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Sunday, October 4
 

1:00pm MST

Creating Raving Fans: Elevating Auxiliary and Camp Programs Through Exceptional Experience
LIMITED
Sunday October 4, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Limited Capacity seats available
Inspired by the principles of Raving Fans! A Revolutionary Approach to Customer Service by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles, this interactive workshop explores how independent school auxiliary and camp leaders can transform families, students, and partners into enthusiastic advocates for their programs. In today’s competitive landscape for summer camps, after-school programs, and facility rentals, delivering a good program is no longer enough. The most successful auxiliary programs intentionally design experiences that delight participants, exceed expectations, and create lasting loyalty.

Through guided reflection, small-group discussion, and practical exercises, participants will leave with a framework for identifying the small operational and cultural shifts that can create outsized impact in their programs. Whether you oversee summer camps, enrichment programs, or auxiliary operations, this workshop will help you move beyond satisfied customers and begin building true “raving fans” who return year after year—and bring others with them.

Key takeaways:

- Define a clear service vision that aligns with your school’s mission and sets a standard for exceptional experiences.
- Build a culture of continuous improvement through the “1% better every day” mindset.
- Explore the systems and operations behind sustainable programmatic and customer service excellence.
- Differentiate your programs through customer service, turning ordinary interactions into memorable moments for families and students.
- Map and improve the user experience, from registration and communication to arrival, programming, and follow-up.
- Evaluate the business case behind service excellence, including enrollment growth, retention, pricing power, and financial sustainability.

Optional pre-reading: Raving Fans! A Revolutionary Approach to Customer Service by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles
Speakers
avatar for Kristi Jacobi

Kristi Jacobi

Director of Operations and Auxiliary Programs, St. Mark's School
Educator. Camp Aficionado. Seeker of Joy. Lover of all things Logistical.

20+ years of experience in the summer camp/out-of-school time/enrichment/non-profit world. I find my flow doing whatever I can to support other people having their best experience - from concept to clean-up. My favorite role is creating magical and memorable experiences as part of... Read More →
Sunday October 4, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST
TBA

1:00pm MST

Earn Your SPARC MBA: Master the Business of Auxiliary
LIMITED
Sunday October 4, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Limited Capacity seats available
Take a deep dive into the financial and operational dynamics of running successful Auxiliary and Summer Programs. In this intensive 3-hour session, you’ll gain practical insights and hands-on experience designed to strengthen your business strategy and maximize program profitability.

We’ll explore essential financial principles and guide you through building a comprehensive budget using a SPARC financial template - yours to take back and implement at your school. The session will also examine key business drivers, including Marketing, Risk Mitigation, Program Development, and Operations.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how to manage auxiliary programs as a strategic business unit - positioning your programs for sustainable growth, stronger financial performance, and long-term operational success.

Key Takeaways:
- Auxiliary Financial Fundamentals: Understand the financial foundations required to build and sustain profitable programs.
- Budgeting 101: Learn how to develop, implement, and manage a financial plan using a practical budgeting template.
- Entrepreneurial Best Practices: Apply business-minded strategies to innovate, expand, and strengthen your auxiliary offerings.
- Strategic Business Management: Gain tools to effectively operate, evaluate, and scale auxiliary programs within your school.
Speakers
avatar for Bob Rojee

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC
 Bob Rojee, SPARC Sr. Advisor, is a seasoned leader with more than 30 years of experience in youth and staff development, recreational operations, and auxiliary program management. He has built and directed successful auxiliary programs from the ground up at multiple independent... Read More →
Sunday October 4, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST
TBA

1:00pm MST

Under Construction: Building Your Strategic Auxiliary Roadmap
LIMITED
Sunday October 4, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Limited Capacity seats available
After a brief overview of the core concepts behind strategic planning, participants will shift quickly into hands-on work. Using SPARC’s strategic planning framework as a guide, this workshop walks participants step-by-step through the key components of building a strategic roadmap for their auxiliary programs.

Rather than attempting to complete a full strategic plan in a single session, participants will work through a structured process that helps them begin constructing the essential pieces. Along the way, we will explore how to assess your school’s strengths, clarify strategic priorities, understand your market landscape, shape a portfolio of initiatives, design leadership and staffing structures, identify operational capacity needs, and determine how success will be measured.

By the end of the session, participants will not leave with a finished plan, however, they will have meaningful pieces in place, practical tools in hand, and a clear framework and direction for completing a thoughtful and actionable strategic roadmap.
Speakers
avatar for David Sullivan

David Sullivan

Senior Advisor, SPARC
David began his career in education as an instructor, then Director, at Explo and later was on the faculty at Milton Academy and Northfield Mount Hermon School. For the last 23 of his 36 year career, he led The Brooklin School and Breakwater Learning, the latter being an educational... Read More →
Sunday October 4, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST
TBA

4:00pm MST

Registration
Sunday October 4, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm MST
Sunday October 4, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm MST
TBA

5:00pm MST

Opening Reception
Sunday October 4, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm MST
Sunday October 4, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm MST
TBA

8:00pm MST

Campfire Session
Sunday October 4, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST
Sunday October 4, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST
TBA
 
Monday, October 5
 

7:30am MST

Continental Breakfast
Monday October 5, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am MST
Monday October 5, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am MST
TBA

8:30am MST

Welcome to SPARC
Monday October 5, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am MST
Monday October 5, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am MST
TBA

9:15am MST

Ignite General Session
Monday October 5, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am MST
Monday October 5, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am MST
TBA

