SPARC systematically mobilizes
student insights and voices to improve
school culture, policy and practice.

SUPPORTING EDUCATION AND INNOVATION

Our Mission & Vision

Become a
Member School

Membership Information

  • Nothing gives me more joy as a teacher than seeing students engaged in something they care about. I do not correct every stumble or write a comment about every step they take, nor do I feel any need to do that. SPARC has found a way to get students excited about learning and doing, and the fact that no grades are involved makes the whole process more meaningful. Our students feel a sense of purpose working on a project that affects their own school.

    Michael Hansen
    SPARC Coordinator, St. Albans

  • SPARC has afforded our boys a unique opportunity to learn the skills of social science research, connect with students from other schools, and work to improve our school culture. I am continually amazed by the willingness of our boys to ask great questions about how we might become even stronger as a community. It has been empowering for our SPARC students to see so many of their recommendations become reality at Belmont Hill.

    Greg Schneider
    Head of School, Belmont Hill

  • Over the past few years, The Blake School has incorporated SPARC into a research methods course offered through the Social Studies department. Participating in an authentic conference experience beyond the school walls provides a uniquely motivating reason for students to perform at an optimal level. When asked what the SPARC roundtable experience meant to them, many students shared that they discovered a newfound appreciation for their school. One student shared, "I feel so lucky to go to a school where our teachers have such high expectations for us. I keep thinking about if the roles were reversed, and I saw a presentation where the group had obviously done extensive research while I used ChatGPT or something. I also just had so much fun bonding with my classmates.

    Anne Stavney
    Head of School, The Blake School