SPARKS Across America
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When it comes to science test scores among American students, the national averages are not looking too good. Trends show that science test scores are falling across the U.S., particularly among students in urban public schools. Fortunately, cultural institutions like Zoo Atlanta can and are making a difference, especially to a child’s most powerful educational advocate – the parent.
The SPARKS (Supporting Parents in Advocacy, Reform and Knowledge in Science) program maximizes the natural capabilities of informal learning centers like zoos to engage parents directly in their children’s science learning. Developed by the Wildlife Conservation Society’s (WCS) Bronx Zoo, SPARKS endows parents with teaching methods that supplement science learning at home and promote stronger educational advocacy in the community.
The success of SPARKS recently led the Institute of Museum and Library Services to award WCS with a grant to expand the program to zoos throughout the U.S. Zoo Atlanta is one of 28 institutions participating in SPARKS Across America, which allows the Zoo and peers across the nation to offer neutral, trusted environments where parents can learn how to get involved in their children’s science education.
Programs like SPARKS Across America are critical to nurturing a generation of 21st-century Americans enriched by science education.
- Please read our SPARKS Information Packet (PDF) for more information
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SPARKS Science Fair is Saturday 9/19/2009 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Base Camp Discovery in KIDZone. Come out for animal encounters, fun games and activities that empower parents to enrich their children’s lives with science. The Fair is FREE for Zoo Members and children under 3; FREE with general admission.
