New school facilities in Republic and Willard unveiled, work continues on SGF projects

REPUBLIC, MO - The cutting of a ribbon marked a new day for Republic schools. At a ceremony on Monday, the district unveiled its new intermediate facility for 5th and 6th-grade students.  

The new school could not have come any sooner for the district.

“We have been pretty full these last four or five years, and we were going to have to do something to relieve that pressure,” said Superintendent Dr. Matt Pearce.

This new modern school creates more space, while providing kids a nice place to grow.

Pearce said, “There are areas where there are great windows and natural light coming in. They can see out better for their brain, better for their health, and development."

In Springfield, construction crews will remain busy on projects. Work is coming along quickly on the new Pipkin Middle School, set to open in 2027

Meanwhile, a few blocks away, the new Reed Academy is coming along.  It is set to open in  2026.

The Springfield projects are part of Proposition S, which was passed in 2023. It also includes safety upgrades to all schools, renovations to Pershing School, and new storm shelters at several facilities across the district.

To the north in Willard, students are being greeted with some improvements. The district is rolling out its new turf fields for the athletic program and other activities.   

Andy McFarland, Head Football Coach, said, “We were the last grass field in the field, see, and that was a source of pride. And there are a lot of things that on a Friday night, we're good at.  But it just offers so many more possibilities, opportunities, more space, and practice. And we feel like it creates a safer environment for our kids. 

The district explained the new field will provide space for sports like football and soccer, as well as band activities.  

McFarland said, “We always want to be trying to improve what we have, but it doesn't mean we're not proud of what we already have. We're going to take care of that to the best of our ability. But, you know, improvements in every area are great for our school. They're great for our kids, and we're excited about the future."