SPS is the largest district in Missouri, and it does not let middle schoolers travel out of state. 

In Springfield, Missouri, middle schoolers are winning in state competitions, but aren't allowed to go to out-of-state competitions like nationals. My group and I recently won a  2nd place prize at our state National History Day  competition, and we were very excited to show our work and go to a national competition in Washington DC. Recently however, we were told that we were not approved to go due to district policy. These once in a lifetime trips and competitions are out of reach for springfields dedicated middle schoolers. The exposure to national standereds and available networking solutions that national competitions can provide for children simply can not be replicated on a local scale.

A lot of this is not just about the money. Even if the students were willing to fundraise the entire trip, Springfield Public Schools does not permit these students to go. These students are not asking for the money, just permission to go.

This isn't just about NHD. Other students win awards in competitions like Science Fair, Science Olympiad, and more, that qualify for a state competition. A rough estimate states that about 1 in every 200 Springfield Public Schools students qualify to go to a national competition. None of these students who worked so hard to get where they are get to go to a national competition.

Other districts and schools allow these opportunities, like the Columbia Public Schools district in Missouri acknowledges the benefits given to  students. According to the U.S. Department of Education, learning through field trips promotes critical thinking and improves academic performance.

I urge the Springfield Public Schools district to reassess and modify this policy. By allowing middle schoolers to participate in out-of-state competitions, we open doors to a brighter and more promising future for our youth. Let's empower children to dream big and aim high without unnecessary barriers.

Help us make the Springfield Public Schools district a leader in supporting student growth and success. Sign this petition to expand opportunities for students.