K-12 Public Schools

The Springfield five-county metro area is home to 26 school districts, including Springfield Public Schools, the largest fully accredited district in Missouri.

From elementary through high school, our award-winning educational systems work to meet the needs of every student through efficient and effective use of resources, student preparation, and teacher support. Springfield alone has invested more than $278 million since 2000 to improve its facilities with the renovation of all five high schools, construction of three new schools, and expansion or remodeling of other schools. Our public school teachers have an average of 13 years of experience and 67% have pursued advanced degrees to stay at the forefront of education. Our school systems are constantly developing innovative new programs to address the needs of a diverse student population.

Whether you live in Springfield or one of our surrounding communities, you’ll find some of the best academic programs, educational opportunities, and school districts in the nation right here.

Recognition and Honors

• In Springfield, all five public high schools are Missouri A+ schools and the district produces an average ACT score that ranks above both state and national averages.
• Three schools in the region (Bolivar High School, Nixa High School, and Spokane High School) were awarded the 2013 National Blue Ribbon for academic achievement by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Springfield’s Central High School received the gold (2012) and silver (2013) medals in U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools rankings.

Innovative Learning Programs

Traditional learning models go a long way, but not every student learns by the same methods. In order to meet the needs of all students, our local public schools and community have been innovators in developing and implementing one-of-a-kind, specialized learning programs. Here is just a small sampling of the innovative models offered by the Springfield Public Schools and other community organizations.

• Health Sciences Academy @ Mercy

  Opening in August 2014, this unique school will provide two full-time classrooms for 50 eighth-graders in the heart of Mercy Hospital. As part of the Springfield Public Schools “choice” program, this opportunity will give students early and unprecedented access to all aspects of the health sciences.

  Health Sciences Academy @ Mercy

• Academy of Exploration

  The Discovery Center in downtown Springfield, in collaboration with Springfield Public Schools, will soon provide dedicated class space for 50 fifth-grade students in its 60,000-square-foot science center. Nearly all of the center’s hands-on exhibits will support the science-, technology-, engineering-, and math-oriented curriculum.

  Academy of Exploration

• The Phelps Center for the Gifted WINGS Program

  Designed for academically gifted students in elementary and middle school, grades 1–8, The Phelps Center provides academic challenge and rigor and addresses the social and emotional needs of the gifted student.

  The Phelps Center for the Gifted

• International Baccalaureate Program

  Offering Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma programs, area I.B. schools provide a challenging curriculum designed to help students succeed in the global community.

  International Baccalaureate Program

• Wonders of the Ozarks Learning Facility (WOLF)

  This inquiry-based learning experience—in partnership with Bass Pro Shops—allows fifth graders to explore a comprehensive standard curriculum through the context of nature and conservation.

  Wonders of the Ozarks Learning Facility

• GO CAPS

  Greater Ozarks Centers for Advanced Professional Studies (GO CAPS) is an educational program that immerses high school students in professional environments through engaging curriculum driven by industry leaders and delivered by industry experts. GO CAPS combines hands-on career experiences in a classroom setting located onsite at facilities of partnering employers. Five course strands are currently offered through GO CAPS — Engineering & Manufacturing, Medicine & Health Care, IT & Software Solutions, Business & Entrepreneurship, and Teacher Education. The program provides real-world, professional skills through a year-long curriculum and has an enrollment of 300 students across 23 partnering school districts throughout region and surrounding area..

  GO CAPS

• Project Lead the Way

  A hands-on, project- and problem-based learning program, Project Lead the Way is designed to increase high school student interest and achievement in math, science, technology, and engineering.

  Project Lead the Way

• Middle College

  This career-oriented curriculum encourages underperforming students to stay in school, while allowing them to pursue education and career goals and gain work experience and income.

  Middle College

• JROTC

  Providing leadership, citizenship, and character development, JROTC promotes confidence, esteem, discipline, and teamwork skills in high school students through incorporation of activities such as rifle and drill training.

• Robberson Community School

  Springfield’s innovative school-as-community-center concept offers support, learning, and recreational opportunities for students and their families day and night. Its unique continuous learning calendar gives students opportunities to sharpen their skills or explore new subjects during intersession courses.

  Robberson Community School