Sparkman staff members worked together to assist students in the new SPARK period to improve their ACT/SAT scores and increase the average for the school. The SPARK staff team has high expectations and details how it can be beneficial.

“Well, we definitely as a school wanted to raise our ACT/SAT scores. Two years ago our average score was pretty high, and we have been down a little bit. So we need to focus on getting our scores up in school. We also need to focus on the demarcation of students that are behind in certain areas so we can get them on task,” Coach Jeff McNealey said. The main question is will this be effective in the long run?

 “I think it starts with the teachers. If they take it seriously and put it out there, I think the students will too.” McNealey said.

SPARK time is new for everybody, not just the students but also the teachers. If they don’t give their best effort in SPARK  to improve and complete their ACT/SAT practice, then SPARK will be a waste.  Teachers have to lead students, but the students have to be in the right mindset.

 “I think if students see the benefit of SPARK, then they will use it effectively. Then the performance from each teacher can buy in and understand how it can affect the student in the long run then hopefully the students can see that as well,” Megan Rogers said. 

Students will have their opinions on SPARK as well. How do they feel about SPARK? 

“I do not like SPARK time. It does help but, it also takes away the little free time we had during school.” Sheika Alvarez said.

The program CERT is also used in SPARK. Students do four practice tests every week as well as some English practice ACT/SATs if they finish. “Well, what if you have missing work or have to study?” students sometimes have the choice of studying or finishing work if their CERT is done. SPARK’s grade is a pass-fail grade. If you use your SPARK time efficiently then you get a 100. Completing the CERT is a 100. Sleeping and not doing CERT can result in a failing grade.