SPARK ACADEMY

Spark Academy is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program for 7th and 8th-grade students, designed to ignite interest in a variety of career paths through hands-on, engaging activities. The program offers career exploration and skill-building opportunities across multiple industries, allowing students to rotate through 4-week sessions that introduce them to different fields such as healthcare, engineering, agriculture, and more. Through interactive learning, students gain practical experience and insight into potential career choices, helping them build the skills and knowledge necessary for future success in both high school and beyond. Spark Academy fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, empowering students to make informed decisions about their educational and career goals.

WHAT IS SPARK ACADEMY?

The 4-week rotations in Spark Academy are designed to introduce students to various career paths by offering hands-on, immersive experiences in different fields. Each rotation allows students to explore a new industry, helping them develop skills and insights that will guide their future career decisions. This approach fosters curiosity, encourages career exploration, and prepares students for success in both college and the workforce.

2024-25 Exploratory Classes

Fall Exploratory Classes

Agriculture - Mr. Mills

Financial Literacy - Mr. Esser

Fire Science - Mr. Rasmussen

IGNITE Gives Back - Mrs. Eckles

Construction - Mr. Moores

Athletic Performance - Mr. Finn

Spring Exploratory Classes

Agriculture - Mr. Mills

Culinary - Mr. Esser

Law Enforcement - Mr. Rasmussen

IGNITE Gives Back - Mrs. Eckles

Nutrition/Wellness - Mr. Finn

Emergency Services - Mr. Rasmussen

Spark Mission Mondays

Spark Mission Mondays provide students with a dynamic blend of career exploration and personal development. Each Monday, students meet industry experts who share their knowledge and experiences, allowing students to gain valuable insights into various professions. In addition to these career-focused activities, students can participate in Self-Help Mondays, which offer opportunities for physical activity and relaxation, such as swimming at the CREW or playing games in the field house. Mission Mondays also include skill-building activities, where students engage in board games or teamwork exercises designed to enhance critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. This combination of career exploration and personal growth activities ensures that Spark students are not only prepared for future careers but also equipped with the life skills needed for success.

"Research has identified middle school as a time when students can benefit the most from career exploration, a process of building self-awareness, learning about potential careers, and developing a plan for reaching future goals."

Association for Career & Technical Education

For more information about Spark Academy, email info@ignite-pathways.com.

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