SPRK-ing Interest in Computer Science Robotics & Computer Science

AISES has partnering with Micron, Resolution Copper, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, General Motors (GM), Motorola, National Security Agency (NSA), to bring the popular SPRK-ing Interest in Computer Science program to your school!

The AISES SPRK-ing Interest in STEM+CS program is a fun coding program that combines STEM and computer science (STEM+CS) to increase the awareness, interest, and competency in STEM+CS among Indigenous K-12 students. The SPRK program uses cutting edge technology, powered by Sphero BOLT robots, that gets students out of their seats to experience real-world applications with hands-on STEM activities that incorporate their culture. Through the generous support of our funders, AISES will select schools to receive the SPRK-ing Interest program with the following benefits:

• Sphero BOLT PowerPack that includes 15 Sphero BOLT Robots
• 15 Bluetooth capable tablets with the Sphero Edu app installed
• Virtual or on-site (depending on COVID-19 restrictions) 2-hour teacher/staff training, introducing teachers to Sphero Education resources and recommendations for incorporating Sphero and coding into curricula
• Virtual preparation or onsite (depending on COVID-19 restrictions) 2-hour activity for the students 
• AISES’ SPRK-ing Interest Lesson Booklet
• Sphero Educator Guide 
• Educator access to customized Sphero online training at the virtual Sphero Academy,
• Access to 100’s of BOLT activities and curriculum on Sphero Edu.

AISES is a national nonprofit organization focused on substantially increasing the representation of Indigenous peoples of North America and the Pacific Islands in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) studies and careers. As part of this commitment, the SPRK program supports engaging Native Pre-College (K-12) students in discovering, pursuing, and sustaining interest in STEM+CS. Criteria for schools participating in AISES’ SPRK-ing Interest program:  

• K-12 public, private, and tribal schools serving a significant percentage of Native students. Priority will be given to Middle Schools.
• A minimum of 50 students participating in program (exceptions made with smaller entities). 
• Schools (or alternative entities such as afterschool programs) with emerging STEM programs and/or schools seeking to increase internal capacity to deliver STEM+CS curriculum using technology.
• Availability for SPRK-ing program visit virtually or in person by AISES staff Winter/Spring of 2024. 
• Availability of a large room with an open floor (library, oversized classroom, gym) for 2 days for the teachers/staff training and hands-on activities with students for in person training.
• Commitment of a two-hour teacher/staff training by AISES staff. 
• Availability of students for a total of two hours for hands-on intro activity. It can include working one day with students during their normal class period and the following day during normal class periods. Or during an afterschool program setting.
• Ability to complete Teacher and Student Surveys after implementation.

** If you are a student interested in this program, please have an adult at your school or afterschool program fill out this form**

Deadline: February 1, 2024, or until all spots are filled for the 2023-2024 school year. Applications open on a rolling basis and 2024-2025 schools welcome to apply!