10:15am MST

SPARC Connections
Monday October 5, 2026 10:15am - 10:45am MST
Monday October 5, 2026 10:15am - 10:45am MST
TBA

11:00am MST

From Data to Decisions: Systems That Save You 10 Hours a Week
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
Most camp offices rely on spreadsheets, but few have systems that truly support decision-making. This session focuses on how to move from manual tracking to streamlined workflows that reduce workload and improve clarity. Using real examples from a high-volume summer program, you will see how data can be structured to update automatically, surface key insights, and support faster decisions around staffing, enrollment, and communication. Rather than focusing on technical builds, this session outlines a practical framework for organizing your information, identifying inefficiencies, and shifting repetitive tasks into automated processes. You will leave with a clear approach to evaluating your current systems and identifying where changes can save time and improve outcomes. Why Does This Matter? Better systems lead to faster decisions, stronger staffing alignment, and a smoother experience for families.
Speakers
avatar for Mike Evans

Mike Evans

Managing Director of Strategic Programs, St. John's Prep
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

11:00am MST

Little Fires Everywhere
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
Have you ever felt completely prepared for camp, only for little issues to come up, here, there, and everywhere? In this session, we will talk about situations that have come up or can come up and the optimal way to handle these; participants will be encouraged to share their own situations and how they dealt with them.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Shuster

Jason Shuster

Director of Summer Camps, University School of Nashville
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

11:00am MST

Strategic Partnerships: Aligning Data, Marketing, and Auxiliary Programs for Growth
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
Move your Marketing and Auxiliary relationship from transactional to strategic. This session explores the key data points that matter, regardless of your role, and how to align auxiliary insights with broader school data to drive smarter decisions. Learn how to shift from reactive requests to intentional planning that supports both enrollment and program growth.

We’ll break down how to use data to inform marketing efforts, improve communication with MARCOM teams, and build trust through a shared strategy. When you move beyond quick fixes and last-minute asks, you create space for stronger collaboration, clearer messaging, and more impactful results. Walk away with practical ways to streamline your process, strengthen your partnership, and position your auxiliary program as a strategic asset within your school.
Speakers
CF

Courtney Franks

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Academy of the Holy Names
EM

Ellen Madden

Director of Marketing & Enrollment, Academy of the Holy Names
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

11:00am MST

Streamlining Program Management with Google Workspace: A Collaborative Roundtable
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
Turn the tools you already have into powerful, low-cost systems for managing your conferences and programs. This interactive roundtable explores how Google Workspace—especially Google Sheets—can be leveraged to streamline data management, improve organization, and automate workflows, helping you scale your programs more efficiently and accurately. Facilitators will share real-world systems and examples that leverage formulas, data connections, automation tools (such as Apps Script), and communication workflows (including mail merge strategies with Google Education Plus) to reduce manual work and improve accuracy. In addition to Google tools, the conversation may also touch on complementary platforms and emerging approaches such as AI-assisted (“vibe”) coding to extend functionality.

The format will be collaborative and discussion-driven. Presenters will guide the conversation through structured subtopics with tips & tricks from our experience and create space for participants to share their own tools, challenges, and solutions.This session is best suited for participants with a basic familiarity with spreadsheets. Those already highly advanced in Google Workspace automation may find the content more foundational, and we would love to hear your input & perspective through the discussion. Attendees will leave with new ideas, practical strategies, and adaptable frameworks to make their program data management more efficient and accurate.
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

11:00am MST

The Next Generation of Building Auxiliary Programs at Independent Schools
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
This session explores next generation auxiliary programming within a broader strategic question: why now, and what does the market demand of independent schools? Rather than treating these efforts as add-ons, we will explore how to build intentional ecosystems of experiences that align with mission, strengthen brand, and generate revenue. Using case studies from Miss Porter’s School and The Cambridge School of Weston (CSW), presenters will share the evolution of their adult education initiatives, including program development, enrollment trends, and lessons from early experiments such as CSW’s adult summer camp program and Porter’s professional learning offerings. We will surface key questions around market demand, ROI, partnerships, and aligning programs with institutional strengths and brand. In this working session, participants will identify opportunities within their own schools, leveraging existing assets to reach new audiences. Attendees will leave with practical tools for launching, evaluating, scaling, or sunsetting programs - inspired to think expansively about their school’s future.
Speakers
avatar for Leahanne Fenton

Leahanne Fenton

Porter's Center Global Leadership Auxiliary Programs Coordinator, Miss Porter’s School
I've joined our recently formalized Auxiliary Department. My position is responsible for the programs handling bookings and registrations. I'm interested in learning more about what other Aux Departments use and how to grow/staff our department.
MO

Meghan O’Leary

Director of Summer & Auxiliary Program, The Cambridge School of Weston
avatar for Sophie Paris

Sophie Paris

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Miss Porter’s School
I design and run our year round auxiliary programming for girls and women which includes summer programs on our campus at Miss Porter's as well as a virtual ChangeMaker's Institute, virtual and in-person Porter's LEADS workshops and our virtual Global Seminar Series. Programming is... Read More →
avatar for Pamela Torres

Pamela Torres

Director of Strategic Initiatives, The Cambridge School of Weston
Pamela Torres is an experienced educator and strategic leader with over 20 years of dedication to fostering inclusive, innovative, and globally minded learning environments. She currently serves as the Director of Strategic Initiatives at The Cambridge School of Weston (CSW), where... Read More →
avatar for Bob Rojee

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC
 Bob Rojee, SPARC Sr. Advisor, is a seasoned leader with more than 30 years of experience in youth and staff development, recreational operations, and auxiliary program management. He has built and directed successful auxiliary programs from the ground up at multiple independent... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

11:00am MST

The Parent Trap Playbook: Magic in the Middle
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
"Let's get together (yeah yeah yeah)..." Great camps are built behind the scenes and in the moment. In this session, you’ll learn how to design a staff experience that’s intentional, meaningful, and uniquely yours, your camp’s “secret sauce.”

