How many scholars are in each K-5 classroom?

Each K-5 classroom has 18 scholars with two certified educators. This ratio allows for meaningful differentiation and individualized attention without pulling students out of the classroom community.

Are both teachers certified?

Yes. Both educators in every K-5 classroom are certified by the Maryland Department of Education. Our AmeriCorps Fellows are trained and supported paraprofessionals who work under the supervision of certified teachers.

How does the two-teacher model work in 6-8?

While our middle grades (6-8) operate with a different instructional model, we still prioritize small class sizes, strong teacher-student relationships, and access to support services. We're exploring how to bring the two-adult model to these grades.

Does the two-adult model pull students out for intervention?

No. The beauty of having two educators in the classroom is that small-group instruction, behavioral support, and differentiation happen within the full classroom community. Students stay with their peers while still receiving targeted help.

How do schools afford two teachers per classroom?

Legends is a public charter school funded by per-pupil education dollars. We maximize efficiency in operations, invest heavily in teacher recruitment and retention, and leverage AmeriCorps Legends Fellows, whose service year is partially grant-funded. This model is replicable.

What outcomes has the two-adult model produced?

Our scholars show strong progress in literacy and math. We track academic growth, not just absolute achievement. Scholars also thrive socially and emotionally, with lower discipline rates and higher engagement. See our Outcomes page for full data.

Can I visit a classroom to see the model in action?

Absolutely! Tours are a great way to see the two-adult model up close. Scholars, teachers, and families will show you what learning at Legends looks like. Book a tour at legendspcs.org/admissions/tour.

The Two-Adult Classroom Model

How two certified educators in every K-5 classroom transform learning, support, and outcomes.

What is the Two-Adult Classroom Model?

Legends Public Charter School in Lanham, Maryland operates a two-adult classroom model in every K-5 grade. Two certified educators co-teach 18 scholars per classroom, enabling real-time differentiation, behavioral support, and small-group instruction without pulling students out. The model has served over 900 scholars since 2020 and is supported by AmeriCorps Legends Fellows.

Why the Two-Adult Model Works

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Real-Time Differentiation

While one teacher leads whole-group instruction, the other works with a small group on a targeted skill or challenge. No scholar waits in line for help. Every scholar gets the exact support they need, when they need it.

❤️

Behavioral & Emotional Support

With two adults present, we respond to behavior in the moment with calm, love, and clarity. We never shame or isolate. Scholars learn how to regulate emotions and make better choices while staying part of the community.

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Teacher Partnership & Joy

Teaching is hard. With a co-teacher, educators share the emotional labor, plan together, cover for meetings, and celebrate wins together. Strong teachers stay at Legends because they're not alone.

How We Staff the Two-Adult Model

Certified Co-Teachers

Two Maryland-certified educators share classroom leadership, curriculum, and responsibility. Both are accountable for scholar outcomes. Both plan together. Both bring their expertise.

AmeriCorps Legends Fellows

Our AmeriCorps service members work in K-5 classrooms alongside certified teachers. They receive training, mentorship, and support. Fellows gain real classroom experience while serving scholars. Their service year is partially grant-funded, making the model sustainable.

Support Staff & Specialists

Special education teachers, English Language specialists, school counselors, and support staff provide additional layers of expertise. But classroom teachers remain the primary educators.

Efficient Operations

We invest heavily in the classroom, which means we're lean in operations. Smart resource allocation, strong grants management, and per-pupil funding maximize what reaches scholars.

Our Results

Our scholars show strong progress in literacy and math. We track academic growth, scholar engagement, social-emotional development, and school climate. We're transparent about our data and committed to continuous improvement.

900+

Scholars Served

Years of Excellence

100%

Lottery Fill Rate

[Data visualizations coming — see CONTENT-PLACEHOLDERS.md]

Our full academic outcomes report is available at /academics/outcomes

Questions About the Two-Adult Model?

See It In Action

Want to see a two-adult classroom in real life? Book a tour and watch how our model works.

Book a Tour →