We extend our deepest appreciation to the SPARC Boosters and Community Partners for their unwavering support of Northeast High School's students and educators.
Thanks to your generosity, our students have access to cutting-edge technology, including two Bambu Labs 3-D printers, enabling them to learn CAD, micrometer measuring, and material experimentation, fostering creativity and innovation.
Our Robotics team showcased their prowess at the Sea Glide underwater robot competition, clinching 1st place for Presentation and 2nd place in the White Paper category, impressing judges with their commercial and comprehensive portfolio. Their projects are linked below. They also utilized the new 3-d printers in their design.
Engaging in engineering projects along Pennypack Creek, our students removed invasive species, conducted riparian studies using Booster supplied drones, and mastered Leni-Lenape Native American techniques to weave bird blankets from straw. We are grateful for our partnership with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation and the staff at Pennypack Environmental Center. We have many future projects lined up for the 24-25 academic year.
Exploring agriculture, students hydroponically raised and sold herbs and lettuces, supplying fresh groceries to those in food deserts, and raising $500 for future operations. Boosters were responsible for our grow lights and supplies.
Partnering with Glen Foerd, Temple University's College of Engineering and Riverfront North, students engineered and installed 21 Kent Style Bat Boxes, utilizing bioinformatics and MICROBIT sensors to ensure proper habitats for native bat species. We thank the boosters for our Glowforge machine that effortlessly allowed us to cut and take our designs of our wood products to the next level. Look for more innovations regarding the Glowforge machine and MICROBIT sensors for the 24-25 school year.
Thanks to Glen Foerd's Waterborne Program, SPARC students built an additional two 13' Schuylkill Skiff row boats to connect community members with nature. Six of our boats from pervious years are currently housed at Glen Foerd on the Delaware, with plans to donate them to FDR park and other sites across the city so residents can experience the joys of self powered boating.
Additionally, SPARC Students embarked on 15 days and 14 Nights of wilderness studies, camping and canoeing down the Delaware River, honing skills learned at the Verree House in Pennypack park and inspiring future careers in environmental engineering. We wish to thank the William Penn Foundation, the Pocono Environmental Education Center and Outward Bound for the opportunity of authentic experiential education.
Thanks to the Boosters' generosity, students attended a 5-day trip to Hurricane Island, Maine, conducting authentic science and leadership activities. Pictures are in the carousel below.
Our Science Olympiad team has placed higher than it ever has in a SE PA Regional competition. Our team is growing in scholarship and leadership thanks to access to emerging technologies provided by the SPARC Boosters and our partnership with University of Pennsylvania.
In March- Dr. Parker, Mr. Scanlan and Mr. Adams presented at the School District of Philadelphia's Summit for Sustainable Schools Conference. Their presentation is linked below and is a testament to our SPARC Booster and Community Partnerships.
The SPARC Boosters and our Community Partners- Glen Foerd, Riverfront North, Temple University, University of Pennsylvania and the Naval Surface Warfare Center- Philadelphia Division exemplify community engagement and student empowerment, contributing to Northeast High School shining brighter than ever before.
Your efforts have given graduating seniors goals and a path to attending prestigious schools with majors in Environmental Engineering, Aviation Flight Technology, GIS, and Computer Science.
We thank you for your support and invite you to take some time exploring the video and images on this webpage to see how much impact your generosity has had on our community.
As we celebrate the past 5 years of growth, transformation, and infinite possibilities, we invite you to join us in forging a brighter future for our students.
Your continued support and funding are vital, as they allow Project SPARC to flourish and provide life-changing experiences for our students. We also encourage organizations and individuals to consider offering internships and externships, providing our students with valuable real-world experiences and mentorship.
Together, we can empower the next generation of scientists, engineers, and leaders. Let us build a world where all students have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, boosters, for being the driving force behind Project SPARC's incredible period of growth and transformation.
Images and stories of our students' achievements and impact will be shared in the carousel above.
I invite you to engage with us and be a part of this experiential learning community.
Thank you for your time
Andrew Adams
Director Project SPARC
With your support, we have been able to witness countless transformative experiences that have forever changed the lives of our participants.
The FAA 107 Exam
With the boosters' financial assistance, we have been able to provide the necessary resources for our students to succeed in earning their drone pilots license. We are proud to share that a 7 students have earned their FAA Part 107 paid for by scholarships provided by boosters.
Operating sophisticated drones to enhance piloting skills and marketability
Thanks to your generous donations, we have been able to acquire sophisticated drones that have not only enhanced our students' piloting skills but also increased their marketability in the industry. With hands-on experience and the ability to navigate these cutting-edge technologies, our students are setting themselves apart from their peers, reading themselves for careers in GIS , surveying, search and rescue etc.
Utilizing flight simulators with realistic controls funded by boosters
Through your support, we have been able to provide our students with access to flight simulators equipped with realistic controls. This invaluable experience has allowed them to hone their skills and prepare for real-world challenges in aviation.