We’ll explore how to blend culture, skills, and values into training that sticks, using unseen learning, purposeful play, and connection-driven strategies. You’ll have to step out of the isolation cabin to build your own “artisan s’more,” a thoughtful mix of belonging and experience that keeps staff coming back!
Speakers
HC

Haley "Cricket" Dickinson

Assistant Director, Latin Camps, Charlotte Latin School
Monday October 5, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

12:15pm MST

Lunch
Monday October 5, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm MST
Monday October 5, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm MST
TBA

1:30pm MST

Centralizing Auxiliary Programs: Leading with Clarity, Structure, and Control
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
Auxiliary programs don’t become fragmented by accident, and they don’t get fixed without intentional leadership. Whether you’re stepping into a new role or have been in the seat for years, this session focuses on how to take control of your program and build systems that actually work. We’ll walk through how to evaluate what you’ve inherited, define what matters, and centralize operations across registration, staffing, finance, communication, and reporting. This session balances high-level leadership decisions with practical execution. For experienced directors, it’s about tightening control, improving alignment, and making confident decisions. For newer leaders, it provides a clear target and the steps to get there. You’ll leave with both a strategic framework and tangible, immediately usable systems to bring consistency, clarity, and accountability to your auxiliary programs.
Speakers
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
TBA

1:30pm MST

From Spreadsheets to Strategy: Turning Data into Systems That Actually Work
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
Many auxiliary program leaders use spreadsheets as digital filing cabinets, places where data goes to rest. But what if your spreadsheet could actually do the work for you? This interactive session blends strategy and practice to help participants think like systems builders and design tools that actually support decision-making. Through a guided challenge, attendees will first tackle a real-world scenario, identifying what data matters and how to structure it. The session then introduces a practical framework for building effective systems in Google Sheets and Excel, followed by real case studies including multi-departmental budgets, payroll tracking, and enrollment dashboards. This session is ideal for leaders who want to move from reactive spreadsheet use to building streamlined systems that drive clarity, efficiency, and strategic insight. In this interactive session, we will move beyond basic data entry to transform spreadsheets into a powerful project management, data visualization, and decision-making tool.
Speakers
JE

Jeremy Ehlers

CFO, University School of Milwaukee
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
TBA

1:30pm MST

Gen Z, Decoded: Real Talk for Program Leaders
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
Gen Z is reshaping our programs, expectations, and day-to-day realities—and many of us are navigating that shift in real time, often without a clear roadmap. This session offers a space to come together as colleagues facing similar challenges and opportunities. Through a guided, candid conversation, participants will share what’s working, what’s not, and the questions we’re still trying to answer. From engagement and communication to boundaries and expectations, we’ll explore the evolving dynamics of working with the next generation in our programs.
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Stokes

Rebecca Stokes

Director of Auxiliary Programs, University School of Nashville
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
TBA

1:30pm MST

Lessons from Bob the Builder: Designing Programs with Purpose, Play, and Sustainability
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
What can a children's construction show teach us about summer camps and after-school programs? More than you might think. In this interactive session, participants will explore how intentional program design creates stronger outcomes for children, greater value for families, and more sustainable auxiliary programs for schools and organizations. Drawing inspiration from Peter Gray's research on the developmental power of play, the Reggio Emilia approach to child-centered learning, and proven strategies for embedding life skills development into camps and enrichment programs, we'll examine how every program can be designed with purpose.
Speakers
avatar for Bob Rojee

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC
 Bob Rojee, SPARC Sr. Advisor, is a seasoned leader with more than 30 years of experience in youth and staff development, recreational operations, and auxiliary program management. He has built and directed successful auxiliary programs from the ground up at multiple independent... Read More →
NH

Nomi Hershman

Regional Relationship Manager, Nexplore
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
TBA

1:30pm MST

The Valley Ho Vibe: Designing Energy, Identity, and Connection at Camp
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
What can the home of the SPARC National Conference teach you about building a stronger camp brand? The Hotel Valley Ho is a living example of how intentional design, distinct identity, and carefully crafted experiences come together to create something people feel. In this session, we’ll use the Valley Ho as a case study to explore how camps can align branding and marketing with the day-to-day camper experience.

We’ll unpack key elements including visual and verbal identity, designing a cohesive vibe, and bringing your brand to life through programming, environment, and interaction. Using a simple framework, we’ll explore how to make your camp unmistakable by intentionally engineering belonging, structuring connection, building meaning through traditions, and focusing on the small details that make a big impact.You will walk away with practical ideas to strengthen your camp brand, elevate your programming, and create a camp experience that is distinctly your own.
Speakers
avatar for Michael Carmody

Michael Carmody

Founder, Make It Campy
Michael Carmody is a Brand Identity Developer for summer camps and auxiliary programs. After earning his Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology in 2011, Michael made the leap into the world of summer camps, serving as the Director of Camp Experience and Community Engagement for Rally... Read More →
avatar for Katie Peterson

