A New Path: LPS Focus Programs Offer Specialized Education

Focus Programs provide Lincoln Public School (LPS) students with the opportunity to explore a variety of unique learning experiences specific to their interests. Among these, the Science Focus Program (SFP) – formerly known as Zoo School – stands out for adventurous students who want a more creative approach to education. We talked to Joaquin, a senior, and Lizzie, a freshman, about their experiences.

Find Your Skillset

The SFP is designed to bring out a curiosity for learning. For Joaquin, this meant diving into interdisciplinary studies of design, photography, and writing. His enthusiasm for photography quickly made him an asset to his peers. “I like photography a lot. It’s one of my favorite things,” Joaquin shared, highlighting how the program allowed him to develop his creativity. As his teacher notes, “Joaquin was our go-to photographer, and everybody asked him to take photos for them.” 

Lizzie’s academic interest lies in biology, and with classes held at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, the SFP experience is truly hands-on. “I love the curriculum,” she said. “I’m able to learn and grow as a scholar by going out into the field.”

By focusing on an individual’s strengths, the program develops students with experiences outside the traditional classroom setting. “In the Geoscience class, we took samples from the creek water to determine if Antelope Creek should be put back on the impaired water list,” said Lizze. “The teachers are so kind, and I’ve found some of my best friends at Zoo School.”

Uplifting Students

Lizzie has been attending the SFP since she started high school. “I’ve already learned so much in a short period,” she said. “Plus, I’m able to participate in extracurricular activities like theater and the Science Olympiad, and I even have a part-time job.” The program is accommodating to students who want to be involved in other LPS activities. Joaquin, for example, is on the soccer team, a sport he’ll continue to play in college next year.

A key benefit of all LPS Focus Programs is the intimate learning environment. “Everyone is so accepting,” said Lizzie – a point Joaquin emphasized. “I think my favorite part was working with the teachers themselves,” he noted. “The class size helps with that because when you have fewer people in a class, you get to know the teachers much better.” This close-knit community fosters not only academic growth but also personal development.

It’s Never Too Late

Joaquin didn’t begin in the SFP until his Junior year, which initially proved challenging. “Starting mid-semester meant adjusting to different goals,” Joaquin said about his late start. “But I quickly discovered the program’s welcoming atmosphere: we all know each other’s names and are really close.” This sense of collaboration and community soon made Joaquin feel right at home.

For students considering joining the program, especially those who might be starting later like Joaquin did, he offered encouraging words: “Starting late isn’t the worst thing in the world. You can catch up, so be brave. Everyone’s here to help you.”

Joaquin’s experience exemplifies how the LPS Focus Programs can reignite a student’s passion for learning. As his parents noted, “I think it allowed Joaquin to rediscover school and enjoy it. He got to see what school could be when it was done in a smaller environment like this.”

Getting a Head Start

LPS Focus Programs are also a good option for students whose career goals are clear cut, allowing individuals to take part in hands-on learning experiences right away. Lizzie, for example, already has a plan for her future.

“I’m going to college and getting a degree in Wildlife biology. I really want to travel the world, and by becoming a wildlife biologist and conservationist, I’ll get to do what I love in locations across the globe.”  

A Focus On Student Futures

While the SFP was the right fit for Lizzie and Joaquin, it’s worth noting that LPS offers a variety of other Focus Programs catering to diverse student interests and career aspirations. Each program shares the goal of providing specialized, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for future academic and professional challenges.

Joaquin’s journey through the SFP demonstrates the power of specialized education in nurturing talent, while Lizzie’s story highlights how there’s value in real-world education experiences. By preparing students in ways that fit their abilities, SFP and other LPS Focus Programs are shaping the future of education in Lincoln and providing ways for students to rediscover their love of learning.