SPARC National Conference 2024: Full Schedule

Advancing independent schools through auxiliary program excellence

11:00am MST

CONFLICT COMMUNICATION: How to Deal with Disagreement, Conflicts, & Hot People without Antacids

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST

This skill-packed, internationally acclaimed session by a national award-winning communication expert and trainer demonstrates practical, essential skills you will use every day to (1) handle conflict with greater confidence and calmness and (2) build more open and collaborative communication for outstanding teams and great service. Deal with greater confidence and credibility with contrary positions, disappointed and upset people, and more.

Speakers

Michael Brandwein

Speaker | Educator | Author, Michael Brandwein

Michael (michaelbrandwein.com) is a nationally award-winning expert on youth development and training for camps, schools, and other youth programs. His reputation is international: He has presented in all 50 states and on six of the seven continents. Michael is the number one best-selling... Read More →

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
SoHo 1

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

11:00am MST

Creative Marketing Strategies on A Budget

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST

Valley Ho 2

Often Auxiliary departments are working with limited marketing budgets for our programs, which can be both exciting and challenging. With a little creativity and strategic thinking, you can implement innovative marketing strategies that will attract customers, create great storytelling opportunities, and grow your programs, even on a shoestring budget. We will offer helpful frameworks to think about marketing your auxiliary program while discussing real-world examples and ideas that will provide actionable take-aways to try at your school.

Speakers

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC

David Sullivan

Senior Advisor, SPARC

David began his career in education as an instructor, then Director, at Explo and later was on the faculty at Milton Academy and Northfield Mount Hermon School. For the last 23 of his 36 year career, he led The Brooklin School and Breakwater Learning, the latter being an educational... Read More →

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
Valley Ho 2

Breakout Session, Marketing and Communication

11:00am MST

Following Your Brain: Critical Relational Skill Development and the Neuroscience that Guides It.

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST

Valley Ho 1

Now more than ever, relational skills like co-regulation, perspective taking, problem solving and self-expression are critical to handling interactions with campers, students, staff, and colleagues. On a larger scale, these skills inform the leadership and stewardship of a functional and thriving community culture.
Come and learn more about the ways in which the basic tenets of brain anatomy can provide a roadmap to good coaching/training, program development, behavior management, and more. Hands-on skill practice and an accessible, simple model of the relevant neuroscience basics will guide our time together so you can leave with practical tools to share!

Speakers

Maggie Magner

Director of Summer & Auxiliary Programs, The Fenn School

I've spent my whole adult life working with and advocating for kids. Currently I do that work as the Director of Summer Fenn and Auxiliary Programs at the Fenn School where I get to serve families and kids by providing an impactful camp and enrichment experiences for hundreds of children... Read More →

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
Valley Ho 1

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

11:00am MST

How to Make Your Team Look Good! A Guide to Mission Statements, Goals, and Annual Reports

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST

Want to create a clear vision for yourself or your team? Want to look good for your boss? Look no further than the ultimate trio: mission statement, annual goals, and annual reports. This session will provide a guide for how to create and utilize these documents each year to highlight your accomplishments and contributions to your school.

Speakers

Hal Turner

Director of Auxiliary Programs & Campus Management, McDonogh School

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST

Breakout Session, Business Offering

11:00am MST

Key Components to Have an Inclusive Summer Program

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST

Tropicana

This presentation addresses essential aspects for creating inclusive camps, focusing on staffing, pricing, facilities, programming, and climate. Effective staffing involves training on disability awareness and fostering empathy among counselors. Flexible pricing structures ensure accessibility for all families. Accessible facilities, including accommodations and equipment, are crucial for physical inclusion. Tailored programming accommodates diverse needs, offering a range of activities for all abilities. A supportive climate fosters acceptance and celebrates diversity. See how CCS Summer Camps uses practical strategies to accommodate over 40 campers with significant disabilities each summer. This session will help provide insight into implementing inclusive practices for your program to create a camp environment where every camper, including those with disabilities, feels welcome, valued, and empowered to participate fully.