Katie Peterson

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Breck School
Katie Peterson is the Director of Auxiliary Programs at Breck School in Golden Valley, Minnesota. In her role, she oversees a wide range of programs and services including Summer Programs, Extended Day, After School Enrichment, Private Music Lessons, the Campus Store, Facility Rentals... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
TBA

1:30pm MST

Your Program Has a Business Model. Does Your Strategy Know It?
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
Most strategic planning starts with a vision and works backward, without a clear picture of the underlying business model. Revenue streams, cost structure, and market position are often treated as assumptions rather than as the foundation on which the plan should be built. In this session, Peter Baron, founder of MoonshotOS, and David Hanson, managing partner of Winthrop & Associates, bring a business model-first approach to strategic planning, one they use with schools across the country, and apply it directly to the world of auxiliary revenue. You'll see how mapping your program's actual business model, not just its budget, changes the questions you ask and the priorities you set. Expect a working conversation grounded in real frameworks and real data, with time built in to think through your own portfolio alongside the group. You'll leave with a sharper set of questions to bring to your own strategic planning and a clearer sense of how your program fits into the school's broader financial picture.
Speakers
DH

David Hanson

Winthrop & Associates
avatar for Peter Baron

Peter Baron

Founder, MoonshotOS
Monday October 5, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm MST
TBA

2:45pm MST

Afternoon Snack
Monday October 5, 2026 2:45pm - 3:15pm MST
Monday October 5, 2026 2:45pm - 3:15pm MST
TBA

3:30pm MST

AI in Action: Transforming Auxiliary Programs from Planning to Performance
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing how auxiliary and enrichment programs operate, but where should leaders begin? This interactive breakout session explores practical, real-world applications of AI that can enhance every stage of program delivery, from designing engaging curriculum and training staff to analyzing enrollment trends and making data-informed decisions.

Through three focused presentations, attendees will learn how organizations are leveraging AI to improve efficiency, strengthen program quality, personalize learning experiences, and gain actionable insights while maintaining responsible data practices. Whether you are just beginning your AI journey or looking to expand your use of emerging technologies, this session will provide tangible examples, proven strategies, and practical tools you can implement immediately.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how AI can support their teams, improve outcomes, and create more impactful experiences for students, families, and staff.
Speakers
CH

Caitlin Hampton

Director of Community Engagement and Alumni Connections, Pine Crest School
avatar for Jana Blackwell

Jana Blackwell

Executive Director of Community Engagement, Pine Crest School
avatar for Bob Rojee

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC
 Bob Rojee, SPARC Sr. Advisor, is a seasoned leader with more than 30 years of experience in youth and staff development, recreational operations, and auxiliary program management. He has built and directed successful auxiliary programs from the ground up at multiple independent... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
TBA

3:30pm MST

Empowering Future Leaders: Building an Effective CIT Program for Middle School Engagement
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
Are you looking for a way to energize your camp, support your staff, and meaningfully engage your middle schoolers? Join us for a dynamic session on how to build and implement a strong Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program that does more than just keep tweens busy, it develops leadership skills, fosters responsibility, and lays the foundation for future job success. In this session, we’ll explore how to effectively train middle school students to become capable, confident, and committed junior leaders by:

- Structuring a CIT Program that aligns with your camp’s culture and goals
- Providing age-appropriate leadership training that sticks
- Creating real, valuable roles for CITs that support your instructors and enrich the camp experience
- Promoting mentorship, teamwork, and a clear path to future employment

Whether you're launching a CIT program for the first time or looking to improve an existing one, this session will provide practical tools, proven approaches, and real-world examples to help you empower your middle schoolers and transform your camp community.
Speakers
avatar for Whitney West

Whitney West

Director of Summer Programs, St. John's Episcopal School
MD

Mallory Davis

Camp St. John's CIT Program Director, St. John's Episcopal School
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
TBA

3:30pm MST

Financial Aid for Auxiliary Programs: Partnerships, Process, and Impact
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
Offering financial assistance within revenue-generating programs can feel challenging—but it is possible to design models that expand access while maintaining program sustainability. In this session, two auxiliary program leaders share how their institutions built financial assistance into their summer camps and enrichment programs. Presenters will walk through the rationale behind allocating aid, how they partner with community-based organizations to reach families, and the operational processes used to distribute and manage funding. The session will also highlight lessons learned, including how these efforts have strengthened community partnerships and broadened program participation. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for creating financial aid structures, identifying community partners, and making the case for access initiatives within auxiliary and summer program operations.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Saylor

Katie Saylor

Director of Extended Learning, The Nueva School
I oversee the summer camp, after school enrichment program, and mid-year Intersession. My team also oversees connecting students with service learning and high school internships.

I really love connecting students to the world around them. There is so much to learn outside of the classroom! I felt this way even as a high schooler myself; I chose the (likely misattributed) Mark Twain maxim, "Don't let school get in the way of your education" as my senior qu... Read More →
TT

Tanner Taylor

Extended Program Director, Children’s Day School
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
TBA

3:30pm MST

Get Found First: The Website Secrets That Fill Enrollment
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
Your program's website isn't just a digital brochure—it's your most powerful enrollment tool. But only if families can actually find it. In this session, we'll reveal the "secret ingredients" that push auxiliary and summer program websites to the top of Google search results—no paid ads required. We'll share real examples, including how one SPARC member built their site strategically and saw program enrollment increase dramatically in year one.

