LEAD Charter School is New Jersey's first disconnection prevention and recovery charter high school specifically serving young people 16-21 years old who are not participating in school or the workforce.
Earn your diploma and career certifications—all tuition-free.
As a YouthBuild school, LEAD combines the best research on education with proven youth workforce development programs, creating an experience built for exactly who you are and where you want to go.
A Diploma and a Head Start
At LEAD, students don't just earn a high school diploma — they graduate with an industry-recognized certification and real-world skills in one of two career pathways. No experience required. Just the drive to build something.
Construction
Trades
Hands-on training in plumbing, electrical, and carpentry — plus real experience on active worksites rehabilitating homes right here in Newark.
Allied
Health
Explore the growing healthcare field with hands-on training across multiple disciplines — and graduate ready to step into a healthcare career or pursue further education.
Earn Your Diploma.
Build Your Skills.
Launch Your Future.
Who We Are
- A school community with the unwavering belief in the power of young people to transform their lives and their community
- Practitioners of research-based youth development practices and systems
- A tailored, personalized, strengths-based learning experience
- Advocates for opportunity youth
Who We Are Not
- A credit recovery program
- A school community engaged in exclusionary practices
- A "one-size-fits-all" program
- A singularly focused academic program
The Right Support Changes Everything
At LEAD, you get more than an education, you become part of a community that's in your corner.
With wrap-around supports designed to meet you where you are, you'll have everything you need to stay on track, build your future, and become who you're meant to be.
Yaneliz’s Story // LEAD Charter School