SPARC is a dynamic and energetic community. Stay informed about all that is going on in the auxiliary world: see profiles of auxiliary leaders, take deep dives into notable programs, and explore important themes.
Over the past five years, schools that have treated auxiliary programming as an intentional, professionally managed business line (not an afterthought bolted onto facilities and staff time) have seen outsized revenue growth compared to schools that run auxiliary programs passively. The distinction m Continue Reading
At our 2025 National Conference, Jim sat in on a session led by Julie Gomez, Director of Auxiliary Programs at Lake Highland Preparatory School. Her topic was simple and practical: hiring summer social media interns. Jim took the idea home, adapted it for his school, and turned it into a success. Continue Reading
Over the past five years, auxiliary programs in independent schools have undergone a meaningful shift. What was once often treated as a collection of individual programs is increasingly functioning as something larger: a school enterprise. Continue Reading
Through a bold reorganization of the siloed programs at Parish Episcopal School, Amy Gilchrist created new capacity for growth and innovation, streamlined processes, and improved staff morale. Continue Reading
Auxiliary and Advancement departments, historically operating in different lanes, are discovering that by working together with intention, they can generate new donor revenue through creative and strategic thinking designed to attract families though summer and auxiliary programs. Continue Reading
Summer and auxiliary departments operate, in many ways, on the front line; they often experience and see issues before the rest of the school. By engaging with auxiliary leaders, senior leadership can empower them in ways that benefit the whole school. Continue Reading
This spring, SPARC was on the ground with several member school summer programs presenting the "Fill Your Toolbox" and "The Power of Camp" workshops. Here are 5 ways SPARC bolstered their staff training to create a strong staff culture and the best summer camp experience possible. Continue Reading
The highlight of the 2025-2026 Leadership Institute was the collection of capstone projects developed by this year's cohort of auxiliary professionals. The five standout capstones featured here show how the Leadership Institute's comprehensive skill-building sessions lead to real-world success. Continue Reading
Kim Aycock and Jolly Corley believe that shaping camp culture begins with developing a strong staff community. In a recent SPARC webinar, they shared 12 steps to create a staff culture for an impactful and joyful camp experience. Continue Reading
Auxiliary programs attract leaders from a variety of backgrounds with diverse skill sets, experiences, and education. SPARC Senior Advisor David Sullivan shares why professional development is a must for auxiliary leaders to achieve program success. Continue Reading
After eight years as Marlborough School's Director of Summer School and Enrichment Programs, Ida Dahan shares what she's learning about ensuring the future of the school's auxiliary programs through strategic succession planning. Continue Reading
Schools spend enormous energy crafting the message families receive at open houses and admissions events. But that targets families who have already decided to look at your school. What about the families who haven't decided yet? Continue Reading
