Healey’s Community Outreach Division presented the first in a series of consumer and resident-focused educational workshops. These workshops are intended to strengthen LFD, Inc.’s mission of Strengthening Families and Building Community by providing members of the Lawrence community with the resources to protect their families and their assets from economic predatory behaviors. Financial Literacy Continuing with new partnerships, LFD, Inc. and Enterprise Bank teamed up in the fall to present a Financial Literacy series at the Quintana Center. Like the Attorney General’s Office partnership, these workshops provided community members with the tools to manage their finances in today’s economy. Board of Immigration Appeals Certification The Quintana Center ‘s Recognition as a Board of Immigration Appeals Approved Agency reflects the quality of LFD, Inc.’s citizenship services. During FY’17, the Quintana Center received renewed recognition as a BIA recognized organization. After 12 years as Manager of the Maria del Pial Quintana Center, Mrs. Sandra Cepeda locked her office door for the last time and retired in February of 2017. Mrs. Cepeda was hired as the Quintana Center Manager by the original Executive Director, Mrs. Patricia Karl, and oversaw the Center’s growth. During her time as Manager, the Quintana Center moved from its original location at 34 West Street into its current home at 404 Haverhill Street. As Manager of the Citizenship and Naturalization program, Mrs. Cepeda helped Lawrence Family Development Inc. become a Board of Immigration Appeals recognized agency, and she became the only Board of Immigration Appeals Certified representative in the Merrimack Valley. Mrs. Cepeda strengthened LFD, Inc.’s relationships with Massachusetts Immigration and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA) and the Lawrence office of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Mrs. Cepeda is personally responsible for helping hundreds of Lawrencians navigate the Naturalization process and become United States citizens. During FY’17, the Quintana Center welcomed 23 clients as new American Citizens; including Mr. Siri, pictured above, who became our oldest client sworn-in by USCIS. LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 10
Lawrence Family Development Charter School FY’17 was Lawrence Family Development Charter School District’s (LFDCS) twenty-second year operating as a Commonwealth public charter school. This year, LFDCS focused heavily on its dissemination and technology integration efforts in three significant ways: Saturday Academy— new blended learning pilot project Lawrence Family Public Academy— introduction of Schoology via intensive professional development offerings National Conference Presentations— dissemination to national audiences in new “Train the Trainer” formats for implementing digital learning, as well as a high-quality RTI (Response to Intervention) program As part of Saturday Academy in early 2017, new models of blending learning were explored for 5th and 6th grade students. This pilot project used 1:1 technology in a rotation-based format, which emphasized projectlearning. The pilot project yielded positive feedback from both students and teachers. LFDCS completed year three of its Lawrence Public Schools’ partnership. This year reflected new aspects of collaboration. Most importantly, Lawrence Family Public Academy (LFPA) adopted, via intensive professional development of teachers, Schoology, the online learning management system used by LFDCS. Schoology allows for effective and efficient sharing of curriculum between LFDCS and the Lawrence Public Schools. Two members of the school traveled to the EdMedia conference in June 2017 where they presented on LFDCS’ use of Schoology to enhance learning in grades 5-8 and three members of the school traveled to the National Charter School Conference to share RTI methods. Other highlights of FY’17 Added 191 new Chromebooks for all Upper School students (grades 5-8) to use 1:1 devices for instruction Achieved Level 1 School status on MCAS testing for the 5th year in a row (two students earned the first ever perfect scores on the Science MCAS) Expanded use of the new STEM Center by offering STEM-focused Girl Scouts and robotics and engineering with the Latino STEM Alliance Graduated 55 students from grade 8 and 82 students from K-2 LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 11 LFDCS’ takes pride in its Response to Intervention (RTI) process, which it uses to effectively measure and support all students’ progress. This year LFDCS worked with the Massachusetts Charter Public School Association (MCPSA) to offer workshops about the RTI process. Nearly forty Massachusetts charter school leaders attended these workshops, held at LFDCS, where they were able to see the RTI process in action. LFDCS continued its partnership with Lawrence Public Schools through the Lawrence Family Public Academy (LFPA). This included adopting a common benchmarking assessment, NWEA’s MAP. The Lead Teachers at LFPA worked with the RTI Coordinator to ensure faithfulness to interventions based on RTI results. These results and interventions were tracked through the shared learning management system, Schoology. Lastly, three members of the LFDCS team were invited to present at the National Charter School Conference in Washington, D.C. in June 2017. The team held a wellattended two and a half hour workshop on the RTI process.
