Where is the SPARK program located?
Our headquarters for the 2009 SPARK program will be located at the Rutgers University Cook Campus Center, 59 Biel Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8508.

What is a typical day at SPARK like?
Instructors are expected to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to class in order to check-in at our main office and prepare for class.  Instructors are not expected to remain for the duration of the day.  Once your class has ended and you've signed out for the day, you are free to go.

Is lunch provided for SPARK staff?
This depends on what schedule you are assigned to.  If you have a 2nd period class (10:15-11:45) and will remain for 3rd period (1:15-2:45), then we will provide lunch.  All other faculty have the option of purchasing lunch at the dining hall.

What do I wear to SPARK?
SPARK provides each staff member with 3 SPARK shirts that must be worn to camp each day.


What is the difference, if any, between the SPARK program and the Rutgers Future Scholars program?
The SPARK program will run two three-week sessions (7/6-7/24 & 7/27-8/14) in which any child can register and participate.  

The Rutgers Future Scholars program introduces first-generation, low-income and academically-talented middle school students from our two Rutgers home communities (New Brunswick & Piscataway) to the promise and opportunities of a college education.   These students are pre-selected and attend our program during the summer. Students will join us for one week, August 17th to 21th.


Do SPARK employees get any sick days/vacation days?
The summer is very short and the children need your assistance every day.  If there is a real emergency, we ask that you please discuss your situation with the office staff.

Is there pre-camp training/orientation that SPARK employees attend?
We will provide online training modules as well as a one-day training session for all faculty and staff.  Orientation will take place on Friday, June 26th.  8:00 am to 4:00 PM. For more information, you can click here.

Are there any other orientation/special days I should be aware of?
Yes, there will be a Parent/Student Orientation day on Saturday, June 27th from 10:00-12:00 in which all faculty/staff will be asked to participate in.   During the orientation there will be an opportunity for a question and answer period between the parents and students.


How large is SPARK?
SPARK varies in size depending on the session.  Some of our smaller groups range from 26-30 students, while some of our larger groups ranging up to 90 participants. 


How many participants are in each class?
Our hope is to keep class sizes to no more than 15 participants with additional help of possibly one teaching assistant per every 7-8 children.


Is there time for staff to socialize?
During the SPARK program the isn't much time for staff to socialize.  The main focus of the program is the safety and care of the children.   At the end of each session, there will be an awards ceremony in which all faculty and staff will have time to un-wind and hang out!