FAST and SPARK Programs

Program Overview

The FAST Program is an internationally acclaimed family engagement program that empowers parents and supports the relationship-building necessary for children to thrive. By applying research and evidence-based practices, this program promotes the full potential of every child. The program occurs in school buildings and meets for weekly sessions over an eight-week cycle. FAST typically operates two cycles per school year.

The SPARK (Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids) program provides a kindergarten readiness advantage for families with preschool-age children (four-year-olds).

Once or twice a month, the SPARK family meets with their assigned home visitor, called a parent partner. The parent partner helps the parent engage the child in a lesson that was developed around state standards and is designed to provide a school readiness advantage.
At each visit, a book, an activity card, and supplies are given to the family, so the parent can continue the learning between visits.

SPARK also conducts developmental screenings, provides referrals and linkages to community resources, and offers group-based learning opportunities. The SPARK team (which includes school-based personnel and professionals in early childhood education, mental health, and speech-language development) works to address barriers to school readiness, long before the child begins school.

Cost Info