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Transforming Lexington Traditional Magnet School Under Bryne Jacobs

Students practicing in the modern dance studio at Lexington Traditional Magnet School

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News Summary

Under Bryne Jacobs’ leadership, Lexington Traditional Magnet School has undergone significant transformations, elevating it from poor performance to a center of academic and artistic excellence. The school has introduced new facilities, restructured its curriculum, and improved student engagement, leading to substantial increases in academic performance. With community involvement and a focus on inclusivity, Jacobs is reshaping the school’s identity and fostering a creative environment for all students.

Lexington, KY – Under the leadership of principal Bryne Jacobs, Lexington Traditional Magnet School (LTMS) has experienced transformative changes that have propelled it from being one of Lexington’s lowest-performing institutions to a beacon of academic and artistic excellence. Significant improvements in both student performance and community engagement have marked Jacobs’s tenure, which began after he left Lafayette High School’s performing arts magnet in 2022.

One of the most notable physical changes is the conversion of the old SAFE room, formerly designated for in-house suspensions, into a modern dance studio. This new studio is equipped with mirrors, barres, and slip-resistant flooring, which provide students with top-notch resources for their artistic pursuits. Additionally, substantial investments have been made in the school’s infrastructure, including a $50,000 upgrade for high-tech lighting and sound equipment on stage, new musical instruments, and a revamped curriculum aimed at enhancing the artistic experience.

Jacobs has played a crucial role in shifting the perception of the school and its students, many of whom have faced historical discrimination. He has emphasized the unique talents of these students to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. Under his guidance, LTMS has adopted a block scheduling system, which has allowed for deeper immersion in arts classes, promoting creativity and talent development.

Changes in staffing have also been significant, with approximately 70% of the school’s personnel replaced to align with the new vision and mission. To further enhance the educational experience, Jacobs has secured federal grants that fund training and enrichment programs. Collaborations with local organizations, including the Lexington Theater Company and renowned opera singer Dr. Michael Preacely, have enriched the school’s offerings.

As a direct result of these transformative efforts, the school’s academic performance has improved remarkably. From 2023 to 2024, LTMS saw an increase of 20 points in its overall composite score on the Kentucky state test, achieving an overall score of 48.6. Reading scores experienced growth from 39.3 to 44.7, while math scores jumped from 28.2 to 36.9. Additionally, scores for English language learners rose by an impressive 30 points, reflecting the positive impact of Jacobs’s initiatives.

The school has a storied history, having originally been built in 1909 as a segregated high school for Black students. Over the years, the number of magnet students declined until recent community redistricting revitalized its student body. Jacobs is actively engaging with community stakeholders to gather input on renaming the school to better reflect its current identity and the changes it has undergone, fostering a sense of belonging among students and their families.

Community leaders and parents have lauded Jacobs for his commitment to community engagement. Tayna Fogle, a former council member and a graduate of LTMS, acknowledges his understanding of the trauma that the community has faced over the years. The school now proudly offers a Visual and Performing Arts Pathway, allowing students to begin their studies in music, theater, dance, and visual arts as early as sixth grade, with opportunities to specialize in these fields by eighth grade.

Teachers are well-prepared to integrate arts into core subjects, enhancing the overall educational culture and climate at LTMS. One parent, Raven Piercy, recognizes the equitable access to arts education that the school provides, ensuring participation for all students, regardless of their prior experience. Jacobs, along with community stakeholders, continues to advocate for improvements that benefit every student, irrespective of their background.

Jacobs remains steadfast in his ambitious goals for the students, and he continues to strive for further academic and artistic excellence. The commitment to transformation at LTMS signals a promising future for its students, staff, and the extended community.