PFK Scholarship Funds The PFK Scholarship Endowment Fund The PFK Scholarship Endowment Fund ended the FY’17 year with a balance of $757,796.94. 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 major contribution this year was made from the estate of Mr. R. Kingman Webster. The PFK Direct Scholarship Fund The PFK Direct Scholarship Fund raised money for the graduating Class of 2017 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 LFD, Inc. Directors and Co-Chairs of the PFK Scholarship Fundraising Committee, Rose Gallo 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, Jackson Lumber, Highland Street Foundation and many others helped make event sponsorship a huge success. Students from the Class of 2017 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. The LFDCS Graduating Class of 2017 earned over $1,730,000 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 which assists with the high school placements of talented students. This national organization is based on the ABC mission of “opening the door to educational opportunities for thousands of young people of color.” High schools from which LFDCS’ 2017 graduates received scholarships and/or are planning to attend in the fall are: Abbott Lawrence Academy, Berkshire Academy (ABC), Brewster Academy, Cambridge School of Weston (ABC), Central Catholic High School, Governor's Academy, Greater Lawrence Technical School, Haverhill High School, Lawrence High School, Methuen High School, Miss Hall’s School, Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School, Phillips Academy Andover, Presentation of Mary Academy, St. John's Preparatory School, Westport Community Schools (ABC), Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School, Wilbraham & Monson Academy, and Winchester Community School ABC. LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 13
Preferred Provider for School Turnaround During FY’17, LFD, Inc. once again worked with the Lawrence Public Schools (LPS) as an approved Massachusetts School Turnaround Operator, disseminating best practices of Lawrence Family Development Charter School. As an early education program for families of the Tower Hill neighborhood of Lawrence, Lawrence Family Public Academy (LFPA) offers a free, full-day Pre-Kindergarten (K1) and Kindergarten (K-2) program for four and five year olds. To maximize dissemination, two lead teachers from LFDCS are assigned to leadership roles in this project. High Priority efforts in FY’2017 which were: Increasing parent engagement is done through various workshops, afterschool activities and via the Parent Teacher Organization Strengthening instruction for all students through Universal Design for Learning and the Response to Intervention Process Parent engagement is a critical part of the mission of both Lawrence Family Development, Inc. and LFPA; therefore, in FY’17 the parent liaison and staff worked to increase parent participation and engagement. This included hosting Open Houses, Literacy Night, Math Night, Health & Wellness Night, K-1 Poetry Day, Paint Night and the K-2 Poetry & Art Show. Parent attendance at these events increased this year— specifically, 42% of parents attended the K-2 Poetry & Art Show in FY’16 as compared to 92% in FY’17, which reflected an impressive 50% increase! LFPA teachers continued to work to improve lesson plans and curriculum using comprehensive design for learning techniques. These lesson plans are shared using the LFDCS Learning Management System, Schoology. Additionally, the RTI process was implemented with fidelity, especially thanks to the support of the lead teachers and LFDCS mentors. This led to high performance in K-1 and K-2 as shown below. Both grade levels out-performed their scores from 2015-2016. 100 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 LNF FSF PSF LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT NWF PAGE 14 Lawrence Public Family Academy (LFPA), which is a Lawrence Family Development dissemination project, prioritizes family engagement. Pictured here are LFPA students and their parents at a 2017 Paint Night Fundraiser. This year, Lawrence Public Schools’ LFPA welcomed two new Lead Teachers from LFDCS: Lisana Alexander and Jackie McCord. These two veteran teachers brought a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the Lead Teacher role. Lisana Alexander has taught for fifteen years. She is certified in Elementary and Early Childhood (with and without disabilities) and has earned a Master’s Degree. Her experience includes Professional Development in all areas of curriculum, behavior management, CPR and First Aid. In FY’17, Lisana led the K-1 Team at LFPA. Through the use of Schoology, other forms of technology, literature, songs, hands-on activities, and team planning, the K-1 team started the year with only 22% of students at benchmark and by the end of FY’17 , over 90% of K-1 students were at benchmark. 2016 2017 Jackie McCord taught preschool and kindergarten for 13 years before joining LFDCS as a first and second grade teacher. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (with and without disabilities). She is now pursuing a Master’s Degree, as well as an ESL teacher’s license. This year, Jackie led the K-2 Team at LFPA as they implemented Schoology and increased expectations and rigor for all students. K-2 LFPA students began the year with less than half of the students at benchmark. However, at year-end 85% of K-2 students were at or above benchmark.
