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.
With over 40 years in youth development, Pike School's Nancy Hartmann has become an expert in making auxiliary a vital part of the life of an independent school. Read how she creates mutually supportive relationships within her school, allowing auxiliary to thrive and grow. Continue Reading
Audrey Hampton, the Director of Family Life Programs at the University of Chicago's Laboratory Schools, leverages her background in psychology to build positive relationships school-wide. Read her valuable insights in how you can create auxiliary success through creating relationships. Continue Reading
After COVID, Blair Fross decided to re-envision and restructure her after school program. By investing "blood, sweat, and tears" into rebranding, hiring, creating teacher incentives, and community outreach, Belmont Day School's after school enrichment has become "the place to be" in the community. Continue Reading
In SPARC's recent roundtable meeting on staff evaluations, auxiliary leaders shared questions and ideas about the best ways to provide feedback to staff. Read why this is a crucial part of auxiliary team management. Continue Reading
Next summer may seem far away while we're still busy with summer 2024, but we can set ourselves up for success by planning for next year now! From the SPARC Effect podcast, read Kristi Jacobi's strategies to prepare for summer 2025 Continue Reading
Part of the 2024 SPARC National Conference, SPARCbursts are brief presentations, each led by auxiliary industry professionals, delivered in one intense, 75-minute session. Read on to learn more about SPARC's latest professional development offering. Continue Reading
Get an early start on your 2024 SPARC National Conference experience! Sign up for one of three deep dive, pre-conference sessions, all led by SPARC Senior Advisors, to take full advantage of your time in Scottsdale this October. Continue Reading
Providing in-the-moment feedback to an auxiliary staff member can be challenging. Learn how to transform the walk-up experience with neutrality, empathy, and listening while creating a positive culture of open communication. Continue Reading
SPARC 2024 National Conference attendees are in for a treat: the award-winning speaker, educator, and author Michael Brandwein will be our Opening Ignite Session Speaker. An expert on camp and youth development, Michael will share his leadership strategies with the SPARC community. Continue Reading
At Armbrae Adademy in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Ashley Matthews-Duffett founded and heads an innovative after school program. Designed with a focus on its core mission of Creativity, Action, and Service, the CAS program awards points for student involvement and engages them in community service. Continue Reading
Rebecca Stokes joined the SPARC Effect podcast to talk about staying flexible and open to change when growing your after school program. She also shared the most valuable strategy for getting teachers on board with after school. Continue Reading
With changes in demographics, staff recruitment, and family expectations, Heads of School are facing new challenges to their schools' financial stability. Peter Baron, Founder of MoonshotOS, shares how independent schools can adapt and succeed in a shifting cultural and financial landscape. Continue Reading
