Global Learning Charter Public School
Overview
Global Learning Charter Public School (GLCPS) is a tuition-free public charter school located in New Bedford, Massachusetts, serving approximately 500 students in grades 5 through 12. The school admissions operate via a blind lottery system with the enrollment period starting on December 1 and concluding at the end of February. The institution is dedicated to fostering academic excellence within an inclusive and diverse setting, preparing students for success in a global community.
School Environment and Academic Excellence
GLCPS is distinguished for its rigorous academic programs and inclusive environment. It maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 11:1, ensuring a supportive and personalized educational experience. The school is proud of its 94% graduation rate and has secured $1.8 million in scholarships for its students. A commitment to integrating technology is evident in its 1:1 computer-to-student ratio. Additionally, GLCPS is participating in the "2024-2025 Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools (Energy CLASS) program," receiving federal funding to enhance energy efficiency.
Key Administrators and Staff
- Stephen Furtado Jr.
- Position: Executive Director
- Email: sfurtadojr@glcps.org
- Phone: 508-991-4105
- Background: Transitioned from Director of Business and Finance to Executive Director in July 2024. His leadership was instrumental in GLCPS being recognized among the top 3% of high schools nationwide.
- Lena Pires
- Position: Principal
- Email: lpires@glcps.org
- Phone: 508-991-4105
- Background: Served as Middle School Principal since 2011 and Principal since 2014. Her experience in engineering bolsters her educational leadership.
- Derek Michael
- Position: Director of Academics
- Email: dmichael@glcps.org
- Background: Appointed in 2024 with over 20 years of educational experience, he oversees the development and implementation of academic programs.
- Adonis Ferreira
- Position: Director of Student, Family and Community Life
- Email: aferreira@glcps.org
- Background: Manages the Enrollment Lottery Process and extracurricular initiatives, fostering community and family engagement.
Community Engagement and Programs
GLCPS actively promotes community involvement, offering initiatives such as a Father-And-Child program in collaboration with All Pro Dads and partnering in New Bedford’s Cape Verdean storytelling series. These programs enhance parental involvement and community ties.
Competitor Profiling
Competitors Overview
GLCPS operates within a competitive educational landscape alongside institutions such as Achievement First, Boston Prep, Martha's Vineyard Public Charter School, and Helen Y. Davis Leadership Academy. Each competitor offers distinctive educational models and programmatic features across Massachusetts and neighboring regions.
- Achievement First
- Operates charter schools in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island, emphasizing equitable education for all students. Their annual reports highlight a strong trajectory in college readiness and leadership development.
- Boston Prep
- Located in Hyde Park, MA, Boston Prep caters to grades 6 through 12, emphasizing college preparation. Unique offerings include international travel opportunities and dedicated diversity-focused initiatives for staff and students.
- Martha's Vineyard Public Charter School
- Provides a project-based curriculum in West Tisbury, MA, to K-12 students, with the added prestige of being an accredited IB World School. Their approach accentuates personalized education and lifelong learning.
- Helen Y. Davis Leadership Academy
- This Boston-based academy focuses on middle school students, aiming to develop positive academic identities within the Black community. Their approach includes maintaining a low student-teacher ratio to promote emotional and educational growth.
Conclusion
Global Learning Charter Public School's distinctive focus on inclusivity, rigorous academics, and community engagement sets it apart in a crowded educational space. The administrators, led by Stephen Furtado Jr., bring a wealth of experience and strategic vision that positions GLCPS as a leader in facilitating student success within the culturally rich and diverse setting of New Bedford.
