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Embark on your AI journey with our introductory course. Dive into the basics of Artificial Intelligence, defining key terms like AI, neural network, big data, algorithm, and machine learning through engaging analogies, interactive games, and activities. Equip yourself with tools to introduce AI concepts to your students, and gain insights from an IBM expert on the significance of play in education. Start your exploration of AI fundamentals today. Creating a Spark for AI Register Here Dive into this introductory course and get familiar with the basics of AI. Learn and define five key terms (AI, neural network, big data, algorithm and machine learning) through analogy, interactive games and activities. Build tools to use with your own students to expose them to AI concepts, and hear from an IBM expert about the importance of play in education. What previous attendees have said about this webinar: “This course opened my mind to the need to incorporate AI into our classrooms as it becomes more prevalent in our daily lives.” “I appreciate the curriculum resources. I am looking forward to hosting a discussion in my classroom soon about student data and whether or not they think it is alright for their data to be bought and sold.” By the end of the online webinar, you will have: A working definition for AI & other terms Activities & resources to implement immediately to introduce AI to your students An extensive toolkit of resources A graphic organizer to capture your thoughts and learnings Topic: An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Format: On-Demand Additional Resources: Submitted by Melissa DeMull Designed for Grades 5-12 Lesson Plan: AI and Technology Vocabulary Lesson Plan: What are Neural Networks Video: Creating a Spark What to Expect in Your First Lesson

Embark on a transformative journey into the world of AI careers with our IBM AI Course. Uncover the limitless possibilities that Artificial Intelligence offers for aspiring professionals. Gain invaluable insights, hands-on experiences, and expert guidance, empowering you to navigate the exciting landscape of AI-driven careers. AI and Your Curriculum - The Perfect Marriage Register Here How can we prepare students for a future we can’t see, when our world is being constantly changed by the advancement of technology? In this course you will understand the effect AI is having on the future of work, and how the skills needed to be successful in the future have changed. Practice and identify these skills with a Scratch project via IBM’s “Machine Learning for Kids” and collaborate using pair programming. Build these employability skills in students to prepare them for anything. What previous attendees have said about this webinar: “I learned how AI plays an integral role in employability for future work. As educators it is important that we teach the future employees and leaders of tomorrow about the evolving world that we live in. With the major role of AI in the development and advancement of the world, teaching students the way we were taught is not going to produce 21st-century individuals. As educators we must teach for the future and the future is AI!” “This course gave me great ideas about infusing AI into my curriculum.” By the end of the online webinar, you will have: An understanding of how the workforce is changing, and the skills students need to be successful in the future Started a machine learning project that you could use in your classroom An extensive toolkit of resources A graphic organizer to capture your thoughts and learning Topic: AI Implementation in the Classroom Format: On-Demand

MindSpark Education Accelerators are immersive learning experiences that equip educators with the skills and mindsets to innovate in their classrooms, schools, and districts. Learn from experts, collaborate with peers, and apply your learning to real-world challenges. Join an upcoming cohort and spark your education transformation. EDUCATION ACCELERATOR - Introducing - Higher Education Accelerator Learn More What Goes On at a MindSpark Learning Education Accelerator? Answering that question can be likened to explaining what happens at the orchestra. We can highlight the program pamphlet, but no description will ever compare to experiencing the music firsthand. However, we understand the importance of providing you with a glimpse of what an Education Accelerator (EA) can achieve - whether you are an industry leader hoping to sponsor an impactful education initiative or an education leader ready for transformation change. Velocity as a Means to Transformation Our EA is a leadership program dedicated to fostering organizational ingenuity within education systems. Organizations join MindSpark’s coveted accelerator at varying stages of development. Some may be in the early planning phases, while others have been implementing their approaches for years. Regardless of their starting point, our aim is to guide participants towards a markedly improved state within just six to nine months. Our unwavering commitment is to see cohort organizations emerge as shining examples of streamlined processes, vibrant cultures, and innovative educational paradigms. As for our industry partners, by investing in an EA, you'll play a pivotal role in building capacity and uplifting education systems. Once an accelerator has been funded by an industry or community partners, schools and organizations can apply. Together, we will reshape education—fostering passionate educators and engaged students. “When I started this journey 18 months ago, I didn’t realize how much we needed the spark. I was “stuck on an escalator”, silently screaming for help, not realizing we held the answers to our problems of practice all along. EA has been our spark, our catalyst, our ‘small fiery particle thrown off of a fire’ where the fire is produced when education meets industry and radical self-inquiry begins.” - District Administrator for Eaton School District 10 U.S. states served 22 Unique cohorts hosted 768 Participants activated 5,738 Partnerships forged 175,561 Students impacted EA QUICK FACTS: Sponsor an EA Apply for a Future EA A Launchpad to Bespoke Solutions EA is a launchpad that gives education leaders full autonomy over the trajectory of their organization’s future. Rooted in MindSpark’s trademarked disruption cycle, the EA is built to ensure systems are more intelligent, agile, and adaptive. EA’s strengthen education systems by strategically bridging community, industry, and education. Discover Begin by looking at your goals and work to develop a focused problem of practice. This will be used to create educator capability appraisals and determine baselines that will guide your journey and your action plan as you connect the threads between education, industry, and community. Design Work with industry experts, receive marketing support, and develop sustainable partnerships that will evolve alongside you in this developmental stage. Additionally, investigate the elements connected to the success of your teaching imperatives and strategic intersections. Do Time for action—work within your teams and partnerships to ensure your problem of practice finds resolution. You will be challenged to experiment and iterate upon your designs while receiving expert guidance from our team. Dynamize Prepare for the unknown by implementing blueprints for measuring and sustaining key performance indicators. Our team will continue to assist via team check-ins, individual coaching, and further professional development opportunities to ensure you are supported long after the closing ceremony. Collaborating for Change: Education Accelerators Driving Progress Equitable Career Pathways AI Education for the Future Opportunity for Every Learner As some states, like Kentucky, start to feel the pressures of workforce development challenges, MindSpark has helped to make their faculty and students workforce ready for industry standards. KPMG Kentucky Workforce EA Read how we changed the competitive landscape in Kentucky by introducing workforce, career pathways in school. Case Study “We have really worked (after the EA) to give our students an opportunity to find what is the best fit for them in their careers.” - KY EA collaborator AI is revolutionizing career pathways everywhere. In fact, AI jobs are forecast to increase in demand by 71% by 2025. MindSpark has been working with school districts to equip educators for the change. IBM Artificial Intelligence EA Read how our work with the York Region District School Board formed pathways for educators to teach AI responsibly. Case Study “The epiphany that AI connects to everything and that we must bring all to the table to create unbiased, ethical learning about it.” - IBM AI collaborator Fostering a collaborative community of innovative entrepreneurs starts with the educator. MindSpark assisted with our consistent and responsive design sessions, prioritizing collective genius. VELA Microschool's EA Read how local Colorado microschools leveled up their systems by developing skills in leadership, messaging, and strategic planning. Case Study “The most valuable part was focusing on what partners need and re-returning to our foundational ‘why’.” - VELA collaborator

We have dozens of resources to share with educational professionals! Learn more here. RESOURCES Let's Connect! Stay informed and ignite your passion for education! Sign up for MindSpark's newsletter for the latest online courses, free resources, events, and more. FOLLOW US: First name* Last name* Email* State Receive information for events, grants, and other resources in your area Yes, I consent to receiving newsletters, marketing promotions, and other resources from MindSpark Learning * Submit AI TOOLS AI TOOLS AI TOOLS AI TOOLS Learn about some of our favorite (Free!) AI tools! Want to share this deck? Use this link! Free Classroom Resources For Teachers How To Kick-off The Greatest School Year Ever 5 Personalized Learning Strategies 1 2 3 4 5

Explore the transformative world of Natural Language Processing (NLP) with our educational nonprofit. Unlock the power of language understanding and processing for a brighter future. Discover cutting-edge insights, resources, and initiatives that empower students and educators alike. Join us in shaping the next generation through the art and science of NLP. Dive into a realm where language meets innovation, fostering learning that transcends boundaries. How Do Siri, Alexa and Watson Understand Me? Register Here Walk a mile in a machine’s shoes and experience the complexity of human language - and what it takes for a computer to understand us! Like art, AI imitates life - and can hold up a mirror to reveal patterns in human speech. See examples of how NLP can be used for social good - get students thinking about other applications of this powerful technology. What previous attendees have said about this webinar: “Because of this institute, I have a better understanding of what natural language processing means. I liked the specific example of using the AI to debate, and also the examples of how AI can help those with disabilities.” “One of my takeaways from this course was the instruction. Some of the digital tools used can help make my classes more interesting and engaging for students.” By the end of the online webinar, you will have: An understanding of natural language processing and its everyday applications Activities & resources to implement immediately to build student understanding of its limitations and possibilities An extensive toolkit of resources A graphic organizer to capture your thoughts and learning Topic: Natural Language Processing Format: On-Demand

