In Wetmore, Kansas, a town of just 311 people, a school closure could have meant the end of its community legacy. Instead, it ignited a remarkable journey of faith, innovation, and resilience. This is the story of how Legacy Learning Academy came to life—a story about community transformation and the power of following God’s call.
A Community at a Crossroads
In May 2023, Wetmore's only public school closed its doors, leaving families uncertain about the future of education for their children. For Analyssa Noe, a Wetmore native who had left for a career in corporate consulting, the timing was no coincidence. Returning home to reconnect with family, she found herself unexpectedly drawn into the challenges her hometown was facing.
As the community grappled with the school board’s decision, Analyssa felt compelled to take action. "Originally, I thought I was here to save the school," she recalls. "But God had a much bigger plan for this community."
The Birth of Legacy Learning Academy
With the closure of the public school, Analyssa and a coalition of local business owners began reimagining what education could look like in Wetmore. They envisioned a Christian microschool where faith and learning could thrive together. The result was Legacy Learning Academy, housed in the same building that had served as a public school for generations.
The transition wasn’t easy. Analyssa had no background in education and had to leave her high-powered corporate job to focus on the mission full-time. But her unwavering faith and the support of the community made the impossible possible. "It’s not as complicated as it seems," Analyssa says. "All it takes to teach a child is love, time, and conviction."
Faith, Family, and Community
Legacy Learning Academy opened its doors with 16 students from eight families, representing a variety of Christian denominations and backgrounds. The school’s hybrid model combines traditional academics with elective-based exploration, allowing students to thrive both in the classroom and at home.
One of the academy's greatest successes has been its focus on reading. With the help of experienced teachers, students have made incredible progress in just a few months. One parent shared, "My son hated school and had stopped trying. But now, he’s engaged and excited to learn again. I feel like I got my son back."
A Vision for the Future
As Legacy Learning Academy looks ahead, the goal is to grow strategically, starting with one new kindergarten class each year. The school aims to build on its pilot program’s successes, continuing to serve as a model for small towns facing similar challenges.
"We’re here to show families and churches that there’s hope," Analyssa explains. "This isn’t just about education—it’s about restoring faith, community, and a sense of purpose."
A Call to Action
Analyssa’s story serves as an inspiration for communities everywhere. Whether it’s starting a school, supporting local families, or uniting churches, her message is clear: change is possible when we step out in faith.
To learn more about Legacy Learning Academy or connect with Analyssa, you can reach her at analyssa.noe@gmail.com.
This blog post was generated from the following episode of the WISE and Otherwise Podcast with Dalena Wallace. Find more at: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wiseandotherwise
Comentários