WOLF Program
An innovative learning opportunity for Springfield 5th graders.
WOLF offers an inquiry-based learning experience which allows students to explore a comprehensive curriculum through the context of nature and conservation.
WOLF Mission
To achieve academic excellence through a rigorous core academic program, in the context of the outdoors and conservation science, which instills a sense of integrity and respect of the natural world.
WOLF Vision
To create and utilize extensive and intentionally designed expeditionary learning experiences as meaningful extensions of the classroom.
What is WOLF?
Wonders of the Ozarks Learning Facility is an innovative SPS school that accommodates two classes of 5th grade students.
Students attend WOLF each day school is in session. Their physical classroom is at the Wonders of Wildlife Educational Center, 720 W. Sunshine. However, they spend a substantial amount of time engaged in hands-on inquiry “in the field,” including the Wonders of Wildlife museum.
Two WOLF teachers instruct students in the same core curriculum as other Springfield 5th graders. The difference is that all subjects are taught in the context of nature and conservation education.
A good candidate for WOLF...
A student who is curious about reptiles, their habitat, and food sources would be a good candidate.
- Enjoys studying nature, plants and animals.
- Reads books or magazines that feature nature.
- Likes to hike, canoe, camp, fish or hunt.
- Prefers visiting natural settings rather than amusement parks.
- Enjoys gardening.
- Collects leaves, rocks or insects.
- Chooses to play outdoors in all types of weather.
- Is concerned about protecting the environment.
Factors to consider
Students learn about watershed and the negative effects erosion can have on streams.
- WOLF students will learn and be accountable for the same curriculum and standards as all other SPS 5th grade students.
- Parents are responsible for transportation of their child to and from WOLF.
- Much of their week will be spent outdoors, in all types of weather, exploring the area’s parks and natural resources.
- Although WOLF is a “choice,” once accepted, a student is expected to complete the school year in the program.
- Only students who are currently 4th graders are eligible to apply.
- If behavior or attendance become a problem, a student may be asked to return to their home school.
"I have a son, who is enrolled in the WOLF program this year. He has always been a good student and always excited to learn new things. This year at WOLF school has been very exciting for him. It has given him an opportunity to explore his love for learning in a way he has not been able to do in school before. He is constantly asking questions, researching something or sharing information that he has learned or is learning - and he is very confident with this knowledge. While this is basically a science program, I have seen my son's learning evolve in so many other areas. He enjoys reading and interacting with his teachers on a book he has read; math is exciting; social studies is alive."
--Beth Peters, parent of WOLF student
"Over the last year, the Wonders of the Ozarks Learning Facility (WOLF school) developed into an outstanding resource for our local youth. Without a doubt, students are getting positive, meaningful life experiences while receiving their education. The world will face increasingly complex and drastic environmental challenges and the WOLF program will help produce the informed citizens and leaders we will need to face those challenges."
--Mike Kromrey, education coordinator, Watershed Committee of the Ozarks
"Through snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, target shooting, animal handling, eagle spotting and many more activities, (my son) has been engaged the entire year. He has brought home knowledge that nobody else in our house has. He has shared fishing tips, water safety, and animal facts. He’s learned about the watershed and can identify native plants and animals. He has learned a lot about our world and how seemingly small things have an impact on the big picture. He has worked on problem solving in many different situations. I believe my son has learned more and retained more this year than he ever has before. It is incredibly far sighted of SPS to establish this type of program. This program has nurtured and fostered his innate curiosity about the world and given him the opportunity to explore his interests in a way that I suspect will be a part of his life forever."
--Betsy Collins, parent of WOLF student
Submit your comments about WOLF.
The application process for the 2009-2010 school year is now complete. Check back here in February 2010 for information about applying to attend WOLF in 2010-2011.
Any current fourth-grade student with satisfactory attendance (at least 95 percent) and behavior who resides within the SPS attendance area is eligible to apply. Students are selected through a random lottery process.
2009-2010 application materials (below) provide additional information about the program:
- Letter to parents
- Application form(Print here or contact your child's elementary school for a copy.)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- WOLF brochure
- Common questions from 2008-2009
If you have questions, call 523-0000 or send an e-mail.