Crafted by and for educators, IBM AI Education is an immersive, online professional learning suite of FREE, live and on-demand webinars taken to the next level. These webinars series guide educators through the foundational concepts of AI and K-12 classroom connections. IBM AI Education Free Webinars for K-12 Educators Prepare Your Students for Their Future Careers Artificial Intelligence (AI) is all around us, from self-driving cars, digital assistants, rideshare apps, banking apps, and so much more. Experts say AI will change 100% of jobs over the next 10 years, but there is a fear that the next generation isn’t prepared for the shift to AI. It's imperative for teachers to learn how to infuse their content and curriculum with the knowledge, skills, and values driving innovation in AI today so that their students are prepared to be successful in the modern workforce, regardless of their career paths. IBM AI Education is an online professional learning suite of FREE on-demand courses, crafted by and for educators. The nine webinars will guide educators through AI’s foundational concepts and K-12 classroom connections. Be the first to know about new AI Learning Experiences for Educators Keep Me Updated Learning Experience Overview Learn about AI’s foundational concepts and K-12 classroom connections. Gain ideas on how to incorporate AI fundamentals into your curriculum. Earn the IBM AI Education badge when you attend all nine webinars. Webinar Topics Introduction to AI Creating a Spark for Artificial Intelligence Dive into this introductory course and get familiar with the basics of AI. Learn and define five key terms (AI, neural network, big data, algorithm and machine learning) through analogy, interactive games and activities. Build tools to use with your own students to expose them to AI concepts, and hear from an IBM expert about the importance of play in education. Computational Thinking AI Here, AI There ... AI Who, What, Where? Learn how to teach your students to solve real-life problems using AI. Get access to AI teaching tools and resources, such as a sorting activity that activates prior knowledge about AI, an engaging game that teaches computational thinking, and a curated collection of videos that illustrate how AI affects future jobs, shapes social media experiences, helps keep communities safe, and more. Ethics Ethics in AI – Can You Crack the Moral Code? How do ethics come into play in AI? The moral dilemmas in AI are complex, but the issues are critical, generating material for educators across disciplines to initiate authentic and relevant discussions with their students. Hear from an IBM AI expert on the breadth and depth of this topic and walk away with resources and activities to exemplify and frame these conversations. Robotics Amplifying Potential - Beyond Programming and Coding Address a common fear: Will robots take my job? To answer this question, you will understand where human discomfort with robots comes from, examine the difference between a robot and an artificially intelligent robot, and see robots that help humankind in action. Learn how students can build their own artificially intelligent robot and how to facilitate student creativity with IBM’s TJBot. Design Thinking AI Can and Should Be Inclusive – Design Thinking Helps! Grow your understanding of AI through the lens of equity-centered design thinking, a creative problem-solving process. Familiarize yourself with IBM’s Design Thinking Field Guide activities including empathy mapping and storyboarding, and create a prompt for your students. Examine bias in AI and develop ways to mitigate these preconceived notions. Take this back to the classroom with tools to encourage students to examine and address their own biases. Diversity and Inclusion Building a Culture of Inclusivity Examine your own tech experience as you explore the roles of gender, race, and bias in technology and STEM fields. Grow your toolkit with resources for diversifying your own computer science and STEM programs so that your students can gain awareness of how AI affects them, and join the fight against algorithmic bias and injustice. Natural Language Processing How Do Siri, Alexa, and Watson Understand Me? Walk a mile in a machine’s shoes and experience the complexity of human language - and what it takes for a computer to understand us! Like art, AI imitates life - and can hold up a mirror to reveal patterns in human speech. See examples of how NLP can be used for social good - get students thinking about other applications of this powerful technology. Careers AI and Your Curriculum - The Perfect Marriage How can we prepare students for a future we can’t see, when our world is being constantly changed by the advancement of technology? In this course you will understand the effect AI is having on the future of work, and how the skills needed to be successful in the future have changed. Practice and identify these skills with a Scratch project via IBM’s “Machine Learning for Kids” and collaborate using pair programming. Build these employability skills in students to prepare them for anything. Machine Learning Machines Can Learn – But They Need Our Help! Can a piece of paper be intelligent? Answer this question as part of a larger discussion around intelligence, then play the role of a computer to understand how a machine learns. Learn more specific subsets of machine learning by comparing them to how students learn in the classroom, and take away activities to share these concepts with your students. IBM AI Foundations for Educators Badge Attendees of all nine online webinar topics (live or on-demand) will have the opportunity to take a certification quiz and earn their IBM AI Foundations for Educators Badge. This badge certifies that the recipient has become fluent and knowledgeable in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Badge recipients will have an understanding of AI applications such as machine learning and natural language processing, along with how it is used to solve problems, collect data and identify bias. They will also have become equipped to share the foundational knowledge of artificial intelligence with their colleagues and students in their classrooms. Ready to earn your badge? If you’ve completed all nine webinars, click “Access Badges” below and complete the form. We will send you information on how to access your badge quiz once the form is submitted. Access Badges +

The Kentucky Workforce EA is a seven-month program that empowers teams to address workforce gaps in their communities. Learn from MindSpark experts, collaborate with peers, and apply your learning to real-world challenges. Kentucky Workforce Education Accelerator According to the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, the state has experienced a skills gap that has limited economic growth and development. In 2020, the state had a 4.4% unemployment rate, yet many employers reported difficulty in finding qualified candidates to fill open positions. The skills gap is projected to result in a shortage of approximately 140,000 workers by 2028, which could cost the state up to $33 billion (about $100 per person in the US) in lost economic output. If nothing is done to address this challenge, the state will continue to struggle with economic growth and development. Employers will have difficulty finding qualified candidates, which could lead to businesses relocating to other states or countries. This could lead to a further decline in economic growth and an increase in unemployment rates. So, amidst Kentucky’s pressing workforce development challenges, MindSpark and the Siegel Family Foundation decided it was time to help reshape the landscape. Over the course of seven months, the Kentucky Education Accelerator (EA) brought teams together and collectively addressed workforce gaps within their communities. Each participating organization had specific goals aimed at leaving a lasting, positive impact. The program provided students with alternative career pathways and heightened awareness of emerging workforce trends, career and technical education (CTE), and vocational programs, surpassing the limitations of traditional college preparatory courses. Collaboration with Education Leaders and Industry Experts Throughout this experience, MindSpark worked with 9 teams across 8 districts and 15 schools, upskilling 50 leadership members who impact 21,595 students annually. The primary focus was to develop leadership capacity, growth mindsets, and an entrepreneurial approach, helping to ignite passions for challenging the status quo and flipping traditional scripts. The groups were activated to listen and learn from students to establish radical trust, explore how to connect industry needs to student learning, and implement authentic applications to real-world problems. MindSpark believes it is essential that every co-created experience guides participants through a process that simultaneously activates them individually, as well as the system they work within, to solve problems and drive transformative impact. Becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable is crucial for success in the education system, and activities were designed around this point to instill a new way of thinking and reacting to problems. By introducing people to a new way of looking at their system, they become comfortable pivoting in the moment, and more confident pushing boundaries for innovative change (Boston Consulting Group, 2016). Transformative Learning Through Disruption The participants had the privilege of gaining insights from esteemed institutions like the Kentucky Educational Development Corporation (KEDC). KEDC is one of the largest and oldest educational cooperatives in the Kentucky region and boasts over 50 years of service, including over 70 member districts representing 536 schools, 20,736 educators, and 343,397 students. The cooperative adds value to school districts by unifying them through support services that elicit innovation and cooperation, including leadership/professional development, adult education, grant opportunities, and much more. KEDC partnered with MindSpark to upskill educators’ in workforce development in order to close the skills gap. KEDC participated in the EA by supporting other team’s initiatives to ensure longevity and sustainability even after the EA came to a close. The goal was to empower educators with the necessary knowledge and resources to equip students for success in the future workforce, surpassing the boundaries of conventional approaches to workforce development. By challenging prevailing trends and customs, MindSpark sought to provide participants with an innovative experience that prompted significant transformation within their respective districts. This transformative approach led districts to develop comprehensive implementation plans, enabling students to explore diverse career opportunities and effectively contribute to their communities. By embracing disruption and encouraging creative thinking, participants were able to overcome persistent problems and achieve their objectives, breaking free from traditional problem-solving methods and gaining fresh perspectives when tackling challenges. MindSpark emphasizes collaboration and community engagement as key drivers of impact and transformation. Instead of relying solely on the expertise of educators and industry professionals, MindSpark urged participants to actively engage with their communities and work collaboratively to forge new solutions to the challenges of workforce development. As a testament to the efficacy of this approach, several groups forged as many as 15 new partnerships for their schools and communities. This method enabled participants to break free from the conventional tendency of depending solely on top-down solutions, and instead embrace the power of change driven by the collective efforts of the community. In the pursuit of a truly transformative learning experience, MindSpark embarked on a deliberate mission to disrupt traditional approaches and ignite a profound transformation. By encouraging participants to break free from conventional thinking and embrace uncharted territory, MindSpark created an environment conducive to the emergence of fresh solutions and the pursuit of ambitious goals. Along this journey, numerous pivotal moments and tangible outcomes stood as testaments to the tangible results yielded by MindSpark’s unconventional approach. Level Up Plans: Tailored Solutions for Local Needs One such pivotal moment was the development of Level Up plans, meticulously crafted by participants through the active involvement of diverse stakeholders in the planning process. This inclusive approach ensured that the plans were deeply rooted in local needs and aspirations, thereby increasing their likelihood of success and their potential to effect positive change within their respective communities. Student-Centered Approaches for Workforce Development The program fostered close collaboration with industry leaders such as Kentucky One Health, App Harvest, and Toyota. These esteemed organizations generously contributed their invaluable expertise, providing crucial insights into emerging workforce trends and the specific needs of local employers. This partnership proved instrumental in the creation of new pathways and pipelines for sustainable growth, benefiting not only the economy of Kentucky but also providing local students with opportunities to cultivate their talents within their own communities. Consequently, the program sparked a renewed desire among these students to remain in their community, eschewing the allure of larger surrounding cities and alternative prospects. The tangible outcome was the establishment of a thriving talent pool that helped bolster the local workforce and perpetuated self-sufficiency and resilience within the community. The transformative impact of the program manifested in concrete changes witnessed within participating districts and counties. Embracing the ethos of disruption, participants took bold strides in implementing new programs, forging new pathways for students, and cultivating innovative approaches to workforce development. The resounding success of the program reverberated through the impact survey responses, illuminating the profound and positive influence it had on the participants and the communities they served. Now more than ever before the participants see themselves as part of the change for the future and having a real impact on their community. The districts have analyzed and synthesized what they have been doing, to what they could do, and each of them have plans for their future to become more relevant in the changing economic landscape in Kentucky. From the ways that student voice is incorporated, to how they are exposed to new careers, students now have more resources and tools to make better and smarter decisions about their future. This EA has helped schools become more innovative by incorporating student voice into the decision-making process. By providing students with a platform to share their perspectives and ideas, districts have been able to develop more student-centered approaches to workforce development that better meet the needs and aspirations of their students. This approach has led to more engaged and empowered students who are better equipped to make smart decisions about their future. Siegel Family Foundation: A Pivotal Role in Success The success of the program can be attributed in large part to the pivotal role played by the Siegel Family Foundation as the funders. Their invaluable investment has not only advanced the vision and mission of the program but has also yielded significant value and positive outcomes. By aligning with the strategic focus of the Siegel Family Endowment on learning, workforce development, and infrastructure, the program has made a profound impact on the community while fostering stronger relationships with the participants. The generous support provided by the Siegel Family Foundation has enabled us to develop innovative and sustainable approaches to workforce development in Kentucky, closely resonating with the foundation’s core mission and unwavering commitment to supporting organizations operating at the intersections of learning, workforce development, and infrastructure. Since its inception, the program has directly addressed the critical challenges of the skills gap and worker shortage, identified as significant obstacles by the Siegel Family Endowment. By creating new pathways, emphasizing emerging workforce trends, and promoting career and technical education (CTE) and vocational programs, MindSpark equipped educators with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in promoting their chosen fields and providing alternative career pathways for their students. MindSpark’s collaborative efforts with educators, community leaders, and industry experts, tailored to meet the unique needs of each district and county, seamlessly align with the Siegel Family Endowment’s overarching goal of ensuring equitable access to transformative systems that drive change. MindSpark actively worked to confront social and economic inequities in education and the workforce, empowering individuals from all backgrounds to actively engage in and shape a rapidly evolving world. Tangible Impact: Mitigating Kentucky’s Workforce Challenges By effectively addressing the projected shortage of approximately 140,000 workers by the year 2028, MindSpark and the educators involved made significant strides in mitigating potential economic losses of up to $33 billion (equivalent to around $100 per person in the United States) for the state of Kentucky. Consequently, the program has laid a solid foundation for sustained economic growth and development in the region. Along with the Siegel Family Foundation, partnerships have played a crucial role in the project’s success, fostering a positive impact on MindSpark’s valued collaborators through increased opportunities for collaboration and innovation. By actively engaging partners, MindSpark created a platform for joint efforts in developing new pathways that not only enhance students’ awareness of career opportunities but also align them with the needs of their communities, emerging workforce trends, and vocational programs. As a result, these collaborative endeavors have contributed to the establishment of fresh pipelines that facilitate sustainable growth, bolstering the overall economic landscape of Kentucky.

