Health Sciences Academy

Diagnose. Develop. Discover.

Program at a Glance

Time

9:00 am-4:00 pm

Grade Level

8th; 50 students

Location

1235 E. Cherokee St, Springfield, MO 65804

Transportation

Students ride from a designated shuttle location near their home to their CHOICE program.

About the Program

The Health Sciences Academy (HSA) provides 8th-grade students with an immersive introduction to the world of health care and medical careers. Through a unique partnership with Mercy, students participate in hands-on learning experiences, connecting classroom instruction to real-world health science applications. Using health care as a lens for learning, students explore topics such as human body systems, wellness, medical technology, patient care, and the many career pathways available within the health industry. HSA emphasizes curiosity, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving while helping students develop a deeper understanding of health-related issues and professions. Students participate in interactive projects, career-connected experiences, and authentic learning opportunities that allow them to investigate challenges facing the health care field and explore potential solutions. Designed for students who are interested in science, helping others, and exploring future careers, the Health Sciences Academy encourages learners to ask questions, think critically, and engage with the world around them. Through meaningful experiences and exposure to health-related concepts and careers, students build a strong foundation for future high school coursework and career exploration in the health sciences. Enrollment in HSA is available through Springfield Public Schools' CHOICE application process. Admission is determined through a lottery process when the number of applicants exceeds program capacity.

A teacher interacts with students wearing red scrubs and goggles as they dissect something.

In the foreground, a bowl of colorful blocks sits on a table, while in the background, children in red scrubs engage in physical therapy activities with swings and balance equipment.

Students in red scrubs practice intubation on a mannequin in the foreground, while anatomical models and medical equipment are visible on shelves in the background.

Extracurricular Activities and Athletics

Students enrolled in the Health Sciences Academy become Pershing Middle School students for their 8th-grade year and have access to all extracurricular activities, clubs, and athletic programs offered through Pershing. Because students are enrolled at Pershing, they are not eligible to participate in activities or athletics at their home middle school during their 8th-grade year. Families interested in learning more about athletic opportunities are encouraged to visit the Pershing Athletics page.

Elective Courses

Health Sciences Academy students complete their fine and practical arts coursework through Pershing Middle School. During 7th block, students travel to Pershing to participate in elective courses that support their interests and provide a well-rounded educational experience. Elective offerings may include art, choir, band, orchestra, Project Lead the Way (PLTW), physical education, and other courses based on student interest and availability. Physical Education (PE) is a required course for all 8th-grade students and may be completed in several ways. Students may take PE through LAUNCH during the summer before their 8th-grade year or during the school year. Students may also enroll in a seated PE course at Pershing; however, available seats are limited, so completing PE through LAUNCH is encouraged when possible. Students enrolled in a full-year band or orchestra course are required to complete PE through LAUNCH due to scheduling constraints.

Lottery Eligibility Requirements

Applications for the Health Sciences Academy are accepted annually through a lottery process. The application window is open from November 1 through December 1, providing eligible students and families the opportunity to apply for enrollment.

Any current 7th grade SPS student is eligible to apply for their 8th grade year.

Any current SPS student, or any non-SPS student who resides within the Springfield Public Schools attendance area, is eligible to apply.

Students must maintain at least 90% attendance during the current and previous school year.