Our Approach
At Great Oaks Legacy Charter School, our approach is clear and consistent: every student is known, challenged, and supported from Pre-K through 12th grade. Guided by our Three Principles and the Griffin Way, we provide a rigorous, relationship-driven, college-ready experience for Newark students.
Three Principals
These principles guide our work every day:
- Creating a community built on meaningful relationships
We build strong connections among students, families, and staff so every child feels seen, respected, and supported. - Being “surgical” in our approach to instruction and support
We use data, differentiated instruction, and targeted academic and social-emotional supports to meet the needs of every student and team member. - Setting and exceeding high expectations
We hold ambitious expectations for academic growth and character development so all students are prepared to succeed in college, career, and life beyond our doors.
The Griffin Way: How Our Team Shows Up
Our values shape what students and families experience on every campus:
Respect
We honor each student’s identity, voice, and lived experience. We partner with families as true collaborators in their child’s journey.
Excellence
We plan with intention, teach with urgency, and use results to refine our practice. Our commitment is to high-quality teaching in every classroom, every day.
Optimism
We believe deeply in what is possible for Newark students. We celebrate growth, effort, and achievement, and we approach challenges with solutions.
Understanding
We listen, respond with empathy, and support the whole child. We create environments where students feel safe to learn, lead, and take academic risks.
What This Means for Your Child
Small School Communities
Grade-level cohorts with fewer than 100 students in elementary and middle school and fewer than 160 students in high school ensure your child is known by name and supported by adults who care about both their success and their story. These intentionally small communities allow for meaningful relationships, close collaboration with families, and a school culture where every student feels seen and valued.
Proven College & Career Results
Our model delivers outcomes that open doors:
- 76% of GOLCS graduates enroll in college — compared to a 46% national average in similar communities
- 84% of juniors and seniors take at least one AP course — 50% above the state average
- 48% of seniors graduate with earned college credits
- Historically, GOLCS students have been awarded over $25 million in scholarships
High Expectations & Rigorous Academics (Pre-K–12)
From early literacy through Advanced Placement and college-level coursework, students engage in challenging, culturally relevant learning that prepares them for competitive colleges and meaningful careers.
In high school, students access Advanced Placement, dual-enrollment, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities—including partnerships with colleges and universities such as Brown University, Cornell University, Rutgers University, Arizona State University, and Essex County College—so they can experience college-level work and earn credits before graduation.
More Time on Task
A longer school day, along with additional support opportunities, gives students more time to master content, strengthen skills, and accelerate their growth.
Effective Instruction, Every Day
Our educators are skilled, mission-driven professionals who receive ongoing coaching, collaboration time, and clear standards to ensure engaging, high-impact instruction across all classrooms.
Daily Tutoring Built Into the School Day
Individualized and small-group tutoring is embedded into the schedule, including support from trained AmeriCorps tutors. This daily, targeted attention reinforces classroom instruction and drives measurable academic gains.
