Excellence in education has long been a central theme of the Springfield experience. With a high concentration of colleges and universities, including the state’s second-largest university system, learning at every level is valued and actively supported. Here you’ll find Blue Ribbon public schools, exceptional private schools, innovative K-12 programs and undergraduate and graduate degree programs in nearly every field. Whether you’re ready to further your education or want the best possible one for your family, schools in the Springfield region provide a quality education where you can excel.
Springfield is served primarily by Springfield Public Schools (SPS), the largest fully accredited school district in Missouri. The district enrolls more than 24,500 students across five high schools, nine middle schools, 35 elementary schools, and four early childhood centers. Families in the broader metro area also have access to 26 public school districts across five counties.
Springfield R-XII, also known as Springfield Public Schools (SPS), is the largest fully accredited school district in Missouri. The district serves more than 24,500 students and achieved a record 99% graduation rate in 2025. SPS teachers average 12 years of classroom experience. Learn more about Springfield MO public schools including programs, boundaries, and district highlights.
The five-county Springfield metro area is home to 26 public school districts, giving families a range of options beyond the city itself. Nearby districts in communities like Nixa, Ozark, and Republic are also well-regarded and accessible to families relocating to the region.
Yes. All five Springfield public high schools are designated Missouri A+ Schools, with ACT scores above the national average. Nearly two-thirds of SPS teachers hold advanced degrees, and the district achieved a record 99% graduation rate in 2025. See why strong public schools are one of the top reasons families choose to relocate to Springfield.
Yes. SPS offers more than a dozen Choice Programs tailored to different interests and learning styles, including the Health Sciences Academy, the Academy of Exploration in partnership with Bass Pro Shops, GO CAPS, and Fly SPS, which allows qualifying high schoolers to earn a private pilot’s license. SPS is also home to Missouri’s only K-12 International Baccalaureate program.
New families can begin the enrollment process online through the SPS website. You will need your child’s birth certificate, proof of residency, and immunization records. Your child will be assigned to a school based on your home address, and each elementary school hosts in-person registration events each March for the upcoming school year.
Springfield has 16 preparatory, faith-based, and laboratory schools. Options include Greenwood Laboratory School, Gloria Deo Academy, New Covenant Academy, Grace Classical Academy, and The Summit Preparatory School, among others. Browse the full list of private schools in Springfield MO to compare programs, grade levels, and learning approaches.
Springfield has 11 colleges and universities within city limits, including Missouri State University (the state’s second-largest university system with over 25,000 students), Drury University, Evangel University, Ozarks Technical Community College, and Southwest Baptist University. The University of Missouri also has a medical school clinical campus in the city.
Yes. Springfield ranked on Student Loan Hero’s list of cheapest cities for college students, with room-and-board rates and housing costs well below the national average. The city’s overall cost of living runs about 15% below the national average, which makes it a strong landing spot for recent graduates staying in Springfield after finishing their degree.
Yes. Springfield offers summer camps and enrichment programs at nine public schools and parks through the SPARC program, plus gifted education programs through Drury University’s Center for Gifted Education, YMCA camps, and year-round programming through the Springfield-Greene County Library District’s 12 branches.
Springfield topped Student Loan Hero’s list of cheapest cities for college students, with room-and-board rates and housing costs nearly well below the national average.