You'll walk away with a practical Website Health Check you can use immediately, plus data and language to build the investment case for your CFO or head of school—because getting budget approved for a website is half the battle. This session will change how you think about your school's most underutilized enrollment asset.
Speakers
JR

Jenn Richey Nicholas

CEO, Pixel Parlor
LS

Lou Stuber

UX Design Director, Pixel Parlor
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
TBA

3:30pm MST

Top 10 Failures
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
We all experience failure… it's inevitable. But what's important is how we respond to those failures. Come to this poolside discussion to share recent professional failures and what you've learned as a result!
Speakers
avatar for Dan O'Neil

Dan O'Neil

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Episcopal High School
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
TBA

3:30pm MST

Unique Program Ideas
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Merianos

Sarah Merianos

Director of Extended Learning, Washington International School
avatar for Sigita Newsom

Sigita Newsom

Director of Community Programs, The John Thomas Dye School
avatar for Charley Pelissier

Charley Pelissier

Director of Auxiliary Services, St. Andrew's School
I am the Director of Auxiliary Services at The St. Andrew's School in Barrington, RI. I run the school's summer programming, after-school programs, facility rentals, the school store, challenge course, safety programs, and some evening programming.
Monday October 5, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MST
TBA

5:00pm MST

Reception
Monday October 5, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm MST
Monday October 5, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm MST
TBA

6:00pm MST

Dinner on Your Own
Monday October 5, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm MST
Monday October 5, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm MST
TBA

8:00pm MST

Campfire Session
Monday October 5, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST
Monday October 5, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST
TBA

8:00pm MST

Karaoke
Monday October 5, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm MST
Monday October 5, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm MST
TBA
 
Tuesday, October 6
 

6:30am MST

Fun Run
Tuesday October 6, 2026 6:30am - 7:30am MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 6:30am - 7:30am MST
TBA

6:30am MST

Yoga
Tuesday October 6, 2026 6:30am - 7:30am MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 6:30am - 7:30am MST
TBA

7:30am MST

Continental Breakfast
Tuesday October 6, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am MST
TBA

8:30am MST

Excellence in Auxiliary Awards
Tuesday October 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am MST
TBA

9:00am MST

Ignite General Session - SPARC Led
Tuesday October 6, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
TBA

10:15am MST

Coffee Break
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:15am - 10:45am MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:15am - 10:45am MST
TBA

10:45am MST

AI Session
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

10:45am MST

Beyond the Gates: Cultivating High-Impact Community Partnerships
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Are you overlooking the "hidden gems" in your own backyard? While many auxiliary programs stick to traditional campus-bound models, the most innovative revenue streams often lie in unique local partnerships. Using a real-world case study of a groundbreaking collaboration between Chadwick School and AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, this session explores how to identify and vet non-traditional partners that align with your school’s mission.

We will pull back the curtain on the "messy" side of innovation: navigating complex local governance, managing risk in unconventional environments, and—most importantly—winning over a skeptical Board of Trustees. Attendees will move beyond the theory of "networking" to learn a tactical framework for building partnerships that provide students with world-class experiences while diversifying the school’s auxiliary portfolio. Learn how to turn your local geography into your greatest programmatic asset.
Speakers
avatar for Kevin Babuder

Kevin Babuder

Director of Auxiliary and Innovative Programs, Chadwick School
Director of Chadwick Summer Programs since 2017, and Director of Auxiliary and Innovative Programs since 2023, Kevin continues to innovate and think outside the box at Chadwick School. His latest venture is a partnership between Chadwick School and AltaSea, a unique public-private... Read More →
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

10:45am MST

Budget Quest: Dollars, Decisions, and Dream Teams
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Budget Quest is back - this time with a staff hiring focus! Dive into an interactive simulation with others where you’ll be handed a budget, a program, and the challenge to spend smart and win big. How can you optimize your hiring needs and spending strategies? Debate the merits of age and experience for various roles as you race to ensure legal compliance and maximum impact. How does the cost of additional training and certifications impact your community and your payroll budget? What specialized programs are worth their staffing and certification costs? When is a “warm body” all that you really need? We’ll share tips and lessons learned (sometimes the hard way!) from decades of summer staff hiring along the way. Will your program come out on top of the bottom line?

This session is a unique opportunity to bring your Business Office partners to explore the “other” side of summer staff hiring!
Speakers
avatar for Kristi Jacobi

Kristi Jacobi

Director of Operations and Auxiliary Programs, St. Mark's School
Educator. Camp Aficionado. Seeker of Joy. Lover of all things Logistical.

20+ years of experience in the summer camp/out-of-school time/enrichment/non-profit world. I find my flow doing whatever I can to support other people having their best experience - from concept to clean-up. My favorite role is creating magical and memorable experiences as part of... Read More →
avatar for Kate Vizen

Kate Vizen

Director of Student Life & Strategic Programs, Inly School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

10:45am MST

From Good to Exceptional: Elevating the Parent Experience Through Intentional Systems
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Auxiliary programs often run efficiently behind the scenes, but what families truly experience is how easy, clear, and supportive those systems feel. This session will highlight how small, intentional systems can transform the parent experience from simply functional to exceptional. Through real examples attendees will learn how to improve communication, reduce confusion, and create a more organized, parent-friendly experience. Walk away with practical, replicable strategies to elevate your program and build lasting trust with families.
Speakers
KP

Keri Packman

Auxiliary Coordinator, Lake Highland Preparatory School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

