Legacy Academy implements direct instruction to boost student achievement

Legacy Academy is making significant strides in academic performance, as highlighted during the recent ESD Board Meeting on March 25, 2025. The school has implemented a new instructional framework aimed at enhancing direct instruction and reducing reliance on digital learning tools. This shift comes after a thorough analysis of student performance data, which indicated a need for improvement in both growth and achievement metrics.

Principal Merlin and his team reported promising results from the NWEA assessments, showing substantial growth in mathematics and reading. The school set a goal of reaching the 60th percentile for growth by the end of the academic year, and they are currently on track, having achieved a 67th percentile growth in mathematics by mid-year. This progress is particularly noteworthy for students who have struggled in the past, with many achieving growth in the 80th percentile or higher.

Key changes contributing to this success include the adoption of a more rigorous curriculum, such as transitioning from a fully digital program to a comprehensive reading curriculum called Benchmark Advanced. Additionally, the school has focused on creating self-managed classrooms, encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning.

The board members expressed their appreciation for the partnership with Legacy Academy, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in supporting all students. As the school continues to refine its instructional strategies, the community can expect ongoing improvements in student outcomes, reinforcing the commitment to educational excellence. The next steps will involve further monitoring of student progress and adjustments to instructional practices to ensure sustained growth and achievement.