MindSpark Learning collaborates with Massachusetts educators to secure the Targeted Assistance Grant, offering approximately $4.5 million to enhance educational equity and student achievement. We provide tailored support, including professional development and grant writing assistance, to align with state standards and effectively implement improvement initiatives. Top of Page About the Grant Partner With MindSpark How We Support You Our Partners Why We Do It Maximizing Your Grant Resources Hi, Massachusetts Educators! Are you ready to transform your school? With significant funding available to Massachusetts schools, MindSpark is your partner in securing and maximizing funding from this grant. The Targeted Assistance Grant is a unique opportunity to help your school implement your highest priority improvement initiatives. Let us help you turn your education goals into a reality! Receive Updates About the Grant The Center for School and District Partnership designed the Targeted Assistance Grant program to support the implementation of needs identified in the district prioritization or similar process used to determine the district's highest priority for improvement. The activities the district selects will promote educational equity by providing support that aligns with DESE's Educational Vision. Approximately $4,500,000 is available in funding to increase student achievement by expanding school districts' capacity to support and educate students who have traditionally been marginalized. LEARN MORE Grant Application Deadline: Monday, September 30, 2024, 5:00 PM Eastern These Funds Can Support: Develop and sustain a diverse, culturally responsive well-prepared workforce Cultivating systems to support the whole student Promotion of Deeper Learning Is My School Eligible? Eligible schools are those identified under the 2023 Massachusetts District and School Accountability System as in the bottom 10 percentiles, have a federal designation, or are identified as underperforming and supported by the Center for School and District Partnership (CSDP). Let MindSpark Be Your Partner in Grant Success Our non-profit partners with schools and educators to attain and utilize these types of unique funding to align with your state’s standards. Partnering with MindSpark means maximizing your chances of grant approval and ensuring the funds are used effectively to achieve your school's goals. Our proven track record and deep expertise in the field set us apart. We’ve secured over $700,000 in grant funding and never lost a grant we’ve partnered on. Grant Funding in 3 Easy Steps: 1 Discuss your school's needs and grant goals with MindSpark. We'll tailor learning experiences, create K-12 pathways, and align them with state requirements. Optional grant writing support is also available. 2 Collaborate with MindSpark to prepare and submit your grant application, ensuring all requirements are met comprehensively and professionally. 3 Funding received! Meet with MindSpark to strategize and map out initiatives, setting clear timelines to achieve your grant outcomes effectively. Thinking about applying for this grant? Talk with Jacki, our Vice President of Computer Science Education and Initiatives, to let us help you boost your chances of receiving funding from this grant. Email Jacki to Schedule a Call How We Support You Part of our mission is to support educators like you, to help you increase the likelihood of receiving grant funds with: Expert Grant Writing Providing writing support and recommendations for compelling proposals that win. Deep-Dive Research Identifying grants perfectly aligned with your school's mission. Strategic Partnership We build strong collaborations to enhance your grant application. Our Partners MindSpark is a proud member and partner with leading organizations dedicated to expanding access to education. Why We Do What We Do Our mission is clear: to increase access and opportunity for all students. Our goal is to increase and diversify the talent pipeline through participation in CS, STEM, and career-connected learning. By partnering with schools, we aim to: Develop a skilled workforce: Cultivate the talent pipeline for a skilled Massachusetts workforce. Enhance educational outcomes: Improve student achievement and support educators through innovative programs. Maximizing Your Grant Securing a grant is just the beginning. Effective implementation is key to realizing its full potential. MindSpark is your partner in transforming grant funds into impactful programs. We’ll work closely with you to ensure grant funds align perfectly with your school’s mission and vision. We understand that every school is unique. Valuable resources can be misallocated or underutilized. Our expertise lies in tailoring strategies to align with your school's specific needs and goals along with the new Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education standards . Our Focus is On: Teacher Professional Development Providing comprehensive and effective professional development. Curriculum Enhancement Developing engaging, standards-aligned curriculum. Resource Optimization Maximizing the impact of equipment and materials. Data-Driven Results Measuring and improving program effectiveness. Our Proven Track Record Speaks For Itself: We've successfully partnered with 108 out of 179 districts in our home state, and trained over 776 schools impacting more than 3,500 K-12 educators. READ MORE Resources to Support You Read the following resources about how we help support deeper learning: MindSpark’s Education Accelerator (EA) Model: Our EA is a professional learning experience for educators that provides an opportunity to develop instructional design, tiered systems, and structure. This model supports the three aspects of deeper learning defined by Massachusetts: identity, mastery, creativity) Igniting a Movement of Philanthropy Project: This project sparked creativity and innovation in students. We connected schools with community partners and increased student engagement to foster a positive learning environment where students thrive.

