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"Ignite the Spark!"
Spark Labs
Incorporating Montessori, Reggio, and Acton principles in the Sparks "Lab" at Evoke, where our STEM leaning Tribe loves to test hypotheses and discover the natural world with hands on exploration.
Lower Level for Ages 4-5 &
Upper Level for Ages 6-7+
Mastering concrete concepts first before moving on to
theory and the digital world in
upper levels.
FAQ
Screen Time & AI
Sparks spend 0 to 20 minutes a day on computers. The time varies based on current Quest, maturity of the learner, and badge plan progress (starting with zero screen time at the youngest levels, and building confidence with computer skills at the highest levels). Sparks do not use AI engines or devices utilizing AI technology.
Nature Time
On core days, Sparks begin the day in nature (weather permitting) for approx 1 hour in the mornings, and break after lunch for up to one hour.
Non-core days (currently Mon/Fri) include time outside for various activities including larger chunks of free time if the learner wants to be outside. As a learner driven school, we never force children to be outside. It is always the learner's choice.
What subjects do Sparks learn?
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Daily badge plan requirements in math and reading ("numbers and letters"). Under this umbrella includes topics like learning to tell time, decimal place, fractions, multiple digit calculations, money math, earth's rotation and the calendar, creating stories and illustrating them, speaking to an audience, reading aloud and independently, writing sentences, basic spelling and eventually typing.
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Quest subjects in the afternoon also include natural science, history, engineering and technology, the arts, introductory physics, chemistry, and entrepreneurship.
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During Socratic launches, our youngest learners develop skills to hold debates and treat each other with respect while deepening their understanding of the world and what makes us human.
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Sparks are given social tools to learn to resolve conflict, understand differences, and speak with kindness.
Testing is never required, but the data is clear. At Evoke, our learners are 2-3 grade levels ahead of the national average. Learners who started at Evoke when we launched are now light years ahead. We believe this is because we embrace a child's natural curiosity. Parents can feel secure knowing what is "play time" to a Spark is actually deep learning being solidified into long term memory-- for the real world and the future ahead.
Are Guides more like traditional "teachers" in Spark Studio?
Sparks guides are the ninjas of Acton Academy guides. We are more directive in Sparks studio than in upper levels, but the goal is to develop independent learners over time, as they grow and demonstrate they're ready to level-up. We consider Sparks Studio like the training wheels of Acton. In the true spirit of Montessori, Evoke guides encourage and invite Sparks to follow modeled behavior, come along on adventures, inspire learning of core skills (like demonstrating new language or math materials), read aloud the steps to science experiments ("goggles on!"), and identify what Sparks need to work on in order to move forward with the badge plan.
In some moments this looks a lot like a traditional teacher, and in other moments it is absolute magic as learners begin teaching each other and stumbling upon great discoveries-- the "ah-has".
At Evoke, we take great care with our Sparks-- that they are 1. safe, 2. kind, and 3. inspired every day. We guide our youngest tribe members with patience, a listening ear, curious questions to spark curiosity, and gentle coaching to keep learners on track.
We would never expect a Spark to have it all figured out. During daily observations, we identify the needs of each learner, and work to continuously meet them where they are at.
When can my child move to the next studio?
We understand parents want children to succeed and not be held behind. Every learner at Acton is on their own path.
When a learner is ready for the Adventure Studio, there are clear signs:
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Free play is no longer of interest-- they search for more in-depth projects
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Intrinsic motivation to complete work/ badges
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Responsibility for self and care of others, concern for the group rather than just for self
Checklist to move up:
1. Completion of Sparks Badge Plan (badges in Math, Reading, & Writing)
2. Guide approval of completed badges
3. Vote of student council members in the Adventure & Discovery studios
Moving up can happen at any time of the year, but we find most Sparks are not ready until at least age 8. While some may be capable of the academic work in the Adventure studio, maturity needed for the higher studios comes with time and practice.
We consider Acton Academy curriculum to be an accelerated path for most children, so we discourage pushing learners to move even faster than planned (especially if the learner is not interested in doing extra work outside of school).
All Sparks will move up in the fall after they turn 8 if they follow the normal badge plan. With our plan, they will be fully prepared for more rigorous work and the unique culture of our Tribe.
Next Step
IS YOUR FAMILY READY FOR ACTON?
This unique method of learning is drastically different from the traditional model of education, especially that of public school. While many learners flourish here, it's not the right school for everyone. Families must be 100% committed and ready for a change. What type of learners and parents fit best?
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