Speakers

Carie Roncin

Director of Ext. Care and Summer Camp, Chattanooga Christian School

I just started my 9th year as the Director of Extended Care and Summer Programs at Chattanooga Christian School. I was previously a classroom teacher and then a Special Education Interventionist.

Monday October 7, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
Tropicana

Breakout Session, Program Design

1:30pm MST

Rentals 101: The Magic Rental Bus Goes to SPARC!

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST

Tropicana

As Ms. Frizzle always says, “Take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!” New to the rental world and unsure where or how to start? So were we! After meeting at SPARCLI, Nate and I connected, strategizing on how to best navigate this rental world. Located in two different states, with two completely different rental programs, we have created a road map that can help you navigate YOUR rental world. Whether you are inheriting a program or growing your own, this session is for you. We will provide key strategies and tools to help you assess your program's current structure and develop short-term and long-term goals to create a sustainable rental program that aligns with your school's auxiliary vision. Our final destination may not be the solar system, but we sure hope you will join us as we take the wheel of the Magic Rental Bus! Seatbelts, Everyone! Beep, Beep!

Speakers

Katie McLean

Associate Coordinator of Auxiliary Programs, St. Mark's School (Southborough, MA)

Nate Edmunds

Director of Auxiliary Programming, The Park School (Baltimore, MD)

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
Tropicana

Breakout Session, Business Offering

1:30pm MST

Super Staff SuperVision: Leading & Coaching to Bring Out the Best in Staff Leaders

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST

SoHo 1

Michael wrote Super Staff SuperVision, the nationally number one best-selling book on camp staff supervision that’s considered the “bible” for training leadership teams. This fast-paced session demonstrates skills that directors, site directors, assistant directors, supervisors, and other leadership team members can use immediately and every day to motivate staff and coach them to their highest levels of performance, and help ensure that we have a creative, vibrant program. It explains exactly what to do when “walking around” and how to develop positive relationships with the staff team while supporting their success. This skill-packed session demonstrates terrific techniques to maximize staff performance.

Speakers

Michael Brandwein

Speaker | Educator | Author, Michael Brandwein

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
SoHo 1

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

1:30pm MST

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Afterschool Programming

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST

Valley Ho 1

This session we delve into the multifaceted world of afterschool programming. From success stories to stumbling blocks, we'll explore the full spectrum of experiences in creating and maintaining effective afterschool programs. In "The Good," we'll showcase successful models of afterschool programs that have made a tangible impact on students' lives and communities. Through case studies and real-world examples, participants will gain insights into what makes these programs thrive and how they can replicate these successes in their own contexts. Transitioning to "The Bad," we'll confront the challenges and obstacles commonly faced in afterschool programming. From limited resources and funding constraints to staffing issues and logistical hurdles, we'll address the tough realities that practitioners encounter and offer strategies for overcoming them. Finally, we'll confront "The Ugly" when your vision for afterschool programming clashes with the school's vision or other stakeholders' expectations. Through interactive discussions and scenario-based exercises, participants will learn how to navigate conflicts, build consensus, and advocate effectively for their vision while aligning with broader organizational goals.

Speakers

Kate Vizen

Director of Student Life & Strategic Programming, Inly School

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
Valley Ho 1

Breakout Session, Program Design

1:30pm MST

This Job is Bananas

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST

Valley Ho 2

Join us for a wild and energetic session on how being an auxiliary programs leader can be bananas! Explore exciting leadership ideas while learning how to keep the various “monkeys” in line (your staff, school leadership, families, etc.) and avoid going nuts and wanting to ‘split’. Walk away with a practical action plan to navigate the jungle of responsibilities and ensure your programs run smoothly. Don't miss out on this fun-filled session that will leave you feeling ready to take on any challenge with confidence and enthusiasm!