LFD, Inc. FY’2016-2017 Financial Report Revenue Grants Participant Fees Contributions LFDCS Management Fee Rental Income Other Total Revenue Expenses Personnel Expenses Program expenses Occupancy Interest expense Administration $1,996,102 $26,948 $0 $779,417 $1,155,470 $75,172 $4,034,688 $1,862,736 $911,594 $365,970 $240,844 $171,708 $3,552,853 Operating Income Depreciation Decrease in Net Assets After Depreciation Increase (Decrease) in Unrestricted Net Assets $481,836 $483,506 ($1,670) ($1,670) LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 15
LFDCS FY’2016-2017 Financial Report Revenue Tuition Grants Participant Fees Contributions LPS Management Fee Food Service Other Total Revenue Expenses Personnel Expenses Program expenses Occupancy LFDEF Management Fee Administration $9,001,285 $1,260,994 $201,745 $13,200 $221,965 $36,262 $9,063 $10,731,314 $6,959,290 $1,049,859 $1,552,467 $500,400 $301,001 $10,363,017 Operating Income Depreciation Increase in Net Assets After Depreciation $368,297 ($110,428) $257,870 LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 16
Contributors (Foundations, Friends, Family Donors) 114 Liquors - Luis Perez Rafael Abislaiman Craig Allard Rita Almanzar Alekel Foundation The Amelia Peabody Foundation The Andover Inn Linda Annino Apex Computers Courtney & Jim Archambeault Julie & John Ardini Molten Babylon Gino Baroni Raquel Bauman Julie Bernandin & Dutchy Elizabeth Blanchard Boston Bruins Foundation Borreli’s Italian Deli Boston University Lance & Helen Bozart Sharon Brochard James and Kathleen Boucher Brakebush Brothers Janis Brodeur Tara Brown Cathleen Burke Marcia Burns-Mittler Butcher Boy Catherine Buxton Ana Cabrera Jesucita Caceras Angel Cancelo CDW Government, Inc. Ralph & Ana Carrero Lindsay Cavanaugh Sandi & Wayne Canella Central Catholic High School Marilu Cerezo Richard Chavez Choice Fitness Methuen Marjorie Chiafery Childrens‘ Friend & Family Services Stephanie & Michael Cole Corina Cornejo City of Lawrence-CDBG Clipper Ship Foundation Robert & Erica Crescenzo Margaret Crockett Justine & Robert Croteau Collette & J. Richard Crowley Ethel Cruz & Carlos Espendez Cummings Foundation Stephen Curran Zori & George Davidovich DeJesus Associates Brian DePena Claritza Diaz Doggone PurrFect Pet Salon Dolce Freddo Gelato John & Carol Dickison Linda Douglas Mary Driscoll Susan & Robert Earabino Dave Edwards Elaine’s Pizza Enterprise Bank Essencia Spa and Salon Carmen Estrada Essex County Com. Foundation Cindy Evans Eileen Everett Jennifer & Kevin Fanning Anne Marie Faris Yolanda Ferreyra Larry & Kathy Feltz Ann Fitzpatrick Estate of Genevieve Foley Vincent & Jeanne Foley Michael Fosburg & Patricia Skibbee Cheryl Foster Joanne Fournier Cynthia Frank The Furniture Trust Rosalia Gallo Robin Gendron Maria German Eileen & Larry Giordano Girl Scouts of America Good Day Cafe Alejandra Gomez Robert & Colleen Gossett Great NH Restaurant Group Emma Greene Ellen & Michael Guerin Marie & George Habib Angela & Michael Harty Heavenly Donuts William & Linda Heineman Anne Hemmer Patricia Hemmer Leonor Hernandez Highland Street Foundation Marisol Hilario Home Depot Store #2685 Arthur & Lisa Housianitis John Housianitis Mona Igram Infinity Tapes Jackson Lumber & Millwork Edward & Holly Jenkins Barbara Jenson Russell & Patricia Karl Christine Kay June Kim Kohl’s Corporation Diane & Peter Lafond Fr. Joaquin Lally Roger LaPointe Ted & Connie Lapres Fund Latino STEM Alliance Lawrence Downtown Parking Assoc. LFDCS School Site Council LFDCS School Staff LifeTouch Augustina Lopez Susan Lyons April Lyskowsky Mann Orchards Manos Pizza Judith & Stephen Marley MA Dept. of Elem. & Sec. Education Massachusetts YouthBuild Coalition Manzueta Walkira James Massman Juana Matias Pedro & Ana Matos The Maximus Foundation Frank & Joan McCarthy Daniel and Julie McLaughlin Dana McPhee Ana Medina Karen Melanson Lorie Mendoza Dario & Mirna Mercado Mirna Mondovo Merrimack Industrial Sales Merrimack Valley General Fund Linda Mesler Elsa Morales Maritza Morrell LFDEF, INC FY’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 18
