By Dr. Ben Hackenwerth
School choice has been a hotly debated topic since the 1990s. Simply put, school choice allows parents to select an educational setting outside of their assigned public school district. Proponents argue that school choice options such as school voucher programs, charter schools, and education savings accounts, promote educational equity, foster innovation, and empower families. Those opposed to school choice programs argue that these programs divert funds from public schools, increase segregation, and reduce accountability. Springfield Public Schools recognized the rise of the national school choice movement nearly two decades ago. Taking a proactive approach, SPS set out to show families that, through strong community partnerships, families could access innovative school choice options within the public school setting. In 2008, SPS opened its first two choice magnet schools, the Wonders of Wildlife Learning Facility (WOLF), in partnership with Bass Pro Shops, and Middle College with OTC. These programs, like all SPS choice magnet schools, do not have a specific attendance boundary. Students are selected to attend through an application and lottery process. SPS magnet schools have focused themes and aligned curriculum that provide students access to unique learning opportunities driven by their passion, inquiry, and community connections. These programs focus heavily on experiential learning and hands-on engagement. Best of all, they are public schools and are at no cost to families. SPS remains committed to increasing opportunities for families to engage in public school choice. To date, SPS offers families and students over a dozen choice programs. Students interested in the medical field can choose to attend a classroom at a local hospital. Those who want to be a commercial pilot can pursue their passion at the Springfield-Branson National Airport. There are also choice programs focused on agriculture, fine and performing arts, and science, technology, engineering, math and more. In addition to the extensive offerings of choice programs, SPS also offers a wide variety of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs at the middle and high school levels. These programs offer a sequence of courses that provide students with aligned content, challenging academic standards, and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in current or emerging professions. High school students who do not find a desired CTE pathway in their home school can access the Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC) Career Center where they can explore possible careers, and develop skills needed in today’s workforce. When students attend the Career Center, they earn both high school and college credit, as well as industry recognized certifications. With 20+ programs available, students have a variety of options for an immersive technical learning experience.Later this fall, SPS students will begin making decisions about their courses for the 2026-2027 school year. School counselors can assist those interested in CTE programming to identify the best pathway to meet their needs. Families interested in a choice magnet school will need to apply during the month of November. More information can be found online at https://www.sps.org/choice.
