No! Spark Academy is a fully public school. We are part of the Lawrence Public School System. However, we do have "earned autonomy," meaning that, while we are a fully unionized, public school, we still have some of the decision making control and flexibility that helps us serve our students the best we can.

Yes, as part of Lawrence Public Schools, Spark Academy teachers and paraprofessionals can join their unions. The Lawrence Teachers and Paraprofessionals Unions offer many benefits to employees, and advocates for the best possible learning community for LPS teachers, students, and families. You can find out more about the mission of LTU-1019 at their website.

Spark Academy provides students with a safe, caring environment for students that supports them achieving their goals in an academically rigorous environment. Our school has a fully staffed climate team that supports each grade level with student needs, and works to build a safe learning environment for all students to thrive in. Additionally, Spark Academy offers students access to school counselors who are available to support students with social and emotional needs. 

Spark provides robust teaching and learning support for students that includes unique learning intervention tailored to their specific needs. Additionally, about 1/3 of our students participate in our after school programs, where students can get extra tutoring and join clubs such as theater and art, participate in sports like basketball, soccer, and cheerleading, and access advanced math after school. 

At Spark Academy, one of our core values is active living. That's why every student at Spark has 50 minutes of fitness class each day. In addition, students also have 15 minutes of recess each day and we encourage our teachers to incorporate movement in their lessons, not only for the physical benefits for kids' health, but for the academic and social emotional benefits as well.