MindSpark Learning's Terms of Use outline the conditions governing access to our services, including website usage, content, and user responsibilities. By engaging with our offerings, users agree to comply with these terms, ensuring a secure and respectful environment. The policy also details procedures for modifications, acceptable use, and limitations of liability. For comprehensive information, please review the full Terms of Use on our website. MindSpark Terms of Use Last modified: October 3, 2024 Please review this Terms of Use (“Terms”) agreement (the “Agreement”) carefully as it applies to your use of online services and digital products of MindSpark (“Company” or “we” or “our” or “us”), including the Company websites located at https://www.mindspark.org/ and all subdomains thereof (the “Site”) offered by MindSpark. The Site along with any content, products and services made available on or through the Site are known collectively as the “Services”. 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Services Information We provide users of the Services with access to certain content, products, and services, which may include: (a) live streaming media (e.g., webcasts and groupcasts) and on-demand streaming media; (b) downloadable audio and video courses; (c) simulated testing software; (d) downloadable presentation materials; (e) downloadable publications; (f) blogs; (g) transcripts; and (h) Certifications and badges. The quality (e.g., the resolution) of streaming content, as well as the download speed of downloadable content, may be affected by a variety of factors, such as your location, the content being streamed or downloaded and the speed of your Internet connection. We make no representation or warranty regarding access to content available through or in connection with our Services, including the quality of streaming content and the download speed of downloadable content. The content provided through or in connection with the Services is designed to provide general information on the subject matter covered. 5. Use of Service We have made the Site available to you for your own personal, non-commercial use. We reserve the right to modify, withdraw, or deny access to this Site and any material we provide on the Site in our sole discretion without notice. From time to time, we may restrict access to some parts of the Site, or the entire Site, to users, including registered users. If we become aware of any possible violations of this Agreement, or if we, in our sole discretion, determine that you breached any portion of these Terms or have otherwise demonstrated conduct inappropriate for the Services, we reserve the right to: a. deactivate your Account; b. investigate your behavior, including any possible violations; c. refer the matter to, and cooperate with any applicable legal authorities; d. disclose any information in the Services to comply with applicable laws, legal processes, or governmental requests; e. enforce this Agreement; f. pursue any other action that we deem appropriate. 6. Account Creation and Security To access certain features of our Services you must be a user (“Registered User”) who has a registered customer account (“Account”). Registered Users may view information within their Accounts You may create an Account by visiting our Site and clicking [“Create and Account”] or by visiting [https://www.mindspark.org/plans-pricing]. There, you must enter the information requested, such as your first and last name, email address, mobile number, and a password. Once you enter the requested information and click [“submit,”] we will send an email to the email address you listed to verify your email address and activate your Account. Upon activation of your Account, we will send you another email via our third-party vendor to confirm the creation of your Account. It is a condition of your use of the Services that all information you provide to the Services is correct, current, and complete. You agree that all information you provide to register, including, but not limited to, through the use of any interactive features on the Services, is governed by these Terms, and you consent to all actions we take with respect to your information consistent with our Privacy Policy . If you create, or are provided with, a user name, password or any other piece of information as part of our security procedures and account registration, you must maintain this information as confidential, and you must not disclose it to any other person or entity or put it in position to be disclosed to any other person or entity. You also acknowledge that your account is personal to you and agree not to provide any other person with access to the Services through the sharing of your user name, password or other security information. You agree to notify us immediately of any unauthorized access to or use of your user name or password or any other breach of security. You also agree to ensure that you exit from your account at the end of each session. You should use caution when accessing your account from a public or shared computer so that others are not able to view or record your password or other personal information. We have the right to disable any user name, password or Account, whether chosen by you or provided by us, at any time in our sole discretion for any or no reason, including if, in our opinion, you have violated any provision of these Terms. 7. Information submitted by you through the Services Your submission of information through or in connection with any of the Services is governed by our Privacy Policy, which is located at https://www.mindspark.org/privacy-policy (the “Privacy Policy”). You agree that all information that you provide to us is true, accurate and complete, and that you will maintain and update such information regularly 8. Rules of Conduct You must comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations while accessing or using any of the Services. Users must also respect the rights and dignity of others. Your use of the Services is conditioned upon your compliance with the rules set forth in this section. You must not: A. Post, transmit, or otherwise make available, through or in connection with the Services, (a) anything that could be (i) threatening, harassing, discriminatory, degrading, hateful or intimidating; (ii) defamatory, fraudulent or otherwise tortious; (iii) obscene, indecent, pornographic or otherwise objectionable; or (iv) related to alcohol, wagering, gambling, tobacco products, ammunition or firearms; (b) anything that could give rise to criminal or civil liability (including any material protected by copyright, trademark, trade secret, right of publicity, or any other proprietary right for which you do not have the express prior consent of the owner of such right or in violation of any contractual, fiduciary or other legal obligation), or that encourages conduct that would constitute a criminal offense; (c) any virus, worm, Trojan horse, Easter egg, time bomb, spyware, or other computer code, file or program that is potentially harmful or invasive, or may or is intended to damage or hijack the operation of, or to monitor the use of, any hardware, software or equipment; (d) any unsolicited or unauthorized advertising, promotional material, “junk mail,” “spam,” “chain letter,” “pyramid scheme,” investment opportunity or other form of solicitation; or (e) any material, non-public information about a company or any securities or other financial instrument, without the proper authorization to do so. B. Use the Services (a) to defame, abuse, harass, stalk, threaten, harvest, or collect personally identifiable information, or otherwise violate the legal rights of others, including rights of privacy or publicity; (b) to impersonate any person or entity, or falsely state or otherwise misrepresent your affiliation with any person or entity, or state or imply that we endorse any of your statements or submissions; or (c) for any other fraudulent or unlawful purpose. C. Interfere with or disrupt the operation of the Services or the servers or networks used to make the Services available (including by taking any action that imposes an unreasonable or disproportionately large load upon the Site or other Services or upon such servers or networks) or violate any requirements, procedures, policies or regulations of such servers or networks. D. Restrict or inhibit any other person from using any of the Services including by hacking or defacing the Site. E. Use the Services to advertise or offer to sell or buy any goods or services. F. License, sublicense, transfer, assign, reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, resell, distribute, or exploit for any commercial purposes the Site or Services, or any access to or use of the Site or Services. G. Modify, adapt, make derivative works of, translate, reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble the Site or Services. H. Remove any copyright, trademark or other proprietary rights notice from the Services or any materials available on or through the Services. I. Frame or mirror any part of the Site or Services without our express prior written consent to do so. J. Systematically download or store content from the Site or Services. K. Use any robot, spider, site search/retrieval application or other manual or automatic device to retrieve, index, “scrape,” “data mine” or in any way gather content of the Services or in connection with the Services, or reproduce or circumvent the navigational structure or presentation of the Site or Services without our express prior written consent to do so. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we grant to the operators of public search engines permission to use spiders to copy materials from the Site for the sole purpose of and solely to the extent necessary for creating publicly available searchable indices of the materials, but not caches or archives of such materials. We reserve the right to revoke these exceptions either generally or in specific cases. L. Create a service or app that accepts or uses your Account credentials. You may not use an unauthorized app to access our Services. M. Attempt to bypass any of our security controls or APIs to access our Services. Additionally, you acknowledge and agree that you are solely responsible for obtaining and maintaining all telecommunications, broadband, and computer hardware, equipment and services needed to access and use any of the Services, and paying all charges related thereto. We may terminate your use of any or all of the Services for any conduct that we consider to be inappropriate or for your breach of this Agreement, including the Rules of Conduct set forth above including if you repeatedly engage in copyright infringement via or in connection with the Services. 9. Intellectual Property The Services and all its content, including, without limitation, all text, software (including source code), designs, icons, graphics, images, audio visual materials, selection, coordination, and information (“Site Materials” ) is the proprietary property of MindSpark, our licensors, or other providers of such material and are protected by United States and international copyright, trademark, patent, trade secret and other intellectual property or proprietary rights laws. We grant you a limited, revocable, non-exclusive, non-transferable, non-assignable, non-commercial license to browse, access and view the Site Materials made available to our users. You must not reproduce, distribute, modify, create derivative works of, publicly display, publicly perform, republish, download, store, or transmit any of the material on our Services, except as follows: a. Your computer may temporarily store copies of such materials in RAM incidental to your accessing and viewing those materials. b. You may store files that are automatically cached by your browser for display enhancement purposes. c. You may print or download one copy of a reasonable number of pages of the Service for your own personal, non-commercial use and not for further reproduction, publication, or distribution. d. If we provide Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok, or other social media platform (collectively , “Social Media ”) with certain content, you may take such actions as are enabled by such features . You are not authorized to sell, reproduce, distribute, communicate, modify, display, publicly perform, report or otherwise prepare derivative or second-hand works based on or use any Service or Site Materials in any way for any public or commercial purposes. Also, Site Materials may not be displayed or communicated on any other platform, in a networked computer environment, or on any other digital platform for any purpose whatsoever. In the event of breach of any of these Terms, your permission to use the Services and Site Materials will automatically terminate and any copies made of Site Materials must be immediately destroyed. Any unauthorized use of the Services or Site Materials may infringe copyright laws, trademark laws, the laws of privacy and publicity, and communications regulations and statutes. [MindSpark Learning and MindSpark] and all related graphics, logos, and service marks are trademarks of the Company and may not be copied, imitated or used, in whole or in part, without our prior written permission. Other trademarks, service marks, and trade names that may appear within the Services are the property of their respective owners. Nothing contained in the Services should be construed as granting, by implication or otherwise, any license or right to use any trademark without our prior written permission or that of such third party who owns the trademark. Misuse of any trademark displayed on or within the Services, except as provided herein, is strictly prohibited. 10. Third Party Content; Links The Services may incorporate certain functionality that allows the routing and transmission of, and online access to, certain digital communications and content made available by third parties, including social media providers (such communications and content, “Third Party Content”). By using such functionality, you acknowledge and agree that you are directing us to access and transmit to you Third Party Content associated with such functionality. The Services may provide or incorporate links to other web sites and online resources that include Third Party Content. Because we do not control Third Party Content, you agree that we are neither responsible nor liable for any Third Party Content, including the accuracy, integrity, quality, legality, usefulness, or safety of, or intellectual property rights relating to, Third Party Content. We have no obligation to monitor Third Party Content, and we may block or disable access to any Third-Party Content via the Services at any time. Your access to or receipt of Third Party Content via the Services does not imply our endorsement of, or our affiliation with any provider of, such Third-Party Content. Also, your use of Third Party Content may be governed by additional terms and conditions that are not set forth in this Agreement or our Privacy Policy. This Agreement does not create any legal relationship between you and the providers of such Third Party Content with respect to such Third Party Content, and nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to be a representation or warranty by us with respect to any Third Party Content. YOU AGREE THAT YOUR USE OF THIRD PARTY CONTENT IS AT YOUR OWN RISK AND IS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE APPLICABLE TO SUCH THIRD PARTY CONTENT. We shall have the right, at any time, to block links to the Services through technological or other means without prior notice. 11. Disclaimer of Warranties THE SERVICES AND ANY GOODS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SERVICES, ARE PROVIDED TO YOU “AS IS” WITHOUT ANY REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY. YOU AGREE THAT YOU MUST EVALUATE, AND THAT YOU BEAR ALL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH, ACCESS TO AND USE OF THE SERVICES, INCLUDING ANY RELIANCE ON THE ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS OR USEFULNESS OF ANY MATERIALS AVAILABLE ON OR THROUGH THE SERVICES. WE DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE SERVICES AND ANY GOODS OBTAINED OR MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SERVICES (INCLUDING THIRD PARTY CONTENT, PRODUCTS, AND SERVICES) TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE UNDER APPLICABLE LAW, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, NONINFRINGEMENT AND TITLE. 12. Limitation of Liability The laws of certain states and jurisdictions do not allow the limitation of liability or certain damages. If these laws apply to you, some or all of the below limitations may not apply to you, and you may have additional rights. WE WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, UNDER ANY CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHER THEORY, INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, USE, DATA, LOSS OF OTHER INTANGIBLES, LOSS OF SECURITY OF INFORMATION YOU HAVE PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR USE OF ANY OF THE SERVICES, OR UNAUTHORIZED INTERCEPTION OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION BY THIRD PARTIES, EVEN IF ADVISED IN ADVANCE OF SUCH DAMAGES OR LOSSES. IN PARTICULAR, AND WITHOUT LIMITATION, WE WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES OF ANY KIND RESULTING FROM YOUR ACCESS TO OR USE OF, OR INABILITY TO ACCESS OR USE, THE SERVICES, OR FROM ANY CONTENT POSTED ON OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SERVICES BY US OR ANY THIRD PARTY. OR RESULTING FROM ANY RECORDINGS MADE BY US OR OUR REPRESENTATIVES. YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR DISSATISFACTION WITH THE SERVICES IS TO STOP USING THE SERVICES. THE MAXIMUM LIABILITY OF US FOR ALL DAMAGES, LOSSES AND CAUSES OF ACTION, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, SHALL BE THE TOTAL AMOUNT, IF ANY, PAID BY YOU TO US TO ACCESS AND USE THE SERVICES IN THE TWELVE (12) MONTHS PRECEDING THE FIRST INCIDENT RESULTING IN SUCH DAMAGE, LOSS OR CAUSE OF ACTION. While we try to maintain the integrity and security of the Services and the servers from which the Services are operated, we do not guarantee that the Services will be or remain secure, complete, or correct, or that access to the Services will be uninterrupted. The Services may include inaccuracies, errors and materials that violate or conflict with this Agreement. Also, third parties may make unauthorized alterations to the Services. If you become aware of any unauthorized third-party alteration to the Services, contact us at Support@mindspark.org with a description of the material(s) at issue and the URL or location on the Services where such material(s) appear. 13. Indemnification You agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its affiliates, licensors and service providers, and its and their respective officers, directors, employees, contractors, agents, licensors, suppliers, successors and assigns from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, judgments, awards, losses, costs, expenses or fees (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising out of or relating to your violation of these Terms or your use of the Services, including, but not limited to, any use of the Service’s content, services and products other than as expressly authorized in these Terms, or your use of any information obtained from the Services. 14. Termination This Agreement is effective until terminated. We may terminate your access to or use of the Services, at any time and for any reason, including if we believe that you have violated or acted inconsistently with this Agreement. Upon termination, your right to access or use the Services will immediately cease. You agree that any termination of your access to or use of the Services may occur without prior notice, and that we may immediately deactivate or delete your password and user name, and all related information and files associated with it, and bar any further access to such information or files. You agree that we shall not be liable to you or any third party for any termination of your access to the Services or to any such information or files, and shall not be required to make such information or files available to you after any such termination. Applicable sections of this agreement shall survive any expiration or termination of this Agreement. 15. Governing Law and Arbitration This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Colorado, U.S.A., without regard to its conflicts of law provisions, and regardless of your location. ALL DISPUTES ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT, YOUR USE OF THE SERVICES, ANY RECORDING, OR ANY ASPECT OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN YOU AND MINDSPARK INCLUDING OUR COLLECTION, STORAGE, USE AND DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION PURSUANT TO OUR PRIVACY POLICY, WHETHER BASED IN CONTRACT, TORT, STATUTE, FRAUD, MISREPRESENTATION OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY, SHALL BE RESOLVED THROUGH FINAL AND BINDING ARBITRATION BEFORE A NEUTRAL ARBITRATOR INSTEAD OF IN A COURT BY A JUDGE OR JURY. BY YOUR ACCESS TO OR USE OF ANY OF THE SERVICES, YOU AGREE THAT YOU AND MINDSPARK ARE EACH WAIVING OUR RIGHT TO TRIAL BY A JURY. BY YOUR ACCESS TO OR USE OF ANY OF THE SERVICES, YOU AGREE THAT ANY ARBITRATION UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL TAKE PLACE ON AN INDIVIDUAL BASIS; CLASS ARBITRATIONS AND CLASS ACTIONS ARE NOT PERMITTED AND, BY YOUR ACCESS TO OR USE OF ANY OF THE SERVICES, YOU ARE AGREEING TO GIVE UP THE ABILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLASS ACTION. The arbitration will be administered by the American Arbitration Association under its Commercial Arbitration Rules, as amended by this Agreement. Any in-person hearings or appearances shall be held in Jefferson County, State of Colorado, U.S.A. Arbitration proceedings shall be conducted in a manner that preserves confidentiality. The arbitrator’s decision shall follow this Agreement and shall be final and binding. The arbitrator shall have authority to award temporary, interim, or permanent injunctive relief or relief providing for specific performance of this Agreement, but only to the extent necessary to provide relief warranted by the individual claim before the arbitrator. The award rendered by the arbitrator may be confirmed and enforced in any court having jurisdiction thereof. 16. Payments a. When you place an order for Services on our Site, you must provide us with information from your valid credit card [(Visa, Mastercard, or any other issuer accepted by us)] or by [PayPal account] (“Payment Provider”, and “Payment Provider Account”). You agree to pay all charges listed in the checkout process when you submit an order in accordance with the fees, charges, and billing terms in effect at the time the charge is due and payable. b. Your payment provider agreement governs your use of the designated payment provider account, and you must refer to the agreement, and not these Terms to determine your rights and liabilities. c. By providing us with your payment provider account, you agree that we are authorized to immediately charge your payment provider account for all charges due and payable to us in connection with your order and that no additional notice or consent is required. d. You agree to immediately notify us of any change in your billing address or payment provider account used for payment hereunder. e. We use a third-party service provider for payment services. [We are compliant with PCI-DSS.] [We do not hold any of your payment details anywhere on the Site. They are passed securely to our payments processor Stripe for authorization by your bank or payment provider. Information that you submit to the Site will be transmitted to and shared with these third parties, which may be located in other countries, in order to provide the Services, including but not limited to transaction processing and fraud protection.] 17. Waiver and Severability No waiver by the Company of any term or condition set forth in these Terms shall be deemed a further or continuing waiver of such term or condition or a waiver of any other term or condition, and any failure of the Company to assert a right or provision under these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision. If any provision of these Terms is held by a court or other tribunal of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable for any reason, such provision shall be eliminated or limited to the minimum extent such that the remaining provisions of the Terms will continue in full force and effect. 18. Entire Agreement These Terms of Use, our Privacy Policy, together with all policies referred to herein, is the entire Agreement between you and us relating to the subject matter herein and supersedes any and all prior or contemporaneous written or oral agreements or understandings between you and Company relating to such subject matter. 19. Miscellaneous This Agreement does not, and shall not be construed to, create any partnership, joint venture, employer-employee, agency, or franchisor-franchisee relationship between you and us. You may not assign, transfer, or sublicense any or all of your rights or obligations under this Agreement without our express prior written consent, and any prohibited assignment, transfer or sublicense is void. We may assign, transfer, or sublicense any or all of our rights or obligations under this Agreement without restriction. Any heading, caption or section title contained herein is inserted only as a matter of convenience, and in no way defines or explains any section or provision hereof. The use of “including” is not exhaustive, unless qualified by words such as “only” or “solely.” Notices to you may be made via posting to the Site or through the Services, by e-mail, or by regular mail, in our discretion. The Site or Services may also provide notices of changes to this Agreement or other matters by displaying such notices or by providing links to such notices. Without limitation, you agree that a printed version of this Agreement and of any notice given in electronic form shall be admissible in judicial or administrative proceedings based upon or relating to this Agreement to the same extent and subject to the same conditions as other business documents and records originally generated and maintained in printed form. We will not be responsible for failures to fulfill any obligations due to causes beyond our control. 20. Information or Complaints If you have a question or complaint regarding the Services, please contact us by writing to: MindSpark Learning, 455 S. Pierce St. Lakewood CO, 80226, or by e-mailing us at Support@mindspark.org , or by calling us at 303-963-5390. Please note that e-mail communications will not necessarily be secure; accordingly, you should not include payment information (such as credit card information) or other sensitive information in your e-mail correspondence with us. California residents may reach Consumer Information Center of the California Department of Consumer Affairs by mail at 1625 North Market Blvd., Suite N-112, Sacramento, CA 95834, or by telephone at 800.952.5210.

