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Upper School | Grades 5-8
The Upper School is located at 400 Haverhill Street, Lawrence MA. There are four classrooms per grade level.
Integrated within the school day are programs designed to build essential skills for high academic achievement. These opportunities promote enrichment and holistic development, fostering the growth of the whole child.
All students study the following academic subjects daily: English Language Arts (including reading, writing, grammar), Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish. Students also partake in Music, Art, Social/Emotional Learning, Health, and Physical Education.
LFDCS ensures students are ready for the high school transition. Please click through below for additional information:
Opening Doors
LFDCS invests in our graduates’ futures through the Opening Doors program, guiding students in grades 5–8 and their families through the high school transition process. Secondary School Coordinators provide SSAT prep workshops, facilitate partnerships with private secondary schools and youth organizations, and connect students to after-school and summer enrichment programs in areas like journalism, robotics, fine arts, and theater.
Students receive personalized support with applications, essays, and interviews, with activities beginning in early fall of eighth grade. A High School Fair offers direct access to top schools, leading to over 50% of graduates gaining acceptance into prestigious institutions such as Phillips Academy, Deerfield Academy, Central Catholic, Concord Academy, and Greater Lawrence Technical High School.
Post-graduation, Secondary School Coordinators track alumni progress, organize reunions, and foster connections. Alumni contribute by speaking at events, serving on the Board of Trustees, and supporting future graduates, reinforcing a lifelong connection to LFDCS.
Grade 8 Team Building Day
At the start of each school year, LFDCS organizes a special team-building day for grade 8 students in place of academic classes. This program introduces students to their grade-level teaching team through “outward bound” leadership challenges.
These activities foster trust, friendships, and self-awareness while promoting teamwork among students and teachers. The goal is to emphasize the importance of communication, collaboration, and mutual respect from the very first day, helping students build a strong foundation for success throughout the year.
Graduation Requirements
Please visit the Student-Parent Handbook, linked here, for complete details on the requirements to receive a graduation diploma from eighth grade and transition to high school.
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