10:45am MST

Leading auxiliary through the unexpected: educating, advocating, and adapting in a changing school environment
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Building a thriving auxiliary program requires more than operational expertise—it demands leadership, diplomacy, and resilience. This session explores the real-world challenges one auxiliary director faced in establishing credibility at a new school, including the work of educating faculty and staff on what auxiliary actually does and navigating resistance from colleagues. We'll examine strategies for driving meaningful and strategic change and how to audit existing programming through a mission-alignment lens to ensure every offering reflects the school's core values. Add to this an unexpected departure at the Head of School level and a construction project that eliminated 25% of campus overnight, and you have a true stress test for any auxiliary program. Come ready for an honest conversation about leading through ambiguity.
Speakers
avatar for Natalie Forcier

Natalie Forcier

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Louise S McGehee School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

10:45am MST

People, Policies, and Protection: Employment Law Essentials for Auxiliary Leaders
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
Auxiliary leaders regularly make decisions that impact hiring, supervision, performance management, and employee retention, but many have never received formal training in employment law. This practical session will explore the legal considerations that arise throughout the employee lifecycle, from recruiting and interviewing to onboarding, documentation, evaluations, discipline, and separation. You'll also examine policies, handbooks, wage and hour considerations, and common pitfalls that can expose schools to unnecessary risk. Designed specifically for independent school auxiliary programs, this session will provide practical guidance and real-world examples to help you build strong teams, make informed decisions, and confidently navigate challenging personnel situations.
Tuesday October 6, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm MST
TBA

12:00pm MST

Lunch on the Lawn
Tuesday October 6, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm MST
TBA

1:00pm MST

A Strategic Pivot: Maymester Pop Ups
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Building on the recent success of Pop Ups at Pine Crest School, we launched "Maymester Pop Ups"—a month-long series of Pop Ups in May. This initiative served a dual purpose: internally advertising our summer programs and acting as a concrete example of pivoting on success. The school has consistently found Pop Ups, which are single events requiring minimal time commitment, to be highly effective for encouraging faculty and students to explore new activities.
Speakers
avatar for Jana Blackwell

Jana Blackwell

Executive Director of Community Engagement, Pine Crest School
CH

Caitlin Hampton

Director of Community Engagement and Alumni Connections, Pine Crest School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
TBA

1:00pm MST

Camp Hiring- A Full Cycle Journey
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Camp staffing can be one of the biggest headaches for Auxiliary Departments, with yearly turnover and significant needs across the board. This session will take you through the full cycle of camp hiring, from budget projections and compensation to onboarding/orientation, with a look at returning staff outreach and retention, as well as job posting and interviewing for new staff. We will take a look at what has worked well for The Berkeley Carroll School, and how we have shifted our process in the face of new staffing challenges. After a deep dive into our process, we will shift to a roundtable discussion where schools can share what has worked for them and where there have been difficulties.
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
TBA

1:00pm MST

Marketing Systems for One-Person Teams
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Speakers
AB

Aubrey Bursch

Founder & CEO, Easy School Marketing
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
TBA

1:00pm MST

Pardon the Interruption: Auxiliary Edition
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Join the dynamic (and occasionally discordant) duo of Dan O’Neil and Bob Rojee as they return to the SPARC stage for the second edition of this fan-favorite session. Inspired by the rapid-fire pace of sports talk media, Dan and Bob will dive headfirst into the world of Auxiliary Programs, covering everything from summer programs and school stores to facility rentals and auxiliary revenue.

Expect a high-energy atmosphere as they discuss, disagree, and joke their way through our industry's most pressing "Hot Takes." No topic is off-limits, and no consensus is guaranteed. Plus, new for this year: we’re taking it to the next level with a very special remote guest joining us for our own version of "Five Good Minutes." Whether you’re here for the expert insights or the inevitable banter, you won’t want to miss this sequel!
Speakers
avatar for Dan O'Neil

Dan O'Neil

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Episcopal High School
avatar for Bob Rojee

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC
 Bob Rojee, SPARC Sr. Advisor, is a seasoned leader with more than 30 years of experience in youth and staff development, recreational operations, and auxiliary program management. He has built and directed successful auxiliary programs from the ground up at multiple independent... Read More →
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
TBA

1:00pm MST

The Dynamic Duo: Director of Summer & Auxiliary and CFO
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Join the Dynamic Duo and explore the relationship between CFO and Auxiliary Director. Together we will discuss ways to approach new ideas, budgets, and more! Learn to speak the language of finance to secure the resources your programs deserve. Whether you are pitching a high-risk pilot program or refining your auxiliary budget, you will leave with a framework for interpreting data that aligns with your CFO’s expectations and have fun during the process!
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Tripp

Danielle Tripp

Director of Summer & Auxiliary Programs, Oak Hall School
AN

Andrea Newman

CFO, Oak Hall School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
TBA

1:00pm MST

The Fine Print Matters: Legal Essentials for Auxiliary Agreements
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Whether you're contracting with vendors, renting facilities, partnering with outside organizations, or launching new programs, every agreement carries legal and financial implications. This session will provide a practical framework for evaluating contracts and understanding the provisions that matter most, including indemnification, insurance requirements, liability limitations, cancellation terms, payment provisions, and risk allocation. Participants will learn what to look for before signing agreements, when to seek additional legal review, and how thoughtful contract management can protect both their programs and their schools. Leave with a stronger understanding of common contract provisions and greater confidence in navigating agreements that support successful auxiliary operations while minimizing institutional risk.
Tuesday October 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
TBA

