Have you ever wondered what happens inside The Dome -- or how the building has changed since its days as South High School?
On March 25, Springfield City School District is opening its doors for The Dome Experience, an event designed to give families, community members, and partners an inside look at how students are developing real-world skills and exploring career pathways inside one of the city’s most historic buildings.
Beginning at 4:30 PM, guests are invited to tour the facility and see firsthand how The Dome has been transformed into a hub for hands-on learning, afterschool programming, and student-led opportunities.
During the event, visitors can explore several programs that help students gain practical skills and career exposure. These include tours of skill-building areas such as welding, carpentry, electrical training, and the PAES (Practical Assessment Exploration) Lab, where students work on developing vocational and life skills.
The Dome is also home to a variety of afterschool spaces designed to support both creativity and academic success. Guests will be able to see how programs like YouMedia, Makerspace, and the Recycle Bike Shop give students a safe place to collaborate, receive tutoring and mentoring, and pursue their interests in technology, design, and hands-on projects.
Attendees can also learn more about student-led opportunities such as the Student Print Shop (PawPrints) and Cat Chat Podcast Studio.
In addition to touring the learning spaces, visitors will have the opportunity to step inside two historic locations within the facility: the iconic John Legend Theater and Tiffany Gym. These spaces continue to serve as gathering places for performances, athletics, and community events.
A question-and-answer session will take place at 5:45 PM in the John Legend Theater, offering guests the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the programs available to students.
The event is free and open to the public, and attendees will also have the chance to enter a giveaway for Wildcat-branded merchandise.
Students, staff, alumni & community members are encouraged to attend, meet the people behind the programs, and see how the space is helping students prepare for their futures.
The Dome Experience takes place March 25, beginning at 4:30 PM.