Contributors cont. (Foundations, Friends, Family Donors) Linda Mesler Elsa Morales Maritza Morrell MassCue Paul and Carol Miller Mifflin Family Foundation Cynthia Mohr Frank Moran Kathy Moriconi Moseley Foundation Moses Kimball Fund Morris, Rossi & Hayes Fred & Juliet Nagle Michael Nahill The New Balance Foundation Notre Dame Christo Rey High School Alberto Nunez Diane O’Donnell Shawna Ortega Miguel & Itzel Pantoja Parent- Anonymous Pavel Payano People’s United Bank David Penn Eligio & Augustina Perdomo Yokasta Perez Susan Perry Valerie Petrillo Phillips Academy-Andover Pfeifer Matching Gift Michelle Phillips Glenda Portollo Richard Purinton Spencer Purinton Primos Liquors- Jose Cespedes Quarrybrook Outdoor Learning Center Renaissance Golf Club Ana Restiliajo Lou Ricci Kretcha & Rady Roldan Carmen Rosario Eliizer Rosario Deb Rosser Mary Ann Ruma Sadies for Hair, Linda Gamache Alexandra Santos Anthony Sapienza Shadi’s Restaurant Shaheen Bros. Inc. Fred Shaheen Shannon Grant Terrance Schiavone John & Sharen Shaw III Dario & Julia Silverio Beatriz Schinness Richard & Simmee Silton Melissa Smith Mr. & Mrs. Derek Smith Marianne & Stephen Spinney Beilis & Luisa Soto Gregory & Bonnie Spurr Kevin Stiles The Stevens Foundation Richard & Lolli Sumberg Superior Cleaners & Taylors Katerina Taveras Jesus Suriel (Enterprise Bank) TD Banknorth The Furniture Trust The Party Connection Tenaris Tire- Brian DePena John & Joan Thompson Tripoli Pizza Bakery The Butterfly Place The Common Man The Torrisi Family Trader Joe’s Tufts Health Plan United Way US Dept. of Labor USI Insurance Services, LLC Verizon Wireless Angel Vidal Vogel Printing Michael Walsh, CPA Kingman & Dee Webster West Village Provision General Store & Eatery Alexander & Anne White Whole Foods Market Alex Shea William & Clare Wood William Wood Foundation David Xisto Pamela Yameen YouthBuild-Lawrence YouthBuild USA
LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT, 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 Program Operations Coordinator Dean of Students Coordinator of Academic Services Academic Instructor Food Services Coordinator Construction Manager Construction Manager Construction Trainer Transition Specialist Intake Case Manager Transition Case Manager Street Outreach Worker Street Outreach Worker Street Outreach Worker Street Outreach Worker Street Outreach Worker Ralph L. Carrero Susan Perry Susan Lyons Paul Heithaus Tony Schumann Luis Nigaglioni Kathy Moriconi Elizabeth Suriel-Marra ALTERNATIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS April Lyskowsky Zulma Liriano/Diana Gonzalez Albert Hayle Rebecca Lawrence Robyn Saba Angie Jimenez Greg Earls Alberto Carabello Domingo Corona/Christian Acosta Edgar Caceres Tammy Cancel Jefte Santos Carlos Collazo Willy Rodriguez Osiris Gomez Angel Vasquez Steven Martinez MARIA DEL PILAR QUINTANA FAMILY CENTER Manager, Family Center Office Assistant, Family Center Superintendent Sandy Cepeda/Zulma Liriano Nelly Lopez LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT CHARTER SCHOOL Ralph L. Carrero 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’2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT Judith C. Marley, EdD Susan D. Earabino, EdD Janis Brodeur Erica Crescenzo Jennifer Fanning Stephanie Cole Hali Castleman June Kim Justin Smith David Hildt Zori Davidovich Jamie Wu PAGE 17
LAWRENCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT, 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: 34 West Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 Tel: (978) 689-9863 * 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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