2:15pm MST

"Party of One": When After-School and Summer Camp Programs Land on Your Plate
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Ever feel like you’re losing your mind trying to run an auxiliary program all by yourself? Step into our kitchen and discover how to turn the chaos into a well-balanced, crowd-pleasing recipe for success. This session is designed for after-school and summer camp professionals working as a “party of one,” and we’re serving up practical strategies with a fun, food-inspired twist. You’ll learn how to stay organized, reduce stress, and keep your program running smoothly. Expect a full menu of tips, tricks, and time-saving tools you can actually use.
Speakers
avatar for Liz Anglin

Liz Anglin

Auxiliary Program Coordinator, St. Agnes Academy- St. Dominic School
avatar for Ashley Scott

Ashley Scott

Director of Auxiliary Programs, St. George's Independent School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
TBA

2:15pm MST

Boots On The Ground Leadership: Culture. Commitment. Connection.
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
In today’s fast-paced educational environments, leadership cannot live in an office—it must be visible, relational, and responsive. Boots on the Ground Leadership challenges leaders to move beyond theory and into daily, intentional practices that strengthen culture, increase staff commitment, and improve operational flow.

This interactive session is designed for early childhood, auxiliary and school leaders who are ready to lead alongside their teams, not above them. Participants will explore what it means to be a present, people-centered leader while still maintaining high expectations and operational excellence. Through real-life scenarios, reflective moments, and collaborative discussion, attendees will leave with practical strategies to build trust, reduce staff burnout, and create environments where both children and adults thrive.
Speakers
avatar for DeBorah Henry

DeBorah Henry

Director of the Child development Center & Extended Day, Greenhill School
After School Programs
Child Development Centers
Safety and Security & Risk Management
Strategic Staffing
Teaching Certification: Classroom Teacher 1st Grade-8th Grade
Administrative certificate-PK-12th Grade
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
TBA

2:15pm MST

Mapping the Camp Marketing Year
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Speakers
AB

Aubrey Bursch

Founder & CEO, Easy School Marketing
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
TBA

2:15pm MST

Too Cool for Camp: Summer Offerings for 7th-9th Graders
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Have you noticed your camp enrollment trending younger? Designing programs that appeal to older middle school students (Grades 7–9) can be a challenge—but with the right framing and strategic partnerships, you can capture this elusive demographic. In this session, Jim Patterson (Harvard Westlake) and Kat Yorks (Lakeside School) will share how they developed offerings that resonate with older students, including programs like Entrepreneurship Camp, Leadership Lab, and AI Innovators. You’ll learn how to leverage existing programs, faculty expertise, and community connections to expand and “level up” your current offerings. Participants will gain insight into our design process and leave with practical strategies for reimagining existing camps—or identifying untapped strengths within their own teams—to better engage older middle schoolers.
Speakers
avatar for Kat Yorks

Kat Yorks

Director of Summer Programs & College Essay Specialist, Lakeside School
Kat Yorks is Lakeside School’s Director of Summer Programs, developing and overseeing their many summer offerings, from Upper School courses to middle school STEAM and athletics camps. She has also taught Upper School English for nearly twenty years at independent schools, including... Read More →
avatar for Jim Patterson

Jim Patterson

Director of the Kutler Center and Summer Programs, Harvard-Westlake School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
TBA

2:15pm MST

What’s Your Threshold to Change?
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Transforming a summer or auxiliary program into a thriving, revenue-generating, mission-aligned operation does not happen in isolation. It requires a coalition of people, perspectives, and strategic buy-in across an organization. This dynamic panel brings together business partners, CFOs, community engagement leaders, and experienced summer and auxiliary directors to explore not only how to build successful program but also, when it’s time to rethink them.

What is the threshold for change when revenue plateaus or declines and pressure mounts to grow? When do you iterate, and when do you rebuild? Through candid conversation and real-world examples, panelists will share how they’ve navigated these inflection points, aligned stakeholders, and made strategic decisions that led to renewed growth.
Speakers
WO

Weston Outlaw

Chief Financial and Operations Officer, Columbus Academy
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
TBA

2:15pm MST

Your Programs, Their Language: Communicating Auxiliary Value to Senior Leadership
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
When did you last walk out of a conversation with senior leadership feeling like they truly understood what your programs are doing for the school? The work is there and the value is real. What's often missing is the translation - from the operational language auxiliary leaders live in to the strategic language senior leaders listen for. This session closes that gap.

Using a three-lens framework (financial sustainability, mission alignment, and leadership quality) we will examine how senior leaders actually evaluate auxiliary programs and assess how clearly you are currently communicating across all three. Through a structured self-assessment and peer exchange, attendees will identify their specific communication gaps and leave with a practical toolkit for translating their work into strategic value: whether they are a department of one or lead a team of ten. Let's ensure the programs you've built get the recognition, resources, and advocacy they've already earned!
Speakers
avatar for Euan Oswald

Euan Oswald

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Open window School
Euan Oswald is the Director of Auxiliary Programs at Open Window School in Bellevue, WA, where he has led the school’s after school enrichment, extended day, summer, athletics, and transportation programs for over 11 years. Euan facilitates auxiliary program roundtables for the... Read More →
Tuesday October 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
TBA

3:15pm MST

Ice cream break with games
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Leading from the Middle: Influence, Legacy, and the Future of Auxiliary Leadership
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
You've claimed your seat at the table. Now what do you do with it?

This session picks up where advanced leadership conversations leave off–moving beyond the mechanics of institutional influence and into the harder, quieter work of sustaining it. Designed for auxiliary professionals who have already begun operating at a strategic level, this workshop confronts challenges such as maintaining credibility through leadership transitions, advocating for your division when the institutional winds shift, and deciding what kind of leader you actually want to become.

