The Columbia Board of Education recently met to discuss updates on lottery schools and the potential addition of a health science high school. Lottery schools admit students through random selection and focus on specialized areas such as STEM, art, and health care. Ridgeway Elementary was the first lottery school, opening in 2012, followed by others like Benton and Jefferson.
The proposed health science high school would partner with MU Health, beginning in ninth grade. Students will gain practical experience through clinical settings, simulation labs, and internships, with a planned opening as early as the 2027-2028 school year. Board member Dr. Helen Porter noted a high demand for health career classes at the Career Center, illustrating a need for this new school.
They aim to gather input from eighth-grade parents and students through surveys and focus groups, with applications for the lottery school set to open after this process. West Middle School will also transition to a fine arts academy in the same school year, providing more opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the arts. Applications for West Middle School are expected by the end of October.
