Summary:
ZIP code 03038 in Derry, New Hampshire, includes two high schools serving grades 9–12: Pinkerton Academy and Next Charter School. Together, they enroll 3,069 students, although the schools differ greatly in size: Pinkerton serves 2,990 students, while Next Charter serves 79. This means the area’s overall high-school enrollment and experience are shaped primarily by Pinkerton, while Next Charter offers a much smaller school setting.
Pinkerton Academy is the stronger overall performer in the available data. It ranks 41st of 89 schools statewide and has improved from 50th in 2023–2024. Its 90.4% graduation rate is above New Hampshire’s 87.0% average, and its 1.7% dropout rate is below the state’s 2.3%. Reading is a clear strength, with 64% proficiency on both reported reading measures, compared with 55% on the NH SAS and 62% on the SAT statewide. Parents should also note areas needing improvement: math proficiency is 29% on both measures, and science proficiency is 27%, below state averages. Its larger size may also support a wider range of courses and activities, although specific offerings are not detailed here.
Next Charter School provides a much smaller environment and has a lower student-teacher ratio—8.7 students per teacher versus 13.8 at Pinkerton. However, its reported outcomes are considerably weaker: it ranks 80th of 89 schools, has a one-star rating, a 69.2% graduation rate, and a 7.6% dropout rate. Mathematics is the most serious concern, with 0% proficiency reported on both assessments; reading proficiency is 50%, below state averages but stronger than its math results. Its small enrollment means percentages may change substantially from year to year, so parents may want to ask about recent cohorts, assessment participation, attendance, student support, and course options. Overall, Pinkerton offers stronger academic and completion outcomes, while Next Charter’s main distinction is its smaller scale and lower student-teacher ratio.
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