Dr Lena Edwards Academic Charter School

Dr. Lena Edwards Academic Charter School (DLEACS), located in the Bergen-Lafayette section of Jersey City, is a tuition-free public charter school serving students in grades K–8. Named in honor of Dr. Lena Frances Edwards, a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient and dedicated community physician, the school aims to uphold her legacy by fostering a culture of academic excellence, character development, and civic responsibility. The school operates with a mission to provide a rigorous, well-rounded education that prepares students for success in competitive high schools and beyond.

The school is known for its holistic approach, balancing traditional academics with a focus on core values and personal growth. By maintaining smaller class sizes and a structured environment, DLEACS emphasizes individualized attention, allowing educators to support students with diverse learning needs. Beyond the classroom, the school often engages with the surrounding Jersey City community, encouraging students to become active, compassionate citizens while striving to narrow the achievement gap through consistent high expectations and strong parent-teacher partnerships.