ALA Johnston Fourth Graders Who Began School During COVID-19 Shutdowns Are Now Academically Excelling

Students surpass state averages in reading and math by more than 10 points

JOHNSTON COUNTY – Fourth graders at American Leadership Academy (ALA) Johnston, who entered kindergarten during the height of COVID-19 shutdowns, are not only recovering from early learning disruptions but are exceeding academic expectations.

According to 2024–2025 assessment results, these students scored more than 11 points above the state average in reading and 14 points above the state average in math. Their performance contributed to ALA Johnston’s historic overall academic growth during the 2024–2025 school year.

While national conversations continue to highlight pandemic-related learning loss among early elementary students, ALA Johnston is demonstrating what is possible through a strong academic plan and consistent support. National research from the Stanford Graduate School of Education indicates that many young learners experienced substantial interruptions in foundational reading development during pandemic shutdowns, with incomplete recovery in subsequent years. In contrast, ALA Johnston students are surpassing statewide performance benchmarks.

To address early learning challenges, ALA Johnston implemented a rigorous academic curriculum that blends foundation skills and innovative instructional practices to meet students where they are and accelerate achievement. The school integrates both academics and character development into every aspect of learning, ensuring that values, critical thinking, and personal growth reinforce academic success. Together, these strategies have supported the strong performance of these students.

“We’re incredibly proud of our students and teachers,” said Talia Wright, Director of ALA Johnston. “These fourth graders started school during such a challenging time, and to see them not just catch up but surpass state averages is amazing. It really shows how far students can go when strong teaching, consistent support, and the right learning environment come together.”

American Leadership Academy is a K-12th-grade tuition-free public charter school, located at 3770 US 70 Business West, that serves over 1,800 students across Johnston County.