MANCHESTER, NH – Applications for Spark Academy of Advanced Technologies public charter school are now open for New Hampshire high school students entering ninth grade this September.
Located on the campus of Manchester Community College, students in this tuition-free, four-year program can earn a certificate or associate degree in fields like advanced manufacturing technology, computer science, cybersecurity, electrical technology, HVAC, welding and more.
Applications are available at www.SparkAcademyNH.org. There will be two more public information open house sessions, May 15 and 23 , from 6 to 8 p.m. Visit facebook.com/educatenh/ for more information
Spark students will be educated in both the sciences and humanities, with curriculum personalized to the student’s needs and interests. Each student will progress at their own pace, graduating with innovative problem-solving and technical skills needed to enter the workforce or continue their studies in higher education.
“Our knowledge of the world around us has always been changing, but even more so today. That is especially true for the young men and women who will graduate from our schools now and in the future. We know that science has a very important role in that future. New discoveries are announced nearly every day along with new questions and new possibilities. If our students want to remain relevant in this ever-changing world, they must be prepared,” said Spark Academy Executive Director Denis Mailloux, former 20-year principal of Trinity High School in Manchester.
The leadership team also includes Dan Larochelle, chair of Manchester Community College’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Department and Vex Robotics educator, and Sarah Shakour Carter, a technical school advocate and home school educator.
Patty Humphrey, an educator and the founder of Spark Academy, also started Academy of Science and Design in Nashua and Founders Academy in Manchester.
Spark Academy was awarded its charter by the state Department of Education on April 11. Its mission is to empower students with opportunities to master technical skills, both practical and theoretical, in the context of a high school and early college program that emphasizes the dignity and value of work.
Information sessions will be held May 15 and May 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. Visit SparkAcademyNH.org or facebook.com/educatenh/ for more information.
