High School Specialized Programs

Student

High School Specialized Programs offer students the opportunity to delve deeper into specific areas of interest, providing a more focused and enriched educational experience. These programs are designed to cater to the diverse talents and passions of students, allowing them to explore subjects such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), arts, humanities, or other specialized fields. By immersing themselves in these targeted programs, students can develop a deeper understanding of their chosen subjects, cultivate critical thinking skills, and engage in hands-on learning experiences. These programs often include specialized coursework, mentorship opportunities, and extracurricular activities that foster a supportive community of like-minded individuals. High School Specialized Programs not only prepare students for further academic pursuits but also equip them with valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied in their future careers.

Spanish Immersion

The mission of the Sioux Falls School District Spanish Immersion Program is to successfully educate each student while developing biliteracy and fostering global competency in an ever-changing world.

The High School Spanish Immersion program is the culmination of the Spanish Immersion program that begins in elementary and progresses to Edison Middle School. Located at Lincoln High School, the High School Spanish Immersion program continues the process of ensuring that students are bi-literate in Spanish and English. Students take at least one Spanish Immersion course each year. Students may attend a different Sioux Falls high school and travel to Lincoln High School for Spanish Immersion courses as their schedule allows.

Currently, the high school Spanish Immersion course options are:

Language Courses

Number of semesters

Type of Credit

Grade Recommendations

Spanish for Spanish Speakers

2

World Language

9 to 11

Spanish Language and Culture

2

World Language

9 to 11

Spanish IV

2

World Language

9 to 11

AP Spanish Language and Culture

2

World Language

10 to 12

AP Spanish Language and Culture

2

World Language

11 to 12

Spanish Capstone

2

CTE; option for dual credit (USD)

12

Content Courses

Number of semesters

Type of Credit

Grade Recommendations

World Geography

1

Social Studies

9 to 10

Global Issues

1

Social Studies Selective

9 to 10

Speech

1

Speech/Debate

9 to 12

Students currently attending the Middle School Spanish Immersion Program are automatically assigned to Lincoln High School to continue their immersion experience. Students may choose to attend one of the other Sioux Falls high schools and travel to Lincoln High School for their Spanish Immersion class if the schedule allows. However, transportation is the individual’s responsibility.

Living outside of the Sioux Falls School District will need to fill out an Open Enrollment Form. You will need to return your Open Enrollment Form to enroll your student into a Sioux Falls High School to continue the Spanish Immersion Program.

Kirk Zeeck

Dr. Kirk Zeeck

Director of Federal Programs and Language Immersion

✆ (605) 367-7923
✉ Email Kirk Zeeck
➢ IPC - Federal Programs

Andrew McKay

Dr. Andy McKay

K-12 Spanish Immersion Specialist

✆ (605) 367-7900
✉ Email Andrew McKay
➢ IPC

PBL Logo

Project Based Learning Academy

Jefferson High School Project Based Learning Academy (PBL) is designed around problems or projects intended to engage students in meaningful learning experiences. Students are expected to master content and skills through the application of discovery learning and actively engaging research. Working collaboratively, students, and facilitators work to produce end products that illustrate student knowledge. With the integration of multiple technologies and collaborative tools, students are immersed in an academic environment that mirrors the professional work world.

Dolly Anderson

Dolly Anderson

Assistant Principal

Director, Project Based Learning Academy

(605) 367-6184
✉ Email Dolly Anderson
➢ IPC - Jefferson High School

Other Specialized Programs

In the dynamic landscape of K-12 education, specialized programs play a pivotal role in catering to the diverse needs and talents of students. Our specialized programs within the Elementary and Middle Schools encompass a spectrum of disciplines, from Spanish Immersion to arts and humanities-focused tracks to ensuring that each student has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.