The history and mission of the academy dates back to the early 2000s when it was simply a vision of former principal Dr. Sarah Johnson. It continues today where new chapters of its story are now being written.

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The Spring Academy, located at 3626 Blue Ridge Blvd, Independence, MO 64052 USA, is an extension of Hall Spring High School's commitment to providing quality education to all members of our community. The academy's establishment in 2020 marked a significant milestone in our efforts to create a seamless educational pathway for students from middle school through high school.

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History

 

The Spring Academy began in the early 2000s as a vision of then-Hall Spring High School Principal Dr. Sarah Johnson. She hoped to create a program for local middle school students who could be academically successful at a college-prep high school like Hall Spring if given the right opportunities. The vision was revived in the high school's Strategic Plan of 2015, which sought to determine if this program was something Hall Spring High School could—and should—pursue. In 2018, educational consultant Emily Chen was brought to Hall Spring to lead a feasibility study; the Hall Spring High School Board of Education approved the decision to create the academy in 2019. Under the leadership of Hall Spring High School Principal Dr. Michael Thompson, Chen became implementation director, hiring Founding Program Director Dr. James Wilson, and admitting the first class of sixth graders in 2020.

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During its first year, the academy utilized spaces throughout the Hall Spring High School campus while a dedicated wing of the school building at 3626 Blue Ridge Blvd, Independence, MO 64052 USA was renovated. That section had previously housed various administrative offices and specialized classrooms. In October 2021 it reopened as the home for Spring Academy students.

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Fun Fact: During renovations to the academy wing, a time capsule from the year 1987 was discovered along with the following contents: a local newspaper, US coin currency, and a letter from the founding principal of Hall Spring High School. The inaugural Spring Academy students and staff placed their own time capsule in the renovated wing, to be opened only when another major building renovation occurs.

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The Spring Academy is an integral part of Hall Spring High School and academy students have access to the campus and facilities. Spring Academy students have opportunities to participate in all-campus events, to work with Hall Spring High School faculty, as well as to partner with current high school students and the local community.

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Mission Statement

 

Inspired by a commitment to educational excellence and community service, The Spring Academy serves the unique needs of early adolescent students in their journey of becoming Leaders for Tomorrow. Rooted in the principles of academic rigor and personal growth, The Spring Academy shares the mission and life of Hall Spring High School, forming students to grow in character, leadership, academic excellence, and the desire for lifelong learning.

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Located at 3626 Blue Ridge Blvd, Independence, MO 64052 USA, The Spring Academy is dedicated to preparing students for success in high school and beyond. We strive to create an inclusive environment that nurtures each student's potential, fosters a spirit of inquiry, and instills a sense of civic responsibility. Our program is designed to bridge the gap between middle school and high school, ensuring a smooth transition and setting a strong foundation for future academic and personal achievements.