MindSpark Learning assists Virginia educators in securing the Advancing Computer Science Education Grant, offering up to $75,000 to enhance CS programs. We provide tailored support, including grant writing and professional development, to align with the 2024 Virginia Computer Science Standards of Learning. Top of Page About the Grant Partner With MindSpark How We Support You Why We Do It Our Partners Maximizing Your Grant Resources Hi, Virginia Educators! Are you ready to transform your school? With significant Computer Science (CS) funding available to Virginia schools, MindSpark is your partner in securing and maximizing funding from this grant. The Advancing Computer Science Education Grant is a unique opportunity to receive grant funding for your school and your CS programs. Let us help you turn your CS education goals into a reality. Receive Updates About the Grant The Virginia Department of Education is offering the Advancing Computer Science Education Grant to fund the development of high-quality instructional computer science instructional resources and high-quality professional development aligned to the 2024 Virginia Computer Science Standards of Learning and extend computer science learning opportunities for students. Your school could earn up to $75,000 in funding. LEARN MORE Use of Program Funds: Deadlines: Grant Application: Friday, September 06 Professional Learning & Instructional Resources Student Programs – Experiences and Engagement Implementation or Sustainability Is My School Eligible? All Virginia public school divisions (LEA), full-time regional public schools, and programs with a local or regional school board, are eligible to submit a proposal. Let MindSpark Be Your Partner in Grant Success Our non-profit partners with schools and educators to attain and utilize these types of unique funding to align with your state’s standards. Partnering with MindSpark means maximizing your chances of grant approval and ensuring the funds are used effectively to achieve your school's goals. Our proven track record and deep expertise in the field set us apart. We’ve secured over $700,000 in grant funding and never lost a grant we’ve partnered on. Grant Funding in 3 Easy Steps: 1 Discuss your school's needs and grant goals with MindSpark. We'll tailor learning experiences, create K-12 pathways, and align them with state requirements. Optional grant writing support is also available. 2 Collaborate with MindSpark to prepare and submit your grant application, ensuring all requirements are met comprehensively and professionally. 3 Funding received! Meet with MindSpark to strategize and map out initiatives, setting clear timelines to achieve your grant outcomes effectively. Thinking about applying for this grant? Talk with Jacki, our Vice President of Computer Science Education and Initiatives, to let us help you boost your chances of receiving funding from this grant. Email Jacki to Schedule a Call How We Support You Our mission includes supporting educators like you to enhance your chances of securing grant funds through: Expert Grant Writing Providing writing support and recommendations for compelling proposals that win. Deep-Dive Research Identifying grants perfectly aligned with your school's mission. Strategic Partnership We build strong collaborations to enhance your grant application. Why We Do What We Do Our mission is clear: to increase access and opportunity for all students. Our goal is to increase and diversify the talent pipeline through participation in CS, STEM, and career-connected learning. By partnering with schools, we aim to: Develop a skilled workforce: Cultivate the talent pipeline for Virginia’s computer science industries. Enhance educational outcomes: Improve student achievement and support educators through innovative programs. Our Partners MindSpark is a proud member and partner with leading organizations dedicated to expanding access to STEM education. Maximizing Your Grant Securing a grant is just the beginning. Effective implementation is key to realizing its full potential. MindSpark is your partner in transforming grant funds into impactful programs. We’ll work closely with you to ensure grant funds align perfectly with your school’s mission and vision. We understand that every school is unique. Valuable resources can be misallocated or underutilized. Our expertise lies in tailoring strategies to align with your school's specific needs and goals along with the new Virginia 2024 Computer Science Standards of Learning . Our Focus is On: Teacher Professional Development Providing comprehensive and effective professional development. Curriculum Enhancement Developing engaging, standards-aligned CS curriculum. Resource Optimization Maximizing the impact of equipment and materials. Data-Driven Results Measuring and improving program effectiveness. Our Proven Track Record Speaks For Itself: We've successfully partnered with 108 out of 179 districts in our home state, and trained over 776 schools impacting more than 3,500 K-12 educators. READ MORE Resources to Support You Girls in STEM Club Playbook Boost CS access and engagement with our 12-week curriculum. Designed for grades 3-8, this playbook includes free lessons, activities, and a proven model for reaching underrepresented students. Applied AI Trail Guide Explore MindSpark's Applied AI (AAI) Trail Guide for insights into the commitments and beliefs shaping our AI practices. As a leader in AI education, the AAI Trail Guide is a testament to our expertise, reflecting our commitment to staying at the forefront of AI education.

