SPS Choice Programs
What is SPS Choice?
SPS Choice is a term utilized to describe the variety of programs developed over the years that provide additional learning options for students at Springfield Public Schools. SPS Choice is choice within the public school setting. Read more...
AIMS
The Alternative Intervention Middle School (AIMS) is designed to address the academic, social and behavioral needs of students in grades 6-8. Program goals are to build self-esteem, help improve social skills and academic performance through various instructional strategies. Applications are available through a student’s school and can be submitted by a counselor or parent. AIMS is in the Pepperdine Building at 1518 E. Dale St. Call (417) 523-4200.
Bailey Alternative High School
Bailey provides an educational setting to address the academic and personal needs of students who have experienced problems in the traditional school setting. Bailey serves 180 students a year and provides differentiated instruction with a low student-teacher ratio. Bailey offers the Missouri Option program and credit recovery courses. We also offer child care to teen moms. Applications can be submitted by students 18 or older, a school counselor or parent. Bailey is located at 501 W. Central St. Call (417) 523-2710.
BRIDGES
The BRIDGES program provides direct service to gifted students grades 3-5. Using non-traditional methods of identification and evaluation, BRIDGES students are from underrepresented populations attending Title I elementary schools. Students may be referred for testing by a parent or teacher. Students attend one full instructional day per week at Weller Elementary School, 1630 N. Weller Ave. Call (417) 523-3300.
CAMP Sunshine
Sunshine Elementary School offers the unique CAMP Sunshine (communication, arts, media program) that emphasizes communication arts curriculum with a focus on language, literature and writing. Students are also introduced to the Spanish language. Call (417) 523-5200.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Program
The IB Diploma Program, an international college-preparatory curriculum which requires study in six subjects including a second language, is open to all qualified district students in grades 11-12. Diploma Program students take rigorous honors courses specifically designed to meet the examination requirements set by the International Baccalaureate Organization. Participants must transfer to Central in order to participate in the DP. Students from any middle school in the district may apply for admission to Central's pre-Diploma program in December of their eighth grade year. Students not selected to begin Central's pre-Diploma courses as freshmen may re-apply during their ninth grade year. For more information, call (417) 523-9605.
IB Diploma Program information
International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program
The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IB-MYP) provides an international education to students in grades 6 through 10 designed to help develop the knowledge, understanding, attitudes and skills necessary to participate actively and responsibly in a changing world. The IB-MYP is located at Pipkin Middle School (grades 6-8) and Central High School (Grades 9-10). Students living in the Pipkin and Central attendance zone have first priority for enrollment. Call (417) 523-6000.
International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program
Available at Boyd and Field elementary schools, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB-PYP) focuses on the total growth of the developing child by encompassing social, physical, emotional and cultural needs along with academic development. Students living within each schools’ boundary are automatically enrolled in the program. Students from other elementary schools must apply at either Field, Boyd or Rountree. For more information, call Boyd at (417) 523-1500 or Field at (417) 523-4800.
Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps
Hillcrest High School offers the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), a leadership, citizenship and character development program designed to promote confidence, esteem, discipline and teamwork skills in high school students. This is not a recruiting program for the Army. Students also participate in community and school support activities, rifle and drill team, and more. For more information, call (417) 833-9810.
Middle College Program
This program will be introduced in the 2008-2009 school year as a partnership between Springfield Public Schools and Ozarks Technical Community College. Students will pursue education and career goals while gaining work experience and income. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a high school diploma, college credit and paid, related work experience. Middle College will give underperforming high school students new incentives to stay in school and gain access to higher education. Classes are at OTC. Call (417) 447-6997. Listen to an interview with Dr. LaRaine Bauer for more information about Middle College.
Middle Years Scholars Program
The Middle Years Scholars Program (MYSP) is a full-time middle school program designed to identify and provide educational services for highly gifted students in grades 6-8. This accelerated academic experience provides students with the opportunity to pursue areas of strength in a high school setting. Students must qualify for gifted services and complete an application process to be eligible for participation. MYSP is located at Central High School, 423 E. Central St. Call (417) 523-3300.
PALS
Positive Alternatives for Learning Success addresses the learning needs of students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The emphasis is placed on reading, math and sensory integration skills. Students may remain in the program until it is determined they are ready to go back to their neighborhood school. Applications are available at the student’s school and can be submitted by the student, school counselor or parent. PALS is located in the Berry building, 911 E. Division St. Call (417) 895-2119.
Phelps Center for the Gifted
The WINGS Program (Working with the Individual Needs of Gifted Students) is designed for academically gifted students in grades 1-8. The purpose of the program is to provide academic challenge and rigor, as well as address the social and emotional needs of the gifted student. Students may be referred for testing by a parent or teacher. Students who qualify for services attend the Phelps Center for Gifted Education, 934 S. Kimbrough Ave., one full instructional day per week. Call (417) 523-3300.
Project Lead the Way
Central, Glendale, Hillcrest and Kickapoo high schools offer this hands-on, project-and problem-based program to increase student interest and achievement in math, science, technology and engineering. PLTW offers four courses in sequence for students in grades 9-12. Call (417) 523-5547.
TRACKS
New for 2009-2010
TRACKS (Technology Rich Atmosphere Concentrating on Kids’ Success) is offered at the new David Harrison Elementary School in response to the school community’s desire for technology-enriched instruction. All 20 classrooms, plus computer lab, library, art, and music rooms, will be equipped with Smart Boards and an abundance of student computers. Similar to the eMINTS program, classrooms in grades 3 and 4 will have one computer for every two students. In kindergarten through grade 2, classrooms will have one computer for every four students. Teachers will undergo eMINTS for All training beginning in 2009-2010. Call (417) 523-5800.
WOLF
Wonders of the Ozarks Learning Facility (WOLF) allows fifth-grade students to spend considerable time learning in the outdoors. Students are taught the same core curriculum as other fifth-graders, but all subjects are taught in the context of nature and conservation education. Any district fourth-grade student with satisfactory attendance and behavior can apply. Call (417) 523-5547.