Case Study: Walton County School District achieves increased science scores and student engagement with Edmentum's Study Island

Sparking a Love for Science and Raising Scores in DeFuniak Springs

Walton County School District in DeFuniak Springs, Florida (9,480 K–12 students, 53% free/reduced lunch) faced stagnant and declining science achievement when Superintendent Russell Hughes began analyzing student data in 2016 and identified science as a top priority. District leaders needed a targeted, standards-aligned approach to reignite student interest and improve test performance across diverse grade levels.

In 2017 WCSD rolled out Edmentum’s Study Island for grades 3–8 with hands-on PD, flexible classroom implementations, and use of the Sensei data dashboard for standards-based, differentiated instruction. Schools using the program with fidelity saw measurable gains—Maude Saunders Elementary +13% science FSA, West DeFuniak Elementary and Freeport Middle +10% each, Walton Middle +5%, Paxton +1%—along with high student engagement, large volumes of practice completed, and state recognition of the district’s growth.

Walton County School District

Crystal Appel

Coordinator of Instructional Support Services