Explore detailed course descriptions for MindSpark OnDemand: self-paced, online professional development built for today’s educators. Start learning today! Created for teachers, by teachers. Your Next Step in Professional Growth MindSpark OnDemand offers a library of self-paced, classroom-relevant online courses built to support educators in today’s rapidly evolving learning environments. Below, you’ll find detailed information about each of our educator-focused courses and featured learning tools included in your OnDemand Unlimited subscription. Whether you’re new to technology in education or ready to lead change, our platform is built to meet you where you are and help you move forward with confidence. OnDemand Course Library: Responsible AI (RAI) As AI becomes increasingly prevalent in society day-to-day, it is crucial (now more than ever) to educate students on how to use and critically analyze the outputs of AI systems. Responsible AI Foundations will focus on AI and Responsible Artificial Intelligence (RAI) at an introductory level. We'll discuss the foundations of AI systems and how to use/implement AI responsibly in the classroom. In this program, we'll start making connections between AI and the downstream impacts it presents (both positive and challenging impacts). Applied AI (AAI) In a world where technology and education merge, the future of learning unfolds before our eyes. We now have entered a new era of education. One that will incorporate artificial intelligence. The 'Applied Artificial Intelligence for Educators' certification program is a groundbreaking journey into the heart of tomorrow's education. Experience AI's power, transforming how you’ll teach, learn, and grow. Our comprehensive program equips you with cutting-edge skills, practical knowledge, and real-world applications of AI in the classroom. It’s time for a shift of mindset where educators collaborate with AI. Be at the forefront of educational evolution. Upskill your teaching with AI. Prompt Engineering in the Classroom (PEC) Unlock the full potential of AI in education with our dynamic course on AI Prompt Engineering and the PTCF Framework. By using basic commands, discover how to craft prompts that elevate student learning and streamline your teaching workflow. This course is perfect for educators who want to move beyond basic AI interactions to create meaningful learning experiences. Whether you're AI-curious or already experimenting with prompts, this course will revolutionize how you leverage AI in your classroom. No more random AI responses—just purposeful, pedagogically-sound prompting that works. Join us and become fluent in the language of AI education! Career-Connected Learning (CCL) In today's rapidly changing educational landscape, it's crucial for educators to not only impart knowledge but also to empower students with the skills and insights they need to navigate their future careers successfully. Career Connected Learning combines practical strategies, cutting-edge resources, and a deep understanding of the importance of career development. This program aims to upskill educators and administrators to guide and inspire their students toward fulfilling and meaningful careers. Unlock Unlimited SparkPrompts for AI Try SparkPrompts Welcome to SparkPrompts for AI, where innovation meets education in the realm of Artificial Intelligence. SparkPrompts for AI is a series of prompts, created to help, guide, and support educators in their AI explorations. Each prompt offers unique benefits and opportunities for professional growth. In addition to each prompt, we've developed an interactive simulation specifically for educators. This experience will take you on an immersive journey where you’ll communicate directly with an AI model. While we encourage interaction with AI programs, this simulation acts as a stepping stone for those taking their first strides into the world of natural language processing in AI. A Platform Built for Future-Ready Educators Flexible Online Learning Access course content anytime, anywhere, on your schedule. Designed for Impact Our courses are designed to improve teaching outcomes and ultimately benefit your students. Affordable & Accessible With budget-friendly pricing, you can focus on learning without breaking the bank. Engaging Community Join a vibrant network of educators and school administrators in our community chat, where ideas are shared and solutions are found. Certification Opportunities Boost your skills and credibility by earning certifications for a low additional cost. Subscribe Today

Learn how MindSpark’s Microschool Entrepreneurship Accelerator program helped educators innovate and transform education in the post-pandemic era. Transforming Education Through Microschool Innovation In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the field of education underwent a seismic shift. Traditional educational institutions grappled with adapting to the rapidly changing landscape, prompting parents to explore alternative educational avenues. This is the story of Microschools, small-scale, private, and personalized learning environments that emerged as a response to these challenges, and how MindSpark played a supportive role in nurturing the educators driving this innovation. Fostering the Growth of Microschools While Microschools had existed for some time, they gained considerable attention and traction in the post-pandemic era. The frustrations brought on by COVID-19 closures led parents to seek innovative educational options. This growing interest illuminated the unique potential of Microschools, characterized by their flexibility and community-centered approach. MindSpark recognized this potential and initiated the Microschool Entrepreneurship Accelerator (EA) program in Colorado, aimed at equipping educators with the tools, knowledge, and network necessary to thrive in this evolving landscape. A Vision of Collaboration: Microschool EA The Microschool EA program was designed with a clear goal: to bridge the isolation often felt by Microschool leaders and entrepreneurs. It aimed to create a diverse cohort of educational pioneers, demystify the Microschool experience, and empower educators to drive innovation within their respective organizations. The program's initial cohort included Be Wild, La Luz, United Hearts, Confluence Microschool, and Academic Advocates. The program's core focus was on creating a collaborative community of innovative educators. Through responsive design sessions, all participants were encouraged to contribute their insights, ensuring collective wisdom took precedence. The program dedicated "sacred" time for collective dreaming, planning, and action-taking, fostering a vibrant community of edu-preneurs. Addressing Challenges Head-On A significant facet of the Microschool EA was the identification and resolution of challenges. The program commenced with a disruptive kickoff experience that prompted participants to conduct gap audits. These audits allowed Microschool leaders to pinpoint their most pressing organizational issues, such as recruitment, financial sustainability, donor partnerships, and marketing. They then developed Level Up plans to monitor their progress toward these goals. The Microschool EA breathed new life into the participating organizations, igniting fresh creativity and collaboration. It catalyzed a spirit of innovation that translated into tangible improvements. Empowering Leadership Throughout the eight-month program, MindSpark provided leadership content to help participants manage and lead effective organizations. Expert guest speakers were invited to share their insights and experiences, focusing on critical areas like marketing, social media, and donor relationships. These topics were identified based on the participants' specific needs, ensuring the content remained responsive. Transformation in Action Two Microschools, La Luz and Catch a Star Academy, offer compelling examples of the Microschool EA's transformative impact. La Luz entered the program as an active school with a mission to secure sustainable funding, partnerships, and donors. However, their journey revealed that they needed a revamp of their mission, communication, and marketing. During the Microschool EA, La Luz improved its messaging, mission communication, and marketing reach. They became one of the top results in Google searches for "alternative education in Denver." The parents of La Luz students expressed pride in their school's transformation and actively supported it by forming a parent organization. Catch a Star Academy experienced a similar transformation, increasing their enrollment by a staggering 500% during the program. They focused on developing a media and social media identity, leveraging expert volunteers to achieve their goals. Today, Catch a Star Academy is active on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, showcasing their students and their unique experiences. The Domino Effect: Impact on Families While the Microschool EA aimed to empower educators and innovators, it had an unexpected and significant impact on families. La Luz, for instance, not only improved its outreach but also saw its enrollment capped for the upcoming school year. Catch a Star Academy similarly experienced a remarkable increase in enrollment. These outcomes underscore the growing demand for alternative educational options and the significance of family input in shaping educational choices. Building a Stronger Community Beyond individual successes, the Microschool EA played a pivotal role in strengthening the alternative education community in Denver. Through various gatherings and increased political involvement, this collective of educators and innovators became a force for positive change. A Lesson in the Power of Innovation The Microschool EA exemplifies the transformative power of innovation in education. In a post-pandemic world hungry for educational alternatives, this program not only nurtured Microschools but also empowered educators to think creatively and collaboratively. The journeys of La Luz and Catch a Star Academy serve as reminders that with the right support and resources, educators can overcome challenges, adapt, and thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of education as the Microschool community helps reshape the future of education in Denver.