Speakers

Karen McCann McClelland

Senior Advisor, SPARC

Karen McCann McClelland has over 30 years of experience in auxiliary and summer programs. As director of Auxiliary Programs and Sidwell Summer which serves over 3200 campers annually, she coordinates the marketing, hiring, program design/implementation, and evaluation of 12 different... Read More →

Dan O'Neil

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Episcopal High School

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
Valley Ho 2

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

1:30pm MST

Using AI to Boost Your Auxiliary Programs

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST

SoHo 2

Designed for both AI novices and Chat GPT pros, this session will delve into the innovative integration of AI to enhance and augment summer and auxiliary programs. We will explore eight immediately applicable strategies that include improved copy editing, brainstorming auxiliary program revenue streams, analyzing survey data, crafting challenging emails, and engaging AI as a dynamic thought partner. We will also discuss AI-based educational offerings for your Summer and Enrichment Programs. Explore endless possibilities in enhancing engagement and efficiency in summer, aftercare, enrichment, and flex programming. Don't miss out on this transformative discussion at the forefront of educational technology!

Speakers

Kat Yorks

Director of Summer at Lakeside, Lakeside School

Kevin Babuder

Director of Auxiliary and Innovative Programs, Chadwick School

Director of Chadwick Summer Programs since 2017, and Director of Auxiliary and Innovative Programs since 2023, Kevin continues to innovate and think outside the box at Chadwick School. His latest venture is a partnership between Chadwick School and AltaSea, a unique public-private... Read More →

Monday October 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
SoHo 2

Breakout Session, Business Offering

10:45am MST

A Management Toolkit for Independent School Leaders: Strategies for Innovation and Growth

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST

SoHo 1

Join us for an engaging session where we’ll align key lessons from in-depth case studies with eight essential business competencies for independent school leaders. Discover strategies to drive innovation and growth, enhance talent management, foster adaptability, and make data-informed decisions. Through interactive activities and practical examples, you’ll learn how to apply these competencies to uncover opportunities for your career and school. Gain insights from schools like Seattle Academy, Mount Vernon School, and Providence Country Day School, and walk away with a management toolkit to empower your career and school.

Speakers

Peter Baron

Founder, MoonshotOS

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
SoHo 1

Breakout Session, Business Offering

10:45am MST

Embracing the Future: How AI Can Transform K-12 School Marketing

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST

Valley Ho 2

Explore the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence in K-12 school marketing. This session, "Embracing the Future: How AI Can Transform K-12 School Marketing," delves into the latest AI advancements and their practical applications in school marketing. Learn how to leverage AI tools like ChatGPT for creating engaging content and enhancing marketing strategies. Through interactive activities and real-world use cases, participants will gain hands-on experience in prompt engineering and developing AI-driven marketing campaigns. The session also addresses common concerns about AI, including bias and data privacy, equipping school marketing professionals with the knowledge and skills to harness AI effectively and ethically. Join Brendan for an insightful journey into the future of school marketing.

Speakers

Brendan Schneider

Founder and CEO, SchneiderB Media Inc.

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Valley Ho 2

Breakout Session, Marketing and Communication

10:45am MST

SPARC Tools: Always There for You

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST

Tropicana

SPARC has a growing inventory of leadership and management tools that support auxiliary program success. This fast-paced session will cover some of the “greatest hits” and introduce a couple of new ones. We’ll touch on a wide ranging set of topics including goal setting, evaluation, coaching, problem solving, strategic planning, and others. From conceptual frameworks and models to concrete exercises and methods, this session will leave you with a scrapbook of actionable ideas, inspiration, and next steps.

Speakers

Karen McCann McClelland

Senior Advisor, SPARC

David Sullivan

Senior Advisor, SPARC

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Tropicana

Breakout Session, Business Offering

10:45am MST

The Complete Employee Journey: Key Steps for Creating Thriving Teams

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST

Valley Ho 1

Explore the essential stages of the employee life cycle and learn how to build thriving teams from start to finish. This 75-minute session, led by HR expert Krystal Speed, will guide you through effective hiring practices, comprehensive onboarding, impactful mentorship, and continuous professional development. Get strategies for enhancing employee well-being, boosting retention, and driving engagement. Learn how to support your staff at every stage of their journey, fostering a productive and positive work environment.

