This ESSA Tier II efficacy study examines the relationship between consistent Newsela Social Studies use and student achievement in a large Midwestern school district.

The analysis focuses on middle school students and evaluates how sustained engagement with Newsela Social Studies correlates with growth on district and state social studies measures.

Key Findings

This study found that:

• Middle school students with consistent Newsela Social Studies use demonstrated nearly one additional year of growth compared to peers
• Higher levels of engagement were associated with statistically significant achievement gains
• Students using Newsela regularly outperformed peers even when controlling for prior achievement
• Results met ESSA Tier II evidence standards, supporting use in evidence-based funding plans

Who Should Use This Study?

This resource is designed for:

• District leaders overseeing ESSA implementation
• Social studies and curriculum directors
• Research and accountability teams
• Grant and funding decision-makers