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2016-2017 Magnet and High School Choice
Information Booklet

Springfield Public Schools

Magnet Schools: Choice, Opportunity, and Programs That Fit How Students Learn

Springfield Magnet Schools are designed for families who want clear program options and meaningful learning experiences. Within Springfield Public Schools, magnet pathways help students grow through focused themes like STEM, Montessori, arts integration, global communications, and expeditionary learning. The goal is simple: strong academics, strong culture, and a program approach that makes sense for each learner.

Use this homepage as a practical hub. It gathers the most helpful links in one place, offers quick guidance for comparing programs, and points you toward the next step whether you are exploring options for the first time or preparing for enrollment. If you have a shortlist already, you can jump straight to school listings and then review enrollment details.

A good place to start is Selecting the Right School, followed by timelines and requirements in Enrollment & Registration. If you prefer quick answers, the FAQ page is also available from the About section.

Common questions from families

What is a magnet program?
A magnet program is a school option built around a specific instructional approach or theme. Themes can shape the kinds of projects students do, the skills emphasized day to day, and the ways learning is demonstrated.
How do families compare schools?
Many families compare theme first and then confirm practical factors like grade levels, location, school culture, student supports, and how families stay informed. Those details help match the program to the student rather than choosing based on a single feature.
Where should we go for next steps?
The most direct route is to browse school options first and then review application steps and dates. If you need help, the Contact Us page provides a clear way to reach the Magnet Program Office.

Program themes you will see

Themes show up in real classroom routines. Some programs lean into long-term projects and presentations, while others emphasize structured skill-building and applied practice. You may also see opportunities that highlight creativity, leadership, and service alongside core academic growth.

Expeditionary Learning International Baccalaureate Global Communications Advanced Studies Social Justice Montessori STEM Visual and Performing Arts

For a clear explanation of magnet programming in Springfield, visit The Magnet Schools Advantage.

Explore Schools by Grade Band: A Simple Way to Narrow Options

If you prefer to browse rather than read long descriptions, start with Our Schools. Open the grade band that matches your student and review one school at a time. Families often find it helpful to keep a small checklist while reading so comparisons stay consistent.

When you read a school page, look for what students actually do: projects, labs, studio work, reading and writing routines, language and communication practice, and how the school supports students who need additional structure or enrichment. That daily experience is usually the best indicator of fit.

Magnet school learning environment

Many families create a short list of priorities (learning style, enrichment, social environment, commute) and then see which schools align best. If you have questions during comparison, the About area includes parent-friendly resources.

Useful reads: About Us and Just for Parents.

Community Resource Spotlight: Keeping Learning Routines Steady

Families sometimes ask how to keep routines stable when unexpected home issues interrupt daily life. When a household is dealing with urgent repairs, the first priority is safety and a clear plan, and that plan should reduce disruption for students.

For situations involving water or environmental damage, working with a reliable Boston restoration company can help families move from uncertainty to a clear set of next steps. It also makes it easier to return to normal schedules, which supports attendance, homework habits, and overall student wellbeing.

Even when a situation is resolved quickly, it is still helpful to keep important school documents together, confirm contact details, and maintain a consistent morning routine. Small habits often make transitions feel manageable.

Enrollment Planning: Practical Steps That Reduce Stress

The strongest enrollment plans are built early. Families who feel confident usually do three things: review school options first, gather documents in advance, and write down questions so conversations with staff are focused and productive.

A planning checklist

What to look for on a school page

Focus on daily learning: how students practice core skills, how projects are structured, what enrichment looks like, and how families receive updates. When you compare the same details across schools, your decision becomes clearer.

If you can, consider writing down two or three questions that matter most for your student. Having those questions ready makes school conversations more useful and helps you avoid missing important details.

Featured School Pathways: What Students Experience Day to Day

A program theme is more than a label; it shapes the learning rhythm. Some programs lean into long-term projects, while others emphasize structured skill-building or studio-based instruction. Below is a snapshot of how families often describe the experience once students are enrolled and routines are established.

Project-based and expeditionary learning

Students learn by investigating real questions, building presentations, and reflecting on their work. Families often notice that students become more confident explaining ideas, collaborating with peers, and improving drafts through feedback.

Students engaged in learning activity

This pathway can be a strong fit for learners who do best when tasks have clear purpose and students can see progress through real outcomes.

STEM, labs, and applied problem-solving

STEM pathways blend core academics with labs, design challenges, and structured practice. Students build confidence by testing ideas, learning from mistakes, and improving results over time.

STEM learning environment

Families often say STEM programs help students connect classroom learning to real-world problem solving.

Arts, culture, and communication

Arts and communications programs support creativity and confident expression. Families often see growth in teamwork, presentation skills, and student motivation when the school culture values creative work alongside academic foundations.

Visual and performing arts program

If you want to compare multiple schools, browse one grade band at a time and take notes on routines, supports, and enrichment. That approach keeps comparisons fair and makes a final decision easier.

For quick answers, visit Magnet Program FAQ’s.

Family Transitions and School Readiness: Moving Without Losing Momentum

School transitions sometimes coincide with housing transitions. When a family is moving, it helps to keep a small set of essentials easy to reach: enrollment paperwork, proof documents, school contacts, and any schedules needed for the first week.

Many families also reduce stress by planning the logistics early and choosing dependable Boston movers for the heavy lifting. This can free up time to focus on school-related tasks such as transportation planning, confirming school start details, and helping students feel settled.

A calm move-in week often supports a smoother start academically. After the move, a consistent bedtime routine and a simple homework setup can help students regain momentum quickly.