MindSpark Learning assists Georgia educators in securing the Computer Science Teacher Credential Grant and the Computer Science Teacher Equipment and Community Grant, offering up to $15,000 and $10,000 per district, respectively. We provide tailored support, including professional development and grant writing assistance, to align with state standards and enhance computer science education. Top of Page About the Grant Partner With MindSpark How We Support You Why We Do It Our Partners Maximizing Your Grant Resources Hi, Georgia Educators! Are you ready to transform your school? With significant Computer Science (CS) funding available to Georgia schools, MindSpark is your partner in securing and maximizing funding from this grant. Let us help you turn your CS education goals into a reality! About the Grants There are two grants available for Georgia schools and districts at this time: The Computer Science Teacher Credential Grant is intended to support broadening participation in K-12 Computer Science education by providing funding for teacher professional development and training, teacher certifications, and teacher endorsements for middle and high school CS teachers. A maximum of $300,000 in grant funds is available, with up to $15,000 awarded per district . Georgia LEAs are eligible to apply. The Computer Science Teacher Equipment and Community Grant provides support for all students to engage in computer science experiences. This grant offers professional support for instruction, practice, and pedagogy, including the use of physical computing to engage students in computer science education. A maximum of $200,000 will be awarded in grants for the FY25 school year, up to $10,000 per district. Georgia LEAs are eligible to apply. LEARN MORE Deadlines: Both of these grant applications are due October 1, 2024, 5 PM Let MindSpark Be Your Partner in Grant Success Our non-profit partners with schools and educators to attain and utilize these types of unique funding to align with your state’s standards. Partnering with MindSpark means maximizing your chances of grant approval and ensuring the funds are used effectively to achieve your school's goals. Our proven track record and deep expertise in the field set us apart. We’ve secured over $700,000 in grant funding and never lost a grant we’ve partnered on. Grant Funding in 3 Easy Steps: 1 Discuss your school's needs and grant goals with MindSpark. We'll tailor learning experiences, create K-12 pathways, and align them with state requirements. Optional grant writing support is also available. 2 Collaborate with MindSpark to prepare and submit your grant application, ensuring all requirements are met comprehensively and professionally. 3 Funding received! Meet with MindSpark to strategize and map out initiatives, setting clear timelines to achieve your grant outcomes effectively. Thinking about applying for this grant? Talk with Jacki, our Vice President of Computer Science Education and Initiatives, to let us help you boost your chances of receiving funding from this grant. Email Jacki to Schedule a Call How We Support You Our mission includes supporting educators like you to enhance your chances of securing grant funds through: Expert Grant Writing Providing writing support and recommendations for compelling proposals that win. Deep-Dive Research Identifying grants perfectly aligned with your school's mission. Strategic Partnership We build strong collaborations to enhance your grant application. Why We Do What We Do Our mission is clear: to increase access and opportunity for all students. Our goal is to increase and diversify the talent pipeline through participation in CS, STEM, and career-connected learning. By partnering with schools, we aim to: Develop a skilled workforce: Cultivate the talent pipeline for Georgia's computer science industries. Enhance educational outcomes: Improve student achievement and support educators through innovative programs. Our Partners MindSpark is a proud member and partner with leading organizations dedicated to expanding access to STEM education. Maximizing Your Grant Securing a grant is just the beginning. Effective implementation is key to realizing its full potential. MindSpark is your partner in transforming grant funds into impactful programs. We’ll work closely with you to ensure grant funds align perfectly with your school’s mission and vision. We understand that every school is unique. Valuable resources can be misallocated or underutilized. Our expertise lies in tailoring strategies to align with your school's specific needs and goals along with the new Georgia Standards of Excellence for Computer Science. Our Focus is On: Teacher Professional Development Providing comprehensive and effective professional development. Curriculum Enhancement Developing engaging, standards-aligned CS curriculum. Resource Optimization Maximizing the impact of equipment and materials. Data-Driven Results Measuring and improving program effectiveness. Our Proven Track Record Speaks For Itself: We've successfully partnered with 108 out of 179 districts in our home state, and trained over 776 schools impacting more than 3,500 K-12 educators. READ MORE Resources to Support You Girls in STEM Club Playbook Boost CS access and engagement with our 12-week curriculum. Designed for grades 3-8, this playbook includes free lessons, activities, and a proven model for reaching underrepresented students. Applied AI Trail Guide Explore MindSpark's Applied AI (AAI) Trail Guide for insights into the commitments and beliefs shaping our AI practices. As a leader in AI education, the AAI Trail Guide is a testament to our expertise, reflecting our commitment to staying at the forefront of AI education.

Support the spark of positive change through education equity! Donate now to help Colorado-based nonprofit MindSpark Learning bridge educational gaps in underserved communities through customized professional development for educators. Your contribution works to uplift educators, enhance student learning, and foster lasting prosperity. Join us in transforming education for a brighter future. Double Your Impact: All Monthly Donations Matched This season, your gift can make a difference for teachers and students. DONATE "MindSpark gave us all the tools, everything we needed to inspire these kids. In all my 17 years of being a teacher, I never had professional development as great as the one I’ve had here. MindSpark is a wonderful opportunity every teacher should have ." - Saul, Middle School Educator Invest in a Brighter Future Through Education Education is a universal experience, however the quality of education varies significantly, particularly in under resourced areas. MindSpark aims to address this issue by upskilling educators, helping them solve their biggest problems, and uplifting their economies. Your support can make a meaningful impact in transforming the educational landscape for those who need it most. MindSpark is a national nonprofit working to upskill educators in highly impacted communities by equipping them with the human capital to solve some of their most urgent problems. Everyone Deserves the Chance to Receive a Quality Education. DONATE We believe in a world where underserved communities have the exposure, access, and education that allows them to prosper. The caliber of education varies widely, particularly in under-resourced areas. MindSpark aims to promote educational equity by upskilling educators with customized professional learning experiences, offering innovative strategies that support teachers to face their biggest challenges, increase their capacity, and ultimately create positive change that goes beyond the classroom to uplift entire communities. Your support can make a meaningful impact in transforming the educational landscape for those who need it most. THIS IS WHAT CHANGE LOOKS LIKE WE'VE IMPACTED: 91K EDUCATORS 2.7M STUDENTS 50 STATES 88 COUNTRIES We've seen the impact of this work. Students are more engaged in school, educators are more satisfied, communities are more connected, and economies flourish. Together, we can change the future of education. Interested in more holistic partnership, collaboration or volunteering? Let's Connect!

STEMpath is a game-changing program that combines work-based learning through industry externships, rigorous coursework, and professional learning. This is a graduate-level STEM and Computer Science certificate for educators at all grade-levels and disciplines. STEMpath builds critically needed STEM teaching capacity to increase career and college readiness for all students. STEMpath Upskilling educators to teach Computer Science STEMpath 2024 is now…STEMpath 2025! We’ve changed the date to optimize the program. Questions? Email: stempath@mindspark.org STEMpath is a 24-credit graduate-level computer science certificate program. This program combines industry-driven coursework, work-based learning through externships, and professional learning for educators at all grade-levels and disciplines. STEMpath increases the number of highly-qualified STEM and Computer Science (CS) teachers, creates relevancy and excitement for students, and ultimately creates a system change by increasing the number of students entering the STEM workforce. Each STEMpath cohort is made up of teachers from all grade-levels and disciplines across the United States. 75% of STEMpath graduates have received a promotion and pay raise. 19K students have been positively impacted by STEMpath trained educators. 83% of graudates report "strong" confidence in their ability to teach computer science. 2025 STEMpath Viewbook: Download Ready to get started? STEMpath Application Structure The 12-month program is broken down into three semesters with each cohort starting each January. Semester 1 Information Science, Equity-Centered Design Thinking, and Career Literacy courses with MindSpark Semester 2 6 week Externship with an industry partner Semester 3 Algorithms and Programming, IT Systems, and Cybersecurity courses with a higher education partner Download STEMpath Chronicle Case Studies STEMpath Calls an Educator Back to Teaching; Students “come alive” in STEM Lab and Maker Space After almost a decade, Anna Kwan stopped teaching. She left the Denver Public Schools District (DPS), gave all her teaching materials away, and let the teaching license she’d worked so hard for expire. She took a job traveling across the globe, but it didn’t last. She missed her students and the classroom. Download Case Study STEMpath Alumni Testimonials: "STEMpath was a vital piece for preparing my students to the modern-day workforce because it updating my vocabulary and lens on employability skills... I can now legitimately encourage students interested in becoming visual artists that learning to program will benefit them in an art career." Kelsey R., Computer Science and Engineering Read More Frequently Asked Questions: Is STEMpath a Graduate, or Masters Degree? STEMpath is not a Masters degree, it is a Masters certificate program. STEMpath participants earn 24 graduate-level credits. What is the timeline of the program? STEMpath is one year long. It’s broken up into three semesters– classes facilitated by MindSpark Learning, a 6-week externship with an industry partner, and lastly graduate level courses at MSU (Metropolitan State University). Do I have to have a teaching license? Yes, you must have a teaching license or be in pursuit of one at the time of your application. Educators at K-12 public, private, or charter schools may apply. Do I have to have prior experience in computer science, coding, etc.? No, any K-12 educators are eligible to apply whether they are at private, public or charter schools, regardless of religious affiliation. We welcome ALL K-12 educators! Is this a virtual/remote program? Yes – STEMpath is virtual! All synchronous classes are held in Mountain Standard Time, via Zoom. What is the cost of the program? Donations from community and industry partners make it possible to establish an educator scholarship fund each year. While the total cost of this program is valued at $14,000 USD for the 24-credit certificate, your cost will be no more than $5,400 USD. What are the payment options? Please contact stempath@mindspark.org to discuss flexible tuition payment options. In some cases, a school district will sponsor an educator; we’d love to discuss this possibility with you! What is the typical workload for this program? The STEMpath certification is designed for educators. We understand that during the school year, teachers are busy, and time is limited. Therefore, all classes are virtual/remote. While we do accommodate the best we can, we do like to acknowledge that this is 24 graduate credits, which requires a time commitment. There are three semesters: 9 credits remotely with MindSpark, 6 remote externship credits in the summer and 9 remote credits with Metropolitan State University of Denver. What does the summer externship entail? The summer externship is 6 weeks long. Educators are paired with one of our industry partners. It is remote/virtual. STEMpathers speak highly of this experience and gain valuable insight into the relevance of STEM/CS skills in the workplace. What's the deal with scholarships? The full program cost of STEMpath is $14,000 USD, but with scholarship money and other generous donations we are able to offer STEMpath for $5,400. Still have questions? Our team is here to help! Contact us today. STEMpath Program Partners

Discover an innovative approach to education with Problem Based Learning. Explore how MindSpark Learning in Lakewood, CO is revolutionizing learning. Problem-Based Learning Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a holistic educational approach that promotes entrepreneurial mindsets in agile learners who contribute fully to a diverse, interconnected, and changing world. The impact leads to evolving educational and economic landscapes by engaging students, schools and communities in authentic problem solving. Spark Student Brilliance Contact Us About PBL Too many young people are entering the workforce without the skills, knowledge, and experiences required by employers, and too few schools offer the experience to provide real-world, work-based skills and identities. The bulk of the skills gap is the result of an educational system that hasn’t had the opportunity to connect and evolve with industry. It’s time to start thinking about systems as a fluid network that break boundaries, cross-pollinate, and keep moving towards the same goal of innovation. PBL Unleashed is the conduit between education and industry. Knowledge Retention Since PBL is an interactive process there is significant, long-term impact on knowledge retention and application Workforce Skills PBL increases students' workforce skills like critical analysis, practical problem-solving, teamwork, and communication Entrepreneurial Mindsets PBL Unleashed fosters growth mindsets, student engagement, risk-taking, and resilience Career Literacy PBL connects students with industry exposing them to a variety of professions and high priority career pathways

