Central Charter School

Central Charter School was the second charter school to open in Broward County. Dr. Rosa Lawson, founder, and CEO saw an opportunity to start a school to address the academic and social needs for at-risk students in the Lauderdale Lakes and surrounding cities. As a result, Central Charter School opened its doors in August 1997 and served approximately 159 students in grades K-2.

The Mission stated:

"Central Charter School provides an enriched innovative educational program focusing on reading, writing, mathematics, and language arts for at-risk students in the Broward County School District. The curriculum shall emphasize proper manners and behavior in an environment that is positive and safe. It shall further emphasize high expectation for success of all students enrolled. Finally, the curriculum shall provide opportunities to enhance parenting skills for the parents of students enrolled at Central Charter School."

Central Charter School had its humble beginnings in a strip mall surrounded by other businesses and two churches. The school occupied two (bays) in the southernmost buildings (Buildings 1 and 2). In addition, the administration was comprised of Dr. Rosa Lawson and Mrs. Tracy Nessl, then principal. There were six (6) teachers and six (6) classrooms.

Central Charter School was very successful in that we earned “A’s” consecutively for a number of years. News of our success quickly spread throughout the immediate and surrounding communities. Further, parents began seeking out an alternative to the traditional public school since they were surrounded by schools that were not performing very well academically. Soon we were bombarded by parents trying desperately to enroll their children in Central Charter School. As a result, we created a waiting list.

In 2011, the north building became available, and Kindergarten was moved to that building. This made additional space possible for classrooms for grades one through six. Nevertheless, during the enrollment period, the number of applicants exceeded available spaces. With all open spaces filled in a very short time, many parents were disappointed because there were no available spaces for their children.

In May of 2013, Phyl’s Academy moved to another location, and Central Charter School purchased the building that this academy formerly occupied. Seventh grade was added, and overall, enrollment once again increased. Enrollment increased from approximately 800 to approximately 1,200 students. Furthermore, the instructional staff grew to 65 teachers.

Today, Central Charter School is a K-8 (Kindergarten through the Eighth Grade) Center. It has become an essential organization in the community. It has served numerous students who have gone on to make their mark in society. For example, some of our former students are pursuing degrees in medicine, education, and law. Moreover, we attribute our success to the dedicated administration, faculty, and staff who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that students get a well-rounded education. It is our determination to stay on the path of excellence in education and continue to impact our local and global communities positively.