Speakers

Krystal Speed

CEO, Your HR Strategist

Everyone deserves to thrive at work! As the CEO of Your HR Strategist, I help startups and small businesses create workplaces where their people can thrive. As a certified Senior Professional in HR (SPHR), think of me as your trusted thought partner and HR expert, helping you build... Read More →

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Valley Ho 1

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

10:45am MST

Unleashing Summer Camp Magic: Crafting Engaging Special Events

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST

SoHo 2

It’s no secret that summer camps are all about creating unforgettable experiences! Discover how integrating special events and camp-wide celebrations can enrich the overall camp experience. This session will explore the art, logistics, and follow-through of creating and planning special events that are not only fun and engaging but also leave lasting impressions on campers. Get ready to unlock the magic behind creating experiences that resonate long after the campfire fades.

Speakers

Laura Walker

Director of Summer Day Camps, Charlotte Latin School

Camp Name: Pippi • Charlotte Latin School • Summer Camp Director • Charlotte Latin School • Birth-4yr ECE • TK-12 Coed academic, college-preparatory school • Students: 1,550 • Charlotte, NC • Over 10 years of camp experience.

Katie Peterson

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Breck School

Dan O'Neil

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Episcopal High School

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
SoHo 2

Breakout Session, Program Design

1:00pm MST

Building Thriving Workplaces: 6 Game-Changing Strategies for Effectively Partnering with Your HR Team

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

Valley Ho 1

Discover how to create exceptional workplaces through powerful collaboration with your HR team and/or business office. This session will cover 6 transformative strategies, from tech optimization and aligning goals to enhancing employee well-being and promoting an inclusive work environment. Gain practical insights on how to collaborate well with your HR team to advance your program’s goals. Led by HR expert Krystal Speed, you’ll leave with actionable tips to elevate your leadership, collaboration with HR, and the keys for building a thriving work environment.

Speakers

Krystal Speed

CEO, Your HR Strategist

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Valley Ho 1

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

1:00pm MST

Launching Your Auxiliary Programs Department through a Micro and Macro Lens

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

Valley Ho 2

This session will help new directors and other school leaders that looking to launch and formalize their Auxiliary Programs Department by discussing some items you can complete within the first three years. If you’re new to the position or see opportunity for growth, this session will help you set out a three-year plan to expand and partner with the various stakeholders in the school community. We’ll discuss 30,000 foot view items such as organizational structure, project management, and strategically aligning your department within the school. We’ll also discuss granular items such as communications, program offerings, and individual responsibilities within your department.

Speakers

Joe Ali

Head of Auxiliary, Carrollwood Day School

Head of Aux at Carrollwood Day School in Tampa, Florida.Former Director of Aux at University School of Milwaukee.Former French Teacher, Student Activities Coordinator and World Language Dept Chair at Calvert School in Baltimore, MDExperience with: Aftercare, Enrichments, Summer, School... Read More →

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Valley Ho 2

Breakout Session, Business Offering

1:00pm MST

Portfolio Approach to Program Design

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

SoHo 1

In an ideal school, the Auxiliary Program Department is built as a portfolio of programs/services that help reach defined strategic priorities. In this session, explore how to develop your school’s optimal auxiliary portfolio. First, we’ll review the different categories of Auxiliary Programs and expected financial rates of returns (ROIs). Then we’ll explore how Auxiliary Departments can be umbrellas for a number of strategic initiatives that build toward ultimate goals. Join us to learn how to assess/build your own unique portfolio of programs! All auxiliary programs are not created equal, but with intentional design, implementation, and budgeting, you can maximize the return on your portfolio investment.

