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-5th Grade
Our Roots & Branches program serves Kindergarten through 5th grade learners, with some 6th graders continuing to participate part-time based on their developmental needs and interests. Our mixed-age model allows each young person to choose the environment within Spark ALC that feels right for their learning journey.
Roots & Branches blends foundational academics with choice-driven exploration. Learners engage in daily reading, writing, and math practice through small group instruction, hands-on projects, and personalized support. At the same time, they are encouraged to follow their interests, build social-emotional skills, and participate in open-ended play, creative expression, and collaborative problem-solving.
We believe academic growth and personal freedom are not mutually exclusive—in fact, they thrive together. By fostering both structure and autonomy, we help children become confident thinkers, capable learners, and curious community members. For those preparing to transition into our Canopy program, we offer intentional scaffolding to ensure they’re ready for the increased independence and responsibility of middle school life at Spark.
Grades 6–8
Canopy–Middle is Spark ALC’s dynamic learning program for 6th through 8th graders, designed to support the unique transition from childhood to adolescence with a balance of increasing academic challenge, personal responsibility, and meaningful freedom.
Learners in Canopy take greater ownership of their education by setting goals, managing their schedules, and engaging in both core academic studies and self-directed projects. With guidance from facilitators, they deepen their skills in reading, writing, math, and research while also exploring interests through hands-on inquiry, interdisciplinary themes, and collaborative learning experiences.
We provide a flexible structure that meets learners where they are—offering individualized academic support, enrichment opportunities, and real-world application of knowledge. Social-emotional growth, reflective practice, and intentional culture-building are woven throughout the experience to support the development of confident, capable, and compassionate young people.
Canopy–Middle is designed not only to prepare learners for high school, but to empower them to discover who they are, what they care about, and how they learn best.
Grades 9–12
Canopy–High is Spark ALC’s high school program for learners in grades 9–12 who are ready to take full ownership of their education and future. Rooted in self-direction and community collaboration, Canopy–High supports teens as they pursue rigorous academics, meaningful work, and purposeful personal growth.
Learners co-create their educational paths through goal-setting, portfolio development, and a mix of independent study, collaborative projects, and facilitator-supported coursework. Whether preparing for college, entrepreneurship, trades, or creative careers, learners build the habits, skills, and mindset needed to navigate adult life with confidence.
Core academic subjects—including English, math, science, and social studies—are integrated into interdisciplinary experiences and personalized learning plans. In addition, learners explore electives, internships, dual enrollment, and real-world projects that reflect their passions and long-term goals.
At Canopy–High, teens have the flexibility to pursue either a traditional high school diploma or a non-traditional graduation pathway based on their needs and aspirations. Both options are supported through intentional planning, documentation, and mentorship.
Canopy–High is more than a high school—it’s a launchpad for life. We empower young people to reflect deeply, act intentionally, and design lives of purpose, agency, and impact.
Drop-off
June 8, 2026- June 19, 2026
Spark Summer Enrichment is a vibrant, hands-on experience designed to keep young minds engaged, curious, and connected during the summer months. Built around team building, high-interest field trips, and project-based learning, our program offers a dynamic blend of structure and freedom that reflects Spark ALC’s learner-driven philosophy.
Each week, learners collaborate on real-world projects, explore big ideas through guided inquiry, and embark on experiential adventures that bring learning to life—whether it’s visiting local ecosystems, engaging with community partners, or diving into creative challenges on campus. Social-emotional growth, relationship-building, and meaningful play are woven throughout the experience to create a joyful and supportive learning community.
Spark Summer is open to homeschoolers, unschoolers, and self-directed learners who thrive in environments that celebrate curiosity, agency, and collaboration. It’s the perfect way to stay connected, inspired, and growing all summer long.
