The World's Most Evidence-Based Physical Education & Physical Activity Programs!

SPARK Professional Development (PD) and Learning Options

While the curriculum is most certainly at the core of the SPARK programs, it’s not the only focus. SPARK is not a “you buy the curriculum and you’re set” program. It’s not just a book or a binder, it’s a program. And SPARK believes that proper training is key to ensuring instructors are equipped with the tools and information needed to get the most from the curriculum and their time with students. This is accomplished through workshops, on-site trainings, online resources, and more.

Over the years, SPARK has tested numerous instructional strategies that are best conveyed during face-to-face training opportunities. The “what to do” (the lesson plans) come alive when the “how to do it” is provided via SPARK training. On-site teacher trainings are the “how to teach it” part of the program. SPARK workshops are FUN, “hands-on,” and designed to meet the needs of the host school, district, or agency. Participants learn by doing and become motivated by SPARK’s dynamic staff of professional presenters.

SPARK Workshop Objectives:

•Participate in SPARK PE activities

•Learn instructional and management strategies to increase MVPA

•Explore ways to differentiate instruction in PE

•Experience SPARK curricular materials

•Be able to use tomorrow what you learn today

Make Professional Development as Easy as 1, 2, 3!

Click on a tab below to learn more.

1

SPARK Training Program

Interested in hosting a SPARK workshop? SPARK workshops are FUN, “hands-on,” and designed to meet the needs of the host school, district, or agency. Participants learn by doing and become motivated by SPARK’s dynamic staff of professional presenters. Half-Day, 1-Day, and 2-Day training options available.

Note: SPARK in-person trainings must be booked 8 weeks in advance of requested workshop date. “First booked, first served” based on availability. Please plan accordingly.

Book your SPARK training by 3/8/23 and receive:

Complete the form below to coordinate your training!

To ensure we provide you with the best experience, SPARK trainings are scheduled through one of our knowledgeable SPARK representatives. We will connect with you to coordinate a training that engages teachers and creates a more active and healthy environment!

Note: SPARK in-person trainings must be booked 8 weeks in advance of requested workshop date. Please plan accordingly.

Subscribe to our monthly email newsletter for information about the 2025 Institutes!

Note: Space is limited to the first 40 registrants for each Institute. Make sure to register early!

Learning, Leadership, and Laughter in San Diego!

Can’t bring SPARK to you? Come to SPARK!

Each summer, SPARK conducts 2-day “Institutes” for SPARK programs in San Diego that are similar to the SPARK Premium Program – yet offer an even richer, in-depth SPARK experience.

Top program presenters and authors lead interactive sessions, creating a professional family. A terrific time is had by all, and attendees leave inspired and motivated to take their programs to the next level.

Location:

The Dana on Mission Bay
1710 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109

Time:

8:00am-3:30pm (Day 1)
8:00am-3:00pm (Day 2)

Select a Program Below to Learn More!

After School Institute

May 20-21

K-2 PE Institute

July 8-9

3-6 PE Institute

July 10-11

Middle School PE Institute

July 15-16

Note: Space is limited to the first 40 registrants for each Institute. Make sure to register early when registration opens!

 

SPARK Institutes Include:

  • ★ Two fantastic days with SPARK’s top presenters
  • ★ Handout packet and supplementary materials
  • ★ Institute T-shirt
  • ★ Raffle prizes – we give away lots of raffle prizes end of Day 1 & Day 2
  • ★ Morning coffee and juice (both days)
  • ★ Lunch (both days)
  • ★ Hosted evening social on Day 1
  • ★ Eligible for one unit of credit
  • ★ Printed SPARK Certification Award (must attend Institute until at least 2:30pm Day 2 to receive certificate)

Space is limited to the first 40 registrants of each Institute!

    • SPARK institutes are not “Train the Trainer” programs. Completing both Institute days earns the title “SPARK Certified Instructor,” which is different than a “SPARK Certified Trainer.” A Trainer is licensed to conduct SPARK workshops for colleagues in their school, district or community. If you are interested in becoming a SPARK Certified Trainer, there is a program for that. Contact SPARK for more information.

  • To ensure the rights and privacy of our attendees, no videotaping is allowed by participants during SPARK Institute sessions.

3

SPARK Online/Virtual Professional Development

Complete training anywhere, anytime with SPARKecademy!

SPARKecademy (Online Training) - Become certified in a SPARK program from the comfort of your home or school!

Purchase credits to complete a full SPARK program or select individual courses. Purchased credits never expire.

   • SPARK program certification = 16 credits per program, e.g. K-2 PE, High School PE, After School, etc.
   • Individual courses = 1 credit per course, e.g. Manipulatives, Basketball Part 1, World Games, etc.

Once you purchase credits, complete SPARKecademy Online Training at SPARKfamily.org.

SPARKecademy Live

Looking for a staff development option that combines online professional development, PLUS live virtual sessions with a SPARK Trainer?

Access 50+ free webinars and tutorials

SPARKecademy also offers access to 50+ free recorded SPARK webinars and tutorials.