Together we will wrestle with the ambiguities of senior leadership: when to push and when to hold, how to protect your team's culture while absorbing institutional change, and how to build a professional legacy that outlasts any single program or position.Because the most sophisticated leadership skill isn't getting to the executive level. It's knowing what to do once you get there. During this session we will explore how to:
- Sustain strategic influence through administrative turnover and shifting institutional priorities
- Lead auxiliary divisions through organizational change without losing program integrity or team trust
- Translate auxiliary program outcomes into language that resonates with boards, heads of school, and accreditation bodies
- Navigate the tension between division loyalty and institution-wide responsibility
- Define and communicate your own leadership identity beyond your program's metrics
- Build a professional legacy through intentional mentorship, knowledge transfer, and field contribution
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

After School Programs - Balancing Free Play and Structure
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Free play gives children a chance to work on their decision making, self regulation, friendships, personal interests and more! So much of a child's life is structured that they can easily miss out on the benefits of what it's like to manage your own time. Many kids know exactly what they want to do when school is out and many others are happy to do what their friends want to do. Some kids even feel bored when they don't have things scheduled for them AND THAT IS GREAT! All children are infinitely creative and as adults, we need to know when to back off and let their brains do some of this critical work. As teachers and program directors, there is a temptation to fill all of our kids' days with fun activities, check ins, social emotional programming and more, but in this case, less can be more! There is certainly a place for programming after school but it's not the only thing we should be doing for our kids. They need freedom, choice, boredom, risk, adventure, friendships and more that they can get naturally just by being in proximity with other kids.
Speakers
avatar for Dan Gilson

Dan Gilson

Director of Extended Day, Durham Academy
Dan has been working at Durham Academy since 2004, Directing the Extended Day Program since 2007 and was the Director of Summer Programs for 9 years.  He currently serves as a member of the schools Leadership Team and has also been a Teaching Assistant in 4th grade, a member of the... Read More →
avatar for Zakia Vanhoose

Zakia Vanhoose

Assistant Director of Extended Day, Durham Academy
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Benefits of Camp Partnerships Over Competition
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Learn how Summer at Brookwood partnered with neighboring camps to boost enrollment, revenue and exposure.
Speakers
avatar for Trisha Gordon

Trisha Gordon

Director of Auxilary Programs, Brookwood School
avatar for Sophie Rothman

Sophie Rothman

Assistant Director of Auxiliary Programs, Brookwood School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Cost Per Camper: How Your Schedule Really Drives Your Costs
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Understanding your true cost per camper is one of the most powerful—and most overlooked—drivers of a successful auxiliary program. In this session, we’ll unpack what “cost per camper” really means, why it matters, and how it directly impacts pricing, staffing, and long-term sustainability.

Using real-world examples, we’ll demonstrate how staffing patterns, program design, and camper movement throughout the day influence your true costs in ways that traditional budgeting often misses. Participants will gain insight into how to begin building a more accurate financial picture of their programs, even in complex, multi-offering environments.
This session will provide practical frameworks and starting points to help directors move from estimation to informed decision-making—ultimately strengthening both program quality and financial performance.
Speakers
avatar for Jake Andrus

Jake Andrus

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Brooks School

avatar for Marcie Glad

Marcie Glad

Owner/CEO, Help my Spreadsheets
We help your spreadsheets become faster, better, and more fun! Simplify schedules, automate reporting, and feel more organized! We also provide tailored training for your unique spreadsheet needs.
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Designing for Connection: Building Collaboration, Communication, and Community in Gen Alpha
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
In an increasingly isolated and screen-driven world, Gen Alpha needs intentional opportunities to connect, collaborate, and communicate in meaningful ways.

This session brings educators and camp leaders together to explore how we can design programs that foster real connection using students’ existing interests as a bridge to deeper engagement and skill-building. We’ll break down practical strategies that can be applied across classrooms, camps, and enrichment spaces. Together, we’ll examine how to move students from passive consumption to active participation, and how to structure experiences that build collaboration, communication, and confidence.
Speakers
AT

Alyssa Thomas

Head Of Curriculum Development, Creator Camp
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Does Size Matter? Measuring Success in Auxiliary Programs
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Auxiliary programs come in all shapes and sizes. We have been (and will continue to be) inspired by big programs at big schools/camps generating big revenue numbers. What about the smaller programs at smaller schools/camps with smaller revenue numbers? Or those that find themselves squarely in the center of the pack? Is bigger always better? Do size and scale dictate what is considered a success?

In this session, we’ll examine how we determine what “success” means. Besides revenue, what are other measures of success? This is an opportunity for auxiliary leaders to think critically about their work and take pride in their efforts, no matter the size of their department, facility, or portfolio. Participants are encouraged to come with an example of a win to share–a win of any size or scope. As a next step, we’ll discuss how size does not have to hamper our entrepreneurial spirit and ability to grow.
Speakers
avatar for Jenny Alario

Jenny Alario

Auxiliary Programs Director, Gordon School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Don't Forget About Me!
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
In the competitive summer camp market how do you make your camp memorable? How do you keep families coming back year after year? How do you keep families engaged all year round?

Join me for a fun and interactive presentation on how to keep your campers (and their families) returning to you for years to come!
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Quinn

Lindsay Quinn

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Roland Park Country School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Don't put Auxiliary in the corner! Making enrichment programming part of school culture
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Come learn and discuss how to engrain your auxiliