Haverhill spends more per student than many top-ranked private schools — $18,421.44 per student in 2022 and $19,605.28 in 2023 — yet our school outcomes remain inconsistent. Standardized test performance varies widely from school to school, and graduation rates don’t always reflect readiness for college or the workforce.

Recent changes at the state level have eliminated the requirement for municipalities to follow standardized testing mandates, placing full control — and full responsibility — on local school systems. This is both a challenge and a golden opportunity.

Current concerns include:

Mismatch Between Spending and Results: High investment without proportional improvement.

One-Size-Fits-All Classrooms: Students who excel and those who struggle are often in the same environment, which limits growth for both groups.

Limited Career Preparation: Not all students are on a college track, yet alternatives like trade skills and vocational training are underdeveloped.

Management Inefficiencies: Resources are not always allocated to where they have the greatest impact.

A school system that challenges every student at their own pace, prepares graduates for both college and careers, and manages resources efficiently so that taxpayer investments result in measurable gains.

Comprehensive Performance Audit

- Examine curriculum effectiveness, staffing, administrative overhead, and program results.

- Identify high-performing programs to expand and underperforming areas to reform or replace.

Tiered Learning Structure

- Group students by ability and mastery, ensuring they are consistently challenged.

- Provide mobility between tiers so students can move up as they improve.

Career & Technical Education Pathways

- Partner with Northern Essex Community College, local trade unions, and businesses to create career-ready tracks.

- Expand opportunities for internships, apprenticeships, and certifications before graduation.

Mentorship & Support Programs

- Recruit retired teachers, community volunteers, and college students to mentor struggling students.

- Offer after-school tutoring focused on both academic skills and life skills.

Accountability Measures

- Tie administrative and educator evaluations to student growth metrics.

- Publish annual “School Report Cards” for public review.