When over 400 Legacy Christian Academy students in grades kindergarten through eighth arrive on campus this fall, they'll be greeted by more than just their dedicated, warm teachers and devoted administration staff. New tech advancements, exciting
library additions, security improvements and even a new assistant principal are also in the cards for the 2014-2015 school year.
Technology Abounds
Legacy students already benefit from the most current classroom technology, including Smartboards and dedicated computer instruction. This year, even the youngest Legacy students will have their own iPad in hand to use in their center rotations, during MIND Math instruction and more.
"Our teachers also use an iPad to navigate the interactive boards," says Principal Tim Borruel. "And each of our middle schoolers will be getting a new Mac laptop to aid in their studies. All of these improvements coordinate with an upgraded Wi-Fi system that enhances reception and coverage across campus."
More Reasons to Book it to the Library
Volumes of new books and eBooks are showing up every day on the Legacy campus in preparation for the start of the school year. Destiny Quest, Legacy's library management system, is available online and through the Destiny Quest app, which simplifies the checkout process. Through Destiny Quest, Legacy students can also view lists of popular books, see what other students are reading at Legacy and even post reviews viewable only by members of the Legacy community. The new "universal search" feature allows students to research or surf the web safely at school or at home, too. Students will be able to type in a topic and receive a full online listing of Legacy books, eBooks and a comprehensive listing of student-friendly websites and links. The system is a boon to internet safety and academic research; the filtered sites direct students to authentic text, not advertisements or wikis.
Safety First
Legacy is known for its safe, secure campus - and this year, there's even more for parents to feel good about. Video cameras have been installed in main traffic areas and in several elementary classrooms; local law enforcement has assisted in revising and improving security protocols; additional fencing was built near the middle school; and access to both campuses requires passage through locked doors that require staff to "buzz" the guest in.
A New Friendly Face
Dr. Matthew Northrop has joined the Legacy admin team in the role of assistant principal - and the community of staff, students and families couldn't be more excited! Dr. Northrop, formerly the dean of students at the prestigious Oaks Christian High School in Westlake Village, is a Valencia resident, husband and father of two young boys. Next year, Dr. Northrop will transition to the position of principal of Legacy. "I've been impressed by the Legacy model for years," says Dr. Northrop, "and when I met the administration, students and families here, the school instantly felt like home. I'm excited to aid in the continuation of Legacy's success in developing students' academic prowess and Biblical character in a warm, nurturing environment. I feel blessed to be part of this Academy - and grateful for the warm welcome!"
Legacy Students Score on SAT-10 ExamLegacy's already-impressive national test ranking averages, which were over the 90th percentile, rose by over a full point this year. The SAT-10 exam, which measures aptitude in a variety of academic subjects, allows parents to view a snapshot of how their children's skills measure up when compared to other kids across the country. "It's helpful to see how your child and their peers perform, not just based on state tests, but in a US context. Legacy parents consider their kids college bound and they want to know that they're receiving an exceptional education, not just in contrast to their region or state, but on the national scale. This year's test scores are a testament to our hard-working teachers and students, well-selected curriculum and involved parent community. I'm incredibly proud of our Legacy family," says Principal Tim Borruel.