Private School Profiles

Small Classes and Individualized Education at Discovery School

Discovery School at Discovery Center and Science Sprouts at the Discovery Center Preschool 

438 E. St Louis St., Springfield (Discovery School), 3447 W. Farm Road 168, Springfield (Science Sprouts)

Discovery School is a cutting-edge, nationally recognized, accredited independent school serving students from age 2 through grade 12 on two campuses. Recognized by Forbes as one of the most transformational, innovative schools in the country, Discovery School students outperform the Missouri average for grade-level attainment by over 85%.

The key to student success at Discovery School starts with the smallest class sizes in town, with each class being capped at 10 students. This small class size allows their award-winning team of educators to individualize a learning plan for each student, which allows students to excel at their own pace. With curriculum partners like NASA and the Smithsonian, students have access to hands-on STEM education. As the next generation of world-changers, Discovery School students receive personalized talent development allowing them to shine independently from a young age.

100% of current families who responded to Discovery School’s parent satisfaction survey are “very likely” or “extremely likely” to recommend Discovery School to another family. One review says, “My daughter comes home daily with nothing but positive things to say about what you do and who she is with.” Another says, “Our child is thriving in the school, we couldn’t be happier.”

Limited needs-based scholarships are available for qualifying families. For more information about Discovery School and to apply online, visit discoverycenter.org/school.

Springfield Catholic Schools: Educating Children Spiritually, Academically, Physically and Socially

Immaculate Conception, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Agnes and Springfield Catholic High School

2340 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield

Since 1870, Springfield Catholic Schools—Immaculate Conception Elementary, St. Elizabeth Seton Elementary, St. Agnes Elementary and Springfield Catholic High School—strive to educate the entire person through a long tradition of rigorous pursuits in academics, athletics and the arts within a caring, faith-based community. Springfield Catholic Schools prepares and empowers students, in an atmosphere of academic excellence, with God’s help, to be sent forth as disciples of the Catholic Faith and models of service.

At Springfield Catholic Schools you will find:

• Preschool through high school classes are led by experienced faculty who are focused on helping each student understand and reach their potential.
• A traditional preparatory curriculum that develops students’ life-long study skills and critical thinking in a structured and safe environment.
• Excellent college counseling support with a focus on finding the right college or next chapter for each student.
• An educational philosophy that fosters teamwork, encouraging students to collaborate, problem-solve, and contribute meaningfully to society.

Springfield Catholic Schools goes beyond academics, offering a diverse range of clubs and sports to keep students actively engaged. With over 18 competitive athletic teams and 20 clubs and organizations, students find a place to thrive as part of the Irish tradition in Springfield Catholic Schools.

Community is a cornerstone of SCS, starting in every classroom and supported by area parishes, parent-led committees and events and Springfield Catholic High School's student leadership development system.

Growing Faith, Knowledge, and Community at Springfield Lutheran

Springfield Lutheran School

2852 S. Dayton Ave., Springfield

Springfield Lutheran School provides a Christian environment where children grow their souls, minds and bodies, equipping each child to reach their God-given potential. The school fosters a safe, loving atmosphere where students grow in both knowledge and faith.

The academic program includes five days of traditional classes, blending book learning with technology. Students participate in daily Bible instruction and weekly classes in French, art, music, library and PE. Beyond academics, hands-on activities encourage fine motor skill development, positive social interaction and creativity through play. Students regularly connect with community members to learn about various careers and special skills. As a school, Springfield Lutheran also does quarterly service projects for local or national organizations that need assistance.

Extracurriculars help students identify their interests, develop skills and bond with others over shared passions. Starting in third grade, students can take band or violin lessons. Fifth through eighth graders can join the athletics program, which offers volleyball, cheerleading, cross-country, basketball, Scholar Bowl, archery and track.

A unique feature of Springfield Lutheran is the “Big Friend/Little Friend” program, where older and younger classes pair up for monthly bonding activities like crafts or games and sit together during weekly chapel services. They also have a parent organization called PALS, which is a great way for parents and grandparents to get involved with volunteering in the school, planning student and family activities and helping parents develop relationships. They care about our students’ families as much as they do their students, and they want all to feel welcomed and loved.

Developing Curiosity, Creativity and Critical Thinking Skills with The Summit Preparatory School

The Summit Preparatory School 

202 E. Walnut Lawn St., Springfield 

The Summit Preparatory School stands as Springfield’s only full-time, fully accredited independent school. Its mission is to equip students for success by providing a progressive education with a challenging curriculum and a supportive environment.

Emphasizing hands-on, project-based learning, The Summit is committed to fostering academic excellence, embracing a holistic perspective on child development and promoting community involvement for students starting at 3 years old. At The Summit, the educational focus revolves around nurturing students’ curiosities and diving into subjects that interest them through research and hands-on projects, such as presentations, plays, dioramas and more—the possibilities are endless. The Summit also has comprehensive special programming that covers physical education, yoga, Spanish, art, music, STEM and outdoor education, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

When it comes to athletics, The Summit is a registered member of the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA). Middle and high school sports and activities vary based on student interest and have included track, cross country, speech and debate, swimming and diving, basketball, golf, tennis and more.

The Summit aims to create life-long learners. The school celebrates its students by inviting families to view and engage with student projects, providing an opportunity for shared learning experiences. Emphasizing service learning, The Summit engages students in initiatives, like service drives for local nonprofits and an annual community service day. In essence, The Summit places a high value on supporting students’ interests and fostering active community involvement.