Pilot Schools

Pilot Schools

As you are aware, the Springfield Public Schools offers an array of school programs to try to serve the diverse needs of our students. Among these programs are three Commonwealth Pilot Schools - schools that are part of the Springfield Public Schools, but operate with autonomy from many district policies and have the ability for SEA members to vote to change working conditions in the SEA Contract for their school.

These schools are created through a Memorandum of Agreement between the Springfield Public Schools (SPS) and the Springfield Education Association (SEA). Through pilot schools, the Springfield Public Schools and the Springfield Education Association hope to create models of educational excellence that foster innovation throughout the school system. We are now offering the opportunity for up to three Springfield schools to convert to become Voluntary Pilot Schools to start up in September 2009.

The SEA and SPS know that this process will take time, energy, and dedication on the part of the staff and your school community. We are pleased to assist you in this endeavor.

The Memorandum of Agreement determines the guidelines within which Springfield Voluntary Pilot Schools must function. The Memorandum of Agreement has just been re-negotiated and covers both Commonwealth Pilot Schools (Duggan, Putnam and Homer) and the Voluntary Pilot Schools. Appendix B covers Voluntary Pilot Schools and Appendix A covers Commonwealth Pilot Schools.

The Request for Proposals includes the process and timeline for developing a voluntary Pilot School.