High School Instruction
Our high schools, grades nine through 12, represent the final stage in a student's K-12 career. In addition to thinking about the classroom, students are focused on their careers and their role in the community at the culmination of their hard work. We are committed to providing an array of opportunities to meet the diverse needs of our students. By combining a core academic foundation with three supporting elements that provide for the development of the whole child, we seek to meet our goal of 100 percent placement of students through academically advanced courses and professional technical programs.
Graduation Requirements
Springfield Public Schools believes that student success is our most important outcome. We are committed to upholding the dream of opportunity for each of Springfield's children and we stand behind our vision of "Every Student a Graduate Prepared for a Bright and Successful Future."
In 2007, the State Board of Education adopted new Oregon high school diploma requirements. These new requirements were designed to ensure that all students have the skills necessary for success in the 21st century.
Credit Requirements (24 total)
- English: 4 credits
- Math: 3 credits (at the Algebra 1 level and higher)
- Science: 3 credits (scientific inquiry, 2 with lab experiences)
- Social Science: 3 credits
- Health: 1 credit
- PE: 1 credit
- Second Language/Art/Career & Technical Education: 3 credits
- Electives: 6 credits
Credit for Proficiency
All students will have the option to earn credit for demonstrating proficiency. This means that a student is given credit for successful demonstration of knowledge and skills that meets or exceeds defined levels of performance.
- Students may demonstrate proficiency through classroom work or documentation of learning experiences outside of school, or through a combination of these means.
- The State Board adopted revised OAR 581-022-1131 Credit Options in April 2009.
- For more information about options for earning proficiency credits, please refer to your student’s high school academic counselor.
Essential Skills
Beginning in 2012, the state began phasing in requirements for students to demonstrate that they are proficient in certain “essential skills” – skills that are deemed critical for future success – before they are awarded the diploma.
- Read and comprehend a variety of text
- Write clearly and accurately
- Apply mathematics in a variety of settings
Personalized Learning Requirements
Personalized learning, learning beyond the classroom, and connections to the adult world are critical for preparing each student, whatever path they take after graduation, for the vast challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. The Personal Learning Requirements help to personalize the diploma for each student and help students plan for their post-high school goals. Oregon requires students complete personalized learning activities as part of the graduation requirements.
Additional Information about the Traditional Diploma
A student will be awarded a Springfield Public Schools diploma if:
- he/she meets the academic content and credit standards;
- completes the personalized learning requirements, and;
- demonstrates proficiency in Essential Skills, as required by the Oregon Department of Education and adopted by the Springfield Public Schools School Board.
Students are accountable for the graduation requirements that apply to the year they first entered 9th grade, regardless of whether graduating early or taking longer than 4 years to graduate.
Other Diploma Options
Some students will be eligible for other diploma options. The eligibility criteria for alternative diploma and certificate options are set by state law. Students who are eligible, and their parents, will be informed by school staff as part of the student’s individual planning process.
Our High Schools
Academy of Arts and Academics
Gateways
Springfield
Thurston