Speakers

Karen McCann McClelland

Senior Advisor, SPARC

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
SoHo 1

Breakout Session, Program Design

1:00pm MST

Top Ten Tricks and Tips for Boarding School Auxiliary Directors

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

Tropicana

Not your typical after-school programming session--because we don't have those programs in the boarding school world! Step into the wonderful world of boarding schools with a can't-miss session of the Top Ten Tricks and Tips for Boarding School Auxiliary Directors. Join veteran Auxiliary Directors Ryan and Dan as they share a crash course in all things boarding school life - residential and partner programming, maximizing non-tuition revenue opportunities during the school year while still maintaining your non-profit status (hello, rentals!), communication across departments, navigating the "this is my house" conversation with year-round faculty, valuing the whole community and their impact on your department, and much more. Don't live on campus but still want and need to stay relevant and present in the community? We've got you.

Speakers

Christie Rawlings

Director of Admission & Residential Life, Hotchkiss Summer Portals

Dan O'Neil

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Episcopal High School

Ryan Williams

Director of Auxiliary Programs, The Lawrenceville School

Ryan Williams has over 15 years of experience in auxiliary and summer programs. As Director of Auxiliary Programs at The Lawrenceville School, Ryan oversees summer programs, facility rentals, select student services, the Lawrenceville School Golf and Tennis Club, the School’s revenue-generating... Read More →

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Tropicana

Breakout Session, Business Offering

1:00pm MST

Want more inquiries? Here's the Blueprint for Using Inbound Marketing at Your School

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

SoHo 2

Discover how inbound marketing can revolutionize your program's outreach efforts. This comprehensive session will provide a detailed framework for attracting prospective families by creating valuable content and personalized experiences. Learn key strategies, including website optimization, SEO techniques, and effective content creation to drive organic traffic and engagement. This session will also cover practical steps for implementing a drip email marketing system to nurture leads and improve conversion rates. Engage in interactive activities to identify your most valuable personas and brainstorm targeted keywords. Understand the importance of measuring ROI through tools like Google Analytics and the use of UTM codes. By the end of the session, you will be equipped with actionable insights and tools to enhance your school's marketing efforts, ensuring a sustainable and effective inbound marketing strategy. Join Brendan to transform your approach to school marketing with proven inbound techniques.

Speakers

Brendan Schneider

Founder and CEO, SchneiderB Media Inc.

Tuesday October 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
SoHo 2

Breakout Session, Marketing and Communication

2:15pm MST

Auxiliary DEI Audit

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST

Valley Ho 2

Like many independent schools, Harvard-Westlake has undertaken a number of significant policy evaluations around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. While those projects reviewed almost all aspects of school operations, Harvard-Westlake Summer was not explicitly included. To ensure that the summer operation conformed with the schoolwide DEIB vision, Harvard-Westlake Summer performed its own DEI audit. This session will begin by exploring the relationship between the DEIB goals for the auxiliary program and those of the rest of the school. The specific goals of the Harvard-Westlake Summer DEI audit, the process undertaken to complete the audit, and the results obtained will be shared. While the framework was specifically designed for a summer program, the session will explore how the framework could be applied to other auxiliary operations. Participants will leave with concrete steps that can be used to evaluate the DEIB goals of their own auxiliary programs.

Speakers

Jim Patterson

Director of the Kutler Center and Summer Programs, Harvard-Westlake School

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Valley Ho 2

Breakout Session, Program Design

2:15pm MST

Handling Difficult Conversations with Staff and Stakeholders

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST

Valley Ho 1

What do you do when an instructor falls asleep behind a piano during a camp? What if you need to remove a camper for the rest of the week due to disruptive behavior? In this session, we will look at and discuss situations that can arise with staff members or families and different ways to handle them.

Speakers

Jason Shuster

Director of Summer Camps, University School of Nashville

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Valley Ho 1

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

2:15pm MST

New (Again) Director

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST

Tropicana

It can be hard to be the new kid at school, even when you’re the director! Join this panel of veteran directors that have recently taken a leap and made a big career switch. When moving to new states, new schools, and new positions, there are many things to consider. This session offers a candid discussion of the why, the positives and the challenges of being the new kids in school (again!)

Speakers

Joe Ali

Head of Auxiliary, Carrollwood Day School

Whitney Ennis

Director of Summer Programs, The Potomac School

Cindy McArthur

Director of Auxiliary Operations, Greensboro Day School

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Tropicana

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

2:15pm MST

Run Your Auxiliary Programs Like a Business

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST

SoHo 1

Yes, I used the word Business! Most of us working at Independent Schools as Auxiliary Directors/Summer Directors have several strategic priorities. Two of the most prominent objectives are usually (1) generating non-tuition revenue that contributes to the school’s operating budget while supporting its mission and (2) providing high-quality programs, services, and offerings to our students and families. Balancing these objectives can be challenging. To complicate matters, we’re running businesses inside of organizations that don’t often think of themselves as a business. We operate with shared spaces, limited resources, and often with some resistance from our school community. Infusing Auxiliary/Summer programs into the school creates challenges, and cultural, operational, and programmatic stressors will add to those challenges as auxiliary programs grow. In this session, we will discuss running your Auxiliary Programs like any successful business to maximize your goals and objectives while influencing change and adding value to the school community.

Speakers

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
SoHo 1

Breakout Session, Business Offering

2:15pm MST

Starting Potential and Reigniting Creativity (a.k.a. SPARC) in After School Programs!

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST

SoHo 2

Have you been up all night with After School ideas POPPIN' in your head? Whether you are looking to begin an After School or you're a veteran looking for new ideas, we've got you! When you POP into our session, you will see potential all 'round and reignite your passion and creativity for your After School Programs and how to carry these POPPIN' ideas into your summer camp!
#StartingPotentialAndReignitingCreativity (a.k.a. SPARC)

Speakers

Katie McLean

Associate Coordinator of Auxiliary Programs, St. Mark's School (Southborough, MA)

Barbara Campbell

Director of After School and Enrichment, Meadowbrook School of Weston

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
SoHo 2

Breakout Session, Program Design

3:45pm MST

Organizing and Analyzing Your Auxiliary Data with Spreadsheets: A Case Study

Tuesday October 8, 2024 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST

Valley Ho 1

Excel and Google Sheets are powerful tools that you can use to help you make decisions, plan for daily logistics and organize your data for a more streamlined communication and effective partnership with the business office, admissions department, and other stakeholders in your school. Using a case study format, this session will provide examples, templates, helpful formulas, and formatting tools to organize all of your auxiliary program data!

Please bring your computer as this will be an interactive session working with Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. Although not required, having any financial records available may be useful for reference while we work through the session. You will not be asked to share your financials with anyone during the session.

Speakers

Marcie Glad

Spreadsheet Consultant, Help My Spreadsheets

Hi! I'm Marcie!I'd love to hear from you about:GardeningHouseplantsFolding fitted sheetsAnd, of course, SPREADSHEETS!

Joe Ali

Head of Auxiliary, Carrollwood Day School

Tuesday October 8, 2024 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Valley Ho 1

Breakout Session, Business Offering

8:45am MST

CANCELLED: Earning Trust: How to Respond When Your Programs are Under Fire

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST

Tropicana

In this session, we will study an actual case of an extended day program that came under scrutiny for failures in supervision and overall program quality. Learn how the program responded through a comprehensive review identifying appropriate responses to restore trust.

Speakers

Jeff Malloy

Interim Director of Upper School/Director of Operations, Oak Hall School

Jeff Malloy brings over 39 years of summer camp experience to Oak Hall–as a camper, leader-trainee, counselor and director. Mr. Malloy had previously served as Oak Hall School’s Athletic Director for 23 years.

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST
Tropicana

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

8:45am MST

Innovative Academic Learning through Summer Programs

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST

Valley Ho 2

Interested in developing auxiliary academic opportunities that prioritize student needs, energize teachers, and cultivate invested partnerships with families? Over the past few years, The Academy at Parish Episcopal School has employed a multifaceted approach to develop unique academic programs for students spanning PreK - 12th grade. This approach combines quantitative and qualitative data analysis through close collaboration with families, teachers, and administration to tailor offerings that meet the specific needs of our community and align with our school's mission and classroom learning objectives. These strategic partnerships have resulted in a diverse range of academic programs designed to foster engagement, encouraging repeat participation year after year. Such strategic development has even been integrated into classroom learning with our executive function curriculum. Let us share the lessons learned from this ongoing process and help you find your own inspiration for creating innovative ways of responding to the needs of your entire school community.

Speakers

Ann Morgan

Director of The Academy, Parish Episcopal School

Erika Hardy

Parish Lab Learning Specialist, Parish Episcopal School

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST
Valley Ho 2

Breakout Session, Program Design

8:45am MST

Managing Organizational Change: Navigating Transformation for Success

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST

Valley Ho 1

In today's dynamic auxiliary landscape, adaptability is key to thriving. Organizational change is not just inevitable but essential for growth and sustainability. This presentation explores the strategies and principles behind effective change management. From understanding the need for change to implementing strategies that foster employee buy-in and organizational resilience, we delve into the intricacies of navigating transformational journeys. Join us as we uncover the tools and techniques necessary to lead your auxiliary portfolio through change with confidence and achieve lasting success in an ever-evolving world.

Speakers

Mike Evans

Managing Director of Strategic Programs & Auxiliary Services, St. John's Preparatory School (Danvers, MA)

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST
Valley Ho 1

Breakout Session, Business Offering

8:45am MST

Trailblazing with the SPARC Compass: Stories of Success & Innovation

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST

SoHo 2

Still trying to answer the “What does your department do all year?” question? Feeling buried in tasks, but not sure how to advocate for yourself or your team? Or maybe you’re one of the adventurous explorers who has already started forging your own SPARC Compass path, but you’re curious to hear how others are using this tool for managing logistics, projects, and more. We will begin with a panel of Compass users from departments and programs of various sizes who will share their custom tweaks, strategies, innovations, and poignant moments of success after one year of Compass implementation. From there, you’ll have the opportunity to join a working group to further develop your own Compass tool. Participants will leave with an updated model of their own Compass and a network of other users to further collaborate with during monthly SPARC Waypoint sessions.

Participants should bring a laptop and a copy of their Compass (if available). Previous use of the SPARC Compass is not required for this workshop!

Speakers

Caitlin Hampton

Director of Community Engagement and Alumni Connections, Pine Crest School

Maggie Magner

Director of Summer & Auxiliary Programs, The Fenn School

Morgan Smith

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Saint Edward's School

Kristi Jacobi

Associate Director of Auxiliary Programs, St. Mark's School

Educator. Camp Aficionado. Seeker of Joy. Lover of all things Logistical.20+ years of experience in the summer camp/out-of-school time/enrichment/non-profit world. I find my flow doing whatever I can to support other people having their best experience - from concept to clean-up... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST
SoHo 2

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

8:45am MST

Unlocking Intelligence: Streamlining Your Program with AI

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST

SoHo 1

Join us as we explore innovative approaches to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operations, programming, and your daily workflow. This session offers practical insights into integrating AI tools to streamline administrative tasks, keep things running smoothly, and save you time—all without needing to code or wrestle with robots. No sci-fi fantasies here; just real, actionable insights to make your program a little smarter, a lot more efficient, and heaps more fun for everyone. Join us to find out how you can intelligently use AI today.

Speakers

Jonathan Schmid

Chief Innovation Officer, Meadowbrook School of Weston

Wednesday October 9, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am MST
SoHo 1

Breakout Session, Business Offering

10:15am MST

Early Childhood under Auxiliary Programs

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST

Valley Ho 2

Discover the ways to incorporate your school's early childhood program under auxiliary programs. Learn ways to increase your revenue in summer camps, help work with your school's admission team, and maximize your rosters.

Speakers

Lindsay Quinn

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Roland Park Country School

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST
Valley Ho 2

Breakout Session, Program Design

10:15am MST

Increase your FTE: The Role of Strategic Hiring in Auxiliary Programs

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST

SoHo 1

This session dives into the reciprocal relationship in strategic hiring practices between auxiliary programs and divisions. Through a case study from Oregon Episcopal School, we'll explore the benefits of year-round or full-time academic year staff members in enhancing student and family during out-of-school time. Attendees will walk away with an example executive summary to share with the admin team.

Speakers

Chelsea Lamb

Director of After School and Extension Programs, Oregon Episcopal School

Chelsea has been committed to serving families and children for 17 years in auxiliary programs. For the past nine years at Oregon Episcopal School in Portland, OR, Chelsea has been instrumental in increasing FTE, benefits, professional development, and staff resources for her auxiliary... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST
SoHo 1

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

10:15am MST

The First 60 Minutes of Staff Training

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST

Tropicana

Establishing the optimal staff culture may be the best asset to any auxiliary program. Don’t waste a minute forming your team and setting the tone. As a leader, you are the best role model for others to imitate. Your first impression counts. Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo! We will process how to build and deliver successful staff training through play and discussions. Learn the crucial importance of your first impression and why the first 60 minutes could make a significant difference throughout the entire summer! We will discuss strategies, activities, and educational sessions you can use to launch a meaningful and impactful learning experience for your summer teams.

Speakers

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST
Tropicana

Breakout Session, Leadership and Staffing

10:15am MST

Unlocking Creativity: Dive into Dynamic After School Adventures!

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST

Valley Ho 1

Welcome to an immersive workshop where we transform after-school programs into vibrant hubs of hands-on exploration and learning! Join us as we delve into the art of fostering dynamic learning experiences during extension programs, whether after-school programming or summer camp. Get ready to infuse your sessions with creativity, engagement, and interactive activities that spark curiosity and inspire discovery! In this workshop, you'll learn: innovative strategies to make after-school programs come alive with hands-on learning; techniques for fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in a fun and interactive environment; and how to hire for an engaging, supportive, hands-on after-school program instructor. You’ll leave with ten easy and inexpensive one–hour projects to enhance your after-school programs and keep participants eager to come back for more! You'll also and learn how to find, evaluate, and create step-by-step instructions for future projects. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, dive into creativity, and transform your after-school programs into unforgettable adventures of learning and fun!

Speakers

Laura Kelly

CEO & Founder, Dean Adventure Camps

The Handwork Studio is a nationally recognized organization that centers on handwork education.We empower children, families, and communities through experiential learning. We encourage children to develop pride during their creative journey by being kind to themselves and others... Read More →

Eva Kammerer

Assistant Director of Extension Programs, St. Margaret's Episcopal School

Greetings, fellow after-school adventurers!I'm Eva—pronounced Ava—and I’m thrilled to meet you all at SPARC soon! I’ve had the pleasure of working at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in sunny San Juan Capistrano, CA, since 2007, wearing quite a few hats along the way. From... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST
Valley Ho 1

Breakout Session, Program Design

10:15am MST

When the Unthinkable Happens…

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST

SoHo 2

Have you experienced a tragedy at your camp? How do you navigate and support your camp when the unthinkable happens? We prepare and train never to be in a position where we could lose one of our campers to an accident; but the truth is, it can happen at any time. In this session, we will review two case studies and a tragic story from my own camp. A great review of lessons learned, camp liability, and insurance coverage.
*Trigger warning*

Speakers

Cindi Gonsalves

Director of Summer Programs, The Harker School

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:15am - 11:15am MST
SoHo 2

Breakout Session, Business Offering