SPARC National Conference 2024

Pre-Conference Workshops require advance registration and additional payment. To register, go here.

With limited time—and often limited personnel and resources—maximizing efficiency and effectiveness is a challenge faced by both veterans and newcomers to the Auxiliary Programs field. Framed by the scope of a yearlong auxiliary cycle, this working session will explore the tasks and responsibilities associated with an auxiliary programs workload, including: financial management, marketing, human resources, program planning and implementation, enrollment and registration management, risk management, and how to manage the “everything else” that often comes our way. Participants will be introduced to the concept behind the SPARC Compass and will be supported through the creation (or evolution for existing users) of a bespoke Compass for their specific role and responsibilities. Lean into the “bigger picture” of an annual Auxiliary cycle in order to identify techniques and strategies for better managing projects, workloads, and new initiatives on a day-to-day basis. Working with mentors and your auxiliary colleagues, you will build and organize your Compass, share ideas on projects, compare season cycles, identify opportunities for delegation or collaboration, and explore the potential of longitudinal work cycle data. You’ll leave with a working tool and a cohort of colleagues that will help us all find the way.

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.

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!

Join an informal conversation with Michael Brandwein to dig deeper into an of the topics that he shared throughout his sessions earlier in the day.

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.

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.

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!)

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.

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.