FAQ

What is Spark Learning Center?

Spark Learning Center is a new public charter school opening in Fall 2026, serving grades 6–8. Founded by ArtSpace Charter School, Spark operates as a separate program under the same governing board and shares the ArtSpace commitment to arts integration and academic excellence.

Spark offers a hybrid learning model, combining structured virtual instruction with meaningful in-person learning experiences.

How much is tuition?

There is no tuition. Spark is a free public charter school open to all eligible students.

What is a hybrid program?

Spark’s hybrid model blends live virtual instruction, independent learning time, and in-person sessions. Students engage in teacher-led lessons online, complete guided assignments independently, and participate in on-campus opportunities for small group instruction, collaboration, and support.

What does a typical schedule look like?

Students follow a structured weekly schedule that balances flexibility with consistent teacher support.

Dedicated blocks for live, teacher-led virtual instruction
Independent work and project time with clear expectations
Flexible on-campus options for small group learning, 1:1 support, and collaboration
Wednesdays are asynchronous learning days, with optional campus access for study hall, meetings, or social time
Optional sports and clubs take place on campus Tuesday and Thursday afternoons (3:00–5:00 PM)

Each student’s schedule is personalized in collaboration with families to best support their learning needs. A schedule worksheet for family planning will be posted online and distributed to families in May.

Is Spark mostly virtual or mostly in person?

Spark is a primarily virtual program with structured in-person opportunities. Students regularly engage in live instruction and have access to campus throughout the week for academic support and community-building. Students are not learning in isolation—the program is intentionally designed to ensure consistent interaction with teachers and peers.

Can my student attend fully online?

No. Spark is designed as a blended program, and participation in both virtual and in-person components is expected. In limited situations (such as illness or extended travel), a short-term virtual-only plan may be considered. However, families seeking a fully virtual, year-long option should consider a different program.

Where will Spark be located?

For the 2026–27 school year, Spark will be located at 1298 Tunnel Road in East Asheville, in a dedicated facility currently being renovated to support our program. Construction on Spark’s permanent campus at ArtSpace is expected to begin in Summer 2026, with updates shared as the project progresses.

Who are the school leaders and teachers?

Spark is supported by the experienced leadership team of ArtSpace Charter School, under the direction of Dr. Sarena Fuller. A Program Director will be announced in May 2026, and several current ArtSpace staff, including art specialists and operational team members, will be support Spark. The lead teaching team will also be announced this spring, with educators experienced in middle grades and innovative instruction.

Do I need to provide a laptop or technology?

No. Spark will provide each student with a device to support their learning.

Does Spark offer extracurricular activities?

Yes! Spark students will have access to a variety of extracurricular opportunities in partnership with ArtSpace, including clubs, arts programming, and optional sports and enrichment activities on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons (3:00–5:00 PM).

What curriculum does Spark use?

Spark follows the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. Instruction is delivered through a combination of teacher-developed materials and high-quality, evidence-based resources, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary and project-based learning.

How are students supported academically and socially?

Spark is designed to support both academic growth and strong student connections. Students receive regular support through:

Live instruction and small group learning
On-campus sessions for individualized support
Ongoing check-ins with staff
A personalized Success Plan, developed with families during Orientation Week

How do I enroll?

Families must apply through the enrollment process. If offered a seat, enrollment is completed through SchoolMint by the stated deadline. Click here for more information.

Can my student transfer between ArtSpace and Spark midyear?

Midyear transfers may be considered in extenuating circumstances that impact a student’s ability to fully access their current program. All requests are handled on a case-by-case basis and require:

Administrative review
Family meetings
A Student Success Plan
Available space in the requested program

Is advanced coursework an option?

Yes. Spark partners with NC Virtual Public Schools to provide access to a host of high school level courses- including Math I and Math Ii. Enrollment and support of these courses is facilitated by Spark staff.

If our family is taking an educational trip during the school year, would my child be absent?

Spark has an Approved Educational Leave process. If a trip is approved as educational, up to 5 school days would be excused. Students would have a responsibility to share their learning and would be required to make up any missed work. Due to the flexible nature of the program, some in person sessions could be excused while the student completes other asynchronous assignments during the trip, should a family choose. The Educational Leave Form must be completed in advance of the trip for review and approval from the Program Director. Students are required to be on campus during the state mandated end of grade tests, scheduled within the last 10 days of the school year.