The secret behind 11 months of growth in half a year

At The Linder Academy, our students experience nearly a full year of academic progress in just half that time. This accelerated learning isn't the result of increased homework or extended school hours. Instead, it's the outcome of our commitment to personalized education and innovative teaching strategies.

Personalized learning: teaching to the individual, not the average

Every student has a unique blend of strengths, interests, and areas where they need support. At Linder, we meet students where they are—not where a curriculum map says they should be. Our model of personalized learning allows teachers to tailor instruction to each child’s level, pace, and preferred learning style.

According to the RAND Corporation’s research on personalized learning models, students in schools using these approaches made greater gains in both math and reading compared to peers in traditional schools (RAND Report). The results were especially notable for students who had previously performed below grade level.

Skill-based cohorts: rethinking traditional grade numbers for different subjects

Instead of grouping students by age alone, we group them by skill level. Your child might be in a math cohort that matches their ability—whether that means extra support or more advanced material. These mixed-skill cohorts are flexible and fluid, allowing students to move up or get more reinforcement as needed.

A 2021 study found that competency-based education—where students advance upon mastery rather than seat time—leads to higher academic achievement, increased student agency, and stronger engagement (Aurora Institute).

In practical terms, this means students don’t sit through lessons that are too easy or too difficult. They are challenged appropriately every day, never bored or demoralized, and as a result they build confidence as they succeed at their own pace. This also helps to develop a real and true love of learning that extends throughout life.

The cohort structure also promotes a collaborative environment where students can support and challenge each other appropriately. Studies have shown that cohort-based learning can lead to a 41% improvement in memory retention and an 87% increase in course completion rates (Close the Gap Foundation).

Real-time data: teaching that adapts

Our teachers are constantly assessing—not with more tests, but with meaningful check-ins, observations, and performance-based tasks. This allows them to pivot instruction based on what’s working and what’s not, providing targeted support the moment it’s needed.

For example, a student who’s grappling with multiplication might use hands-on tools and visuals while getting small group instruction. Another student who’s mastered that skill might move on to multi-step problem solving. There’s no stigma, no boredom—just learning that fits.

Small class sizes: big impact

Our intentionally small class sizes are a key ingredient. Fewer students per class means more one-on-one time, more meaningful feedback, and more opportunities for students to speak up, take risks, and be heard.

Research from the National Education Policy Center confirms that smaller class sizes in early grades improve student outcomes, especially for students who need extra support (NEPC Report).

Linder’s recognition for results

Even though The Linder Academy is still a relatively young school, our approach has already made an impact. We’ve been recognized with multiple local awards, including "Best of Arlington" and "Best of Northern Virginia" for private schools. These honors reflect what our community already knows—our students are thriving.

But more meaningful than any accolade is the feedback we hear from families. Parents tell us about children who used to feel bored, anxious, or frustrated in traditional classrooms now waking up excited to go to school. Students who once believed they “weren’t math kids” or “couldn’t write well” now own those identities with pride. And twice-exceptional (2e) learners—who were often overlooked or unchallenged elsewhere—are finally being supported in the ways they need to grow.

A better way to learn

If your child has ever felt overlooked in a traditional classroom—either because they needed more time or more challenge—know this: there’s a better way. Personalized learning works. Skill-based cohorts work. And they’re working right now at The Linder Academy.

When students feel seen, supported, and challenged in just the right way, progress doesn’t just happen—it accelerates. And that’s the real secret behind our students’ success.