Revolutionizing education since 2007, MindSpark Learning supports educators to tackle societal challenges, preparing students for the modern workforce. Through innovative, customized programs for teachers and powerful industry connections, we foster critical skills for tomorrow's leaders. Join us in shaping a dynamic workforce and sustainable economy for the future. History Re-engineering education since 2007 In 2007, when the nonprofit Share Fair Nation was launched to provide professional learning experiences for educators. Since then, we’ve equipped educators with the tools to tackle society’s biggest problems, prepare their students for the modern workforce and create thriving school communities. In 2017, we rebranded as mindSpark Learning, but our mission remains the same. Because many of us at MindSpark have spent time teaching, we know that educators are the greatest path forward to enacting sustainable, systemic, and societal change. One elementary school teacher will impact hundreds of students during their career; a middle or high school teacher will impact thousands. As we started to build momentum, we met some amazing educators accomplishing unimaginable feats of innovation. One of those educators was Kellie Lauth, the current CEO of mindSpark Learning, and -- along with her strategic team -- the catalyst for change at STEM Launch, and three other flagship STEM schools in the Adams 12 system in Colorado, not to mention 14 sister-schools across the nation as well. Her problem-based learning model has transformed the way students learn at STEM schools, and has been integral to the way their teachers now engage students. By directly connecting industry with education, and introducing students to real-world authentic problems, students have learned the critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, leadership, communication skills and emotional intelligence necessary to thrive in the modern workforce. So, when it came time to rebrand Share Fair Nation in early 2017, mindSpark Learning was well equipped with the guiding principles -- our drive to re-engineer education, our dedication to workforce development and our commitment to supporting professionals with cutting-edge learning experiences -- that are paramount to the work we do now, and of urgent need in the current work environment. Our Vision While education systems across the globe strive to answer: “How do we prepare young people for the world of 2030 and beyond?” We are asking a different question: “How do we mobilize diverse ecosystems to create sustained economy through education?” Our programs and offerings are designed to answer this question. And, quite frankly, we don’t settle for anything less than excellent customized learning experiences for professionals at all the key pillars of a community: education, industry and government. When we look at the future, we see a world dependent on a dynamic workforce that has yet to emerge, and our ultimate goal is to support communities in developing this workforce. By doing so, we can ensure a sustainable economy while also mobilizing a workforce that is capable of tackling the complex problems we are sure to face when the calendar turns to 2030.

MindSpark Learning assists Maryland educators in securing the Robotics Grant Program, offering up to $20,000 to enhance robotics and STEM education. We provide tailored support, including professional development and grant writing assistance, to align with state standards and improve student outcomes in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Top of Page About the Grant Partner With MindSpark How We Support You Why We Do It Our Partners Maximizing Your Grant Resources Hi, Maryland Educators! Are you ready to transform your school? With significant Robotics and STEM funding available to Maryland schools, MindSpark is your partner in securing and maximizing funding from this grant. Let us help you turn your school’s education goals into a reality. The Robotics Grant Program is an annual grant program to get significant grant funding for your school and your Robotics and STEM programs. Let us help you turn your school’s education goals into a reality. Receive Updates About the Grant The Robotics Grant Program is an annual grant program administered by the Maryland State Department of Education. This grant provides opportunities for students to engage in robotics education programs that will help them develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Thirty-five grants will be awarded with up to $20,000 in funding. LEARN MORE Use of Program Funds: Equipment and Materials: Purchase robotics kits, equipment, software, and supplies. Teacher Training: Fund professional development workshops to enhance robotics instruction. Deadlines: Grant Application: 5:00 PM Friday, September 16 Is My School Eligible? This funding opportunity is open to any Maryland public school, or nonprofit organization partnering with a public school, to support the development and expansion of robotics programming. Let MindSpark Be Your Partner in Grant Success Our non-profit partners with schools and educators to attain and utilize these types of unique funding to align with your state’s standards. Partnering with MindSpark means maximizing your chances of grant approval and ensuring the funds are used effectively to achieve your school's goals. Our proven track record and deep expertise in the field set us apart. We’ve secured over $700,000 in grant funding and never lost a grant we’ve partnered on. Grant Funding in 3 Easy Steps: 1 Discuss your school's needs and grant goals with MindSpark. We'll tailor learning experiences, create K-12 pathways, and align them with state requirements. Optional grant writing support is also available. 2 Collaborate with MindSpark to prepare and submit your grant application, ensuring all requirements are met comprehensively and professionally. 3 Funding received! Meet with MindSpark to strategize and map out initiatives, setting clear timelines to achieve your grant outcomes effectively. Thinking about applying for this grant? Talk with Jacki, our Vice President of Computer Science Education and Initiatives, to let us help you boost your chances of receiving funding from this grant. Email Jacki to Schedule a Call How We Support You Our mission includes supporting educators like you to enhance your chances of securing grant funds through: Expert Grant Writing Providing writing support and recommendations for compelling proposals that win. Deep-Dive Research Identifying grants perfectly aligned with your school's mission. Strategic Partnership We build strong collaborations to enhance your grant application. Why We Do What We Do Our mission is clear: to increase access and opportunity for all students. Our goal is to increase and diversify the talent pipeline through participation in computer science, STEM, and career-connected learning. By partnering with schools, we aim to: Develop a skilled workforce: Cultivate the talent pipeline for Maryland's CS & STEM industries. Enhance educational outcomes: Improve student achievement and support educators through innovative programs. Our Partners MindSpark is a proud member and partner with leading organizations dedicated to expanding access to STEM education. Maximizing Your Grant Securing a grant is just the beginning. Effective implementation is key to realizing its full potential. MindSpark is your partner in transforming grant funds into impactful programs. We’ll work closely with you to ensure grant funds align perfectly with your school’s mission and vision. We understand that every school is unique. Valuable resources can be misallocated or underutilized. Our expertise lies in tailoring strategies to align with your school's specific needs and goals along with Maryland’s K-12 Computer Science Standards. Our Focus is On: Teacher Professional Development Providing comprehensive and effective professional development. Curriculum Enhancement Developing engaging, standards-aligned CS, STEM and Robotics curriculum. Resource Optimization Maximizing the impact of equipment and materials. Data-Driven Results Measuring and improving program effectiveness. Our Proven Track Record Speaks For Itself: We've successfully partnered with 108 out of 179 districts in our home state, and trained over 776 schools impacting more than 3,500 K-12 educators. READ MORE Resources to Support You Girls in STEM Club Playbook Boost CS access and engagement with our 12-week curriculum. Designed for grades 3-8, this playbook includes free lessons, activities, and a proven model for reaching underrepresented students. Applied AI Trail Guide Explore MindSpark's Applied AI (AAI) Trail Guide for insights into the commitments and beliefs shaping our AI practices. As a leader in AI education, the AAI Trail Guide is a testament to our expertise, reflecting our commitment to staying at the forefront of AI education.

Join Northern Colorado educators for a free evening exploring Project Heart—hands-on philanthropy lessons, grants, and real-world impact for your classroom. Classroom to Community Summit Register Northern Colorado educators - this ones for you! Join us for an inspiring evening of connection, learning, and community as we explore Project Heart—a free philanthropy education resource designed to help students discover how they can make a real difference in the world. OtterCares Foundation (yes, the team behind OtterBox!) is investing in Northern Colorado classrooms and in YOU. Through Project Heart, students don’t just learn—they take action. From quick, ready-to-use lessons to deeper service projects, students explore entrepreneurship and philanthropy while serving their communities needs all while naturally tying in to classroom standards and content. Project Heart is: Flexible for your classroom Use it as a grab-and-go lesson Or build it into a full learning experience over time Real Impact: Teachers can apply for grants to turn their ideas into action; helping students use their time, talent, and treasure to make a difference. Funding supports field trips, supplies, fundraising matching, and more. Join us for an evening of connection, inspiration, and practical tools you can bring back to your classroom right away. Dinner’s on us—come connect, learn, and leave inspired. Come see how your students can go from learning… to leading. Dinner and refreshments will be provided. Who Should Attend: Educators Youth Programs School Leaders Outside of School Care Programs Nonprofit Leaders Community Partners The Details: Thursday, April 16th 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM 607 N 15th Ave, Greeley, Colorado, US, 80631 Register

Extraordinary career connected learning connects the economy and education by focusing on the opportunity, belief, skills, and readiness gaps. Career Literacy Extraordinary career connected learning bridges the economy and education by focusing on the opportunity, belief, skills, and readiness gaps. Get More Info Opportu nity Gap Globalization and technological innovation are having a vast impact on the evolving workforce. Often, education struggles to understand labor market needs and the emerging careers available to our students. Students are not aware of the breadth of career opportunities open to them. It’s important to instill good career literacy strategies and resources that lead to the ability for students to flourish. Educators gaining hands-on experience with virtual reality headsets in the classroom. OnDemand Career Connected Learning Foundations Certification This course is designed to help schools build a workforce-literate learning environment that prepares students for success. By the end of this course, you will have the knowledge and skills you need to create a learning environment that prepares students for success in the workforce, and to support them in their journey from education to career. OnDemand Unlimited subscribers may purchase the CCL Certification for an additional low cost. Unleash Career Connected Learning MindSpark’s data-driven methods strengthen educators’ understanding of how to translate educational experiences into economic opportunity. Compelling career connected learning is a blueprint for career literacy for the future of work: Workforce Literacy Harness agile methods that adapt to evolving market needs and lead to meaningful possibilities for every student. Work-Based Learning Continuum Engage students in industry-led, work-based learning experiences across the K-12 spectrum to prepare them for jobs of the future. Occupational Identity Cultivate how students envision their future selves in the workforce at every stage of learning. Career Connected Pathways Foster the development of transportable skills that encourage students to pursue high priority career pathways. Learn More Career Literacy Powered by Couragion Virtual work-based learning experiences like Couragion guide students through a comprehensive process of learning about and interacting with high growth, high demand careers. This introduces them to opportunities they can pursue in the future, while teaching them the skills they need to succeed. Couragion’s career literacy platform is different from other career awareness solutions. It provides exposure to high priority careers, role models who mirror a diverse demographic, an engagement model that encourages self-exploration and self-reflection, and the ability to measure the positive impacts on students’ intention-confidence-motivation over time. Watch Product Demo “I would just suggest you take the risk. It's different than traditional curriculum, but worth it. You'll see huge gains in engagement, teacher satisfaction, student satisfaction -- the joy and fun in the classroom is taken up a notch." - Nick Arvidson, Denver Public Schools Learn More