Solving food desert crisis through hydroponics and coding contests
One of the ongoing challenges in our community has been the issue of food deserts. With the help of boosters, we have been able to tackle this problem head-on by engaging our students in hydroponics and coding contests. Our innovative solutions have garnered recognition on a national level through participation in the prestigious MESA contest.
Competing in first tech robotics competitions against city and state schools
Project SPARC has fostered a competitive spirit among our students, driving them to excel in first tech robotics competitions against schools across our city and state. With your support, our students have developed essential STEM skills and learned the value of teamwork and perseverance.
Learning CAD and 3D printing software to support engineering pursuits
Through boosters' generous contributions, our students have gained access to cutting-edge CAD and 3D printing software. This invaluable opportunity has allowed them to bring their engineering ideas to life, opening doors to exciting possibilities and future careers.
Engaging in Outward Bound Leadership programming
Project SPARC not only focuses on academic pursuits but also nurtures the personal growth of our students through Outward Bound Leadership programs. From canoeing through serene waters to back country hiking through breathtaking landscapes, our students have developed resilience, teamwork, and a profound connection with nature. I consider this a nod to the days of SPARC astronaut training.
Competing in Science Olympiad against high schools statewide
Our students have relished the chance to showcase their scientific prowess in the esteemed Science Olympiad. The boosters' support has allowed us to compete against high schools statewide, and the determination and knowledge our students have displayed are truly awe-inspiring.
Hosting Major General David Miller and impressing with diverse programming
It was an absolute honor to host Major General David Miller, a true advocate for youth empowerment. Through his visit, our students were able to showcase their diverse programming such as hydroponics, aviation, and robotics and demonstrate their commitment to personal growth and excellence. Without the support of our boosters, this opportunity would not have been possible.
Scholarship to Hurricane Island for Science Leadership Development
Through your generosity, we were able to provide a scholarship to the Hurricane Island Science Leadership Academy. This life-changing experience broadened our students' horizons, fostering a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of nature and inspiring them to become responsible stewards of the environment.
Conducting fieldwork and ecological programs at Pennypack Park
Boosters have played a vital role in funding our fieldwork and ecological programs at Pennypack Park. These immersive experiences have allowed our students to engage with the natural world, deepening their understanding of environmental issues and cultivating a passion for conservation. To date students have released over 200 trout and built 21 bat boxes to support our conservation efforts.
Building rowboats for community watershed access
One of Project SPARC's proudest moments was the collaborative effort of our students to build rowboats for community watershed access. This project not only empowered our students with practical skills but also fostered a deeper sense of connection and responsibility towards their community.
Providing CPR and first aid training to hundreds of students
Thanks to your support, we have been able to provide invaluable CPR and first aid training to hundreds of students. In a society where emergencies can occur at any moment, these life-saving skills ensure our students are equipped to make a difference in the lives of others.
Participating in community events like fall fests and sheep shearing days
Our engagement with the community has been a cornerstone of Project SPARC's journey. We have taken part in vibrant community events, such as fall festivals and sheep shearing days, where our students have had the opportunity to share their knowledge on environmental science and inspire others to get involved in stewardship.
Exhibiting at the Philadelphia Flower Show with miniature creations
Lastly, thanks to your unwavering support, our students' creativity and innovation have been showcased at the prestigious Philadelphia Flower Show. Their miniature creations captivated audiences and served as a testament to the transformative power of nature and the human spirit.
While Project SPARC has achieved remarkable milestones, we recognize that our journey is far from over. To continue empowering our students and providing them with the best opportunities, we still have several ongoing needs:
Hardware and Facilities updates
To keep up with the demands of ever-evolving software, we require hardware updates such as 3D printers, faster computers, and improved graphic cards. Your continued support in this area is instrumental in ensuring our students have access to the cutting-edge tools they need to thrive. We currently have a make shift woodshop with no dedicated ventilation, an outdated computer lab, and a water lab that is in dire need of repairs.
Experts in the field
To broaden our students' horizons and expose them to real-world expertise, we need external experts in the fields of coding, aviation, engineering, and carpentry. Industry professionals who can share their knowledge and provide guidance will undoubtedly inspire our students to reach even greater heights.
Materials and supplies
To enable hands-on learning experiences, we continuously need a variety of materials and supplies. These include filament for 3D printing, drone batteries, FAA airmen books, hydroponic supplies, Arduino boards, and wood. Your contribution in this area will directly impact the quality of our programs and the opportunities we can offer our students.
Affordability of pursuing a PPL
One of our ongoing challenges is the cost-prohibitive nature of pursuing a Private Pilot License (PPL) for underserved youth. We firmly believe in opening doors for all our students, regardless of their financial circumstances. Your support can help us provide scholarships and financial assistance for those passionate about aviation but unable to bear the financial burden.