Unlocking Understanding: How a Simple Lesson is Shaping Hearts at Legacy

At Legacy Christian School, inclusion is more than a goal—it is a daily practice rooted in our belief that every child is uniquely made in the image of God. Sometimes, the most powerful lessons in empathy and community come through the simplest of activities. This year, one such lesson began with a handful of keys.

When a student with autism spectrum disorder joined one of our elementary classrooms, Lisa Boone, Educational Support Services Coordinator at our elementary, recognized a meaningful opportunity. She wanted to help classmates not only welcome their new peer but also understand and celebrate the differences each student brings to the classroom. For guidance, Lisa turned to All Belong Center for Inclusive Education, a trusted partner in our commitment to building Christ-centered inclusive communities.

The classroom bulletin board displays each student’s photo alongside their personal keys, surrounding the verse at the center:

“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”

—Romans 15:7

All Belong has long walked alongside Legacy, providing practical tools, training, and a faith-based approach to inclusive education. Through their Member Center, Lisa discovered the “Keys” lesson—a thoughtful, hands-on activity designed to help students reflect on their own strengths and areas for growth while fostering empathy for others. Each child created a keyring, selecting a “key” that symbolized a skill or goal they were working to grow in. As part of the lesson, they also took time to learn about and celebrate the unique gifts of their new classmate.

The impact was immediate and lasting. The keyrings were proudly displayed in the classroom, serving as daily reminders that everyone is on a journey of learning and growth. Weeks later, one student ran up to Lisa and shared with excitement,“Ms. Boone! I unlocked a key! I played with someone at recess that I’ve never played with before!” Moments like this are why we believe so deeply in inclusive education—and why our partnership with All Belong is so important. Their Christ-centered resources help make inclusion not only possible but joyful.

This year’s 2025 Spring Auction gave us a chance to share these stories with our broader community. While the evening was a celebration in many ways—raising a record $212,000 in total and over $30,000 during the Fund-A-Need segment specifically for Inclusive Education—it was the personal testimonies that left a lasting impression. Lisa Boone, along with Dave and Laurie Morren, spoke about how inclusive education has shaped their lives and the Legacy community. Their stories moved hearts and reminded us all why this mission matters.

Thanks to your generosity and the continued support of partners like All Belong, Legacy Christian School is growing as a place where every student is known, loved, and belongs. Inclusion here is not an add-on; it is at the heart of who we are. And with every key unlocked—whether in a classroom or on a playground—we are reminded that belonging changes everything.