SPARC is a dynamic and energetic community. Stay informed about all that is going on in the auxiliary world: see profiles of auxiliary leaders, take deep dives into notable programs, and explore important themes.
After conversations with school leaders at the NAIS National Conference and the NBOA Annual Meeting, one theme stood out: auxiliary is no longer an afterthought, it’s becoming a strategic priority. Continue Reading
Effective auxiliary leadership is a crucial part of independent school's impact, branding, and long-term financial stability, and hiring the right person to head your school's auxiliary department is more important than ever. Read how the pros at SPARC find the best candidates for the job. Continue Reading
Independent schools can no longer afford to treat afterschool programs, both care and enrichment, as peripheral to the academic day. Afterschool is not an add-on; it is a core extension of the student experience. Read on to learn how to create a more intentional, mission-aligned afterschool program. Continue Reading
As we enter a new year, many of us are trading resolutions for a thoughtfully-chosen Word--or phrase--of the Year. SPARC Senior Advisor Karen McCann McClelland shares her choice for 2026 and encourages us to consider how a word or phrase can keep us focused on what matters most. Continue Reading
As summer and auxiliary programs become increasingly vital contributors to non-tuition revenue, the efficient management of data grows even more necessary. Read how the SPARC Dashboard--the powerful new tool we've created in partnership with Apte--can help you more strategically run your programs. Continue Reading
2025 saw a year of growth for the SPARC community, with more partnerships, webinars, roundtables, conference presentations, collaborations, and member value than ever before. Here's a roundup of our major successes--with more planned for 2026! Continue Reading
Successful marketing strategy requires creativity, experimentation, and refining what works. In a recent webinar, SPARC members shared the innovative and data-driven methods they used to up their marketing game in 2025. Continue Reading
On October 7 at this year’s SPARC National Conference, Executive Director Nat Saltonstall presented the Excellence in Auxiliary Award to auxiliary leaders from Episcopal High School and Open Window School. Continue Reading
With more neurodivergent kids joining summer camps, auxiliary leaders are facing challenges meeting their needs and managing family expectations. Here are a few ways to strategize and adapt so every student has a chance to experience "the best summer ever." Continue Reading
Regional workshops for auxiliary professionals offer inclusive, affordable, in-person networking and professional development. Jim Patterson of Harvard-Westlake School explains why regional connections remain vital to the support and success of auxiliary work. Continue Reading
At SPARC's recent 10th Anniversary National Conference, Brodrick Clarke's keynote inspired attendees with his call for renewal and connection to the deeper purpose of auxiliary work: the lifelong impact we can have on the students we serve. Continue Reading
At next week's 10th Anniversary National Conference, join fellow conference attendees for cozy evening Campfires--a new way to come together, reflect on our careers, and enjoy the warmth and camaraderie of the SPARC community. Continue Reading
