Spark ALC operates as a private school in Manatee County that provides the community with options for elementary, middle, and high-school. We have enrolled learners between the ages of 5-18.
We provide a gathering place for our community that feels intentional, safe, and respectful. The rhythm and flow of the day carries learners through their time at Spark ALC choosing between organized offerings and self-directed activities.
Kindergarten-3rd Grade
Our Roots program serves grades K-3rd grade, yet one can find 4th graders that call this program home for a portion of their day. Our mixed-age model allows young people to choose the environment within the school that feels “right.” The Roots program is all about free, open-ended, and imaginative play. Children have plenty of time to follow their interests, practice and develop needed social skills, collaborate with peers, and experiment with different ways of learning.
4th Grade- 6th Grade
Our Branches program serves 4th-6th grade, with 4th grade typically being the transitional year between the Roots and Branches programs. We also have learners in 8th grade that are still content in the Branches program. Learners in this program are developmentally ready to begin planning their day each morning with the help of a facilitator. Young people have the freedom and support to create and follow their own daily schedule in addition to creating and working toward self-selected learning goals. Learners will experiment with different methods of organization and time management to develop executive functioning skills that will carry over into all aspects of life. Each Branches’ learner uses the Agile Learning Cycle in combination with a portfolio to document their learning and progress.
7th Grade- 12th Grade
Our Canopy program serves mature learners in 7th – 12th grades, with 7th or 8th grade typically being the transitional year between the Branches and Canopy programs. Learners in this program form a plan and identify tools and resources they want to use for their own learning. Often the learning is collaborative. At times, specific curriculum is used and offerings are developed to help them achieve their goals, particularly with traditional subjects. Other times, their interests and passions cannot be confined to curriculum or a typical classroom environment, and they have the freedom to explore and experiment with different methods and experiences to facilitate their learning. For this group, we offer the options of narrative reporting or graded reports and either a traditional high school diploma and transcript or an alternative high school diploma.
Drop-off
10:30-3:30
Bring consistent and meaningful connection and community into your homeschool program by joining the Spark ALC homeschool enrichment program. Young people and teens will enjoy the rhythm of the day that allows time for social interaction, structured time to pursue interests, and collaboration with like-minded peers. Sample a typical “day” at Spark and experience self-directing your day, setting intentions, participating in a rotation of weekly offerings, learning within an intentional community, reflecting upon learning, and having lots of fun together! Inquire now to get more information about this highly sought after opportunity to join Spark on a part-time basis!
