Fayetteville Expands Choice Program Options to Junior High Schools
Fayetteville Public Schools (FPS) is expanding its choice program to include junior high schools, offering more diverse learning opportunities to 5th and 6th-grade students. This move aims to provide unique thematic programs that cater to different interests and learning styles.
The Holt Science Explorers program offers a scientific approach to learning, focusing on hands-on experimentation, collaborative learning, and field experiences to cultivate critical thinking and a love for scientific inquiry. This immersive program is designed to take students on a dynamic journey through various scientific disciplines. On the other hand, the John L. Colbert Outdoor Adventure program immerses students in the natural world, fostering ecological awareness and developing outdoor skills through hands-on activities and field trips.
These programs are part of FPS Choice, which presents alternatives for families within Fayetteville Public Schools to make informed decisions about their children’s education. Each program includes at least one day of experiential learning each week, featuring hands-on experiences through field trips, onsite activities, and guest speakers. Students will continue to learn the regular 5th and 6th-grade core curriculum while interweaving it with the focus of the choice program theme.
The selection process for these programs involves a lottery system, where students are randomly assigned to attend the choice program based on availability. The applications for the 2025-26 school year will open early in 2025, and FPS encourages families to apply for this unique learning experience. By expanding these programs to junior high schools, FPS aims to equip students with relevant skills and interests that will help them achieve their full potential.
Key Features of the Choice Program
- Holt Science Explorers: Focuses on scientific inquiry and critical thinking, encouraging hands-on experimentation and collaborative learning.
- John L. Colbert Outdoor Adventure: Emphasizes ecological awareness and outdoor skills through hands-on activities and field trips.
- Experiential Learning: Includes at least one day of experiential learning each week with hands-on experiences like field trips and onsite activities.
- Lottery System: Students are selected to attend the choice program through a lottery system based on availability.
- Application Period for 2025-26 School Year: Applications will open early in 2025.
The expansion of these programs reflects FPS’s commitment to providing tailored educational opportunities that cater to the diverse interests and learning styles of their students. By offering such unique learning experiences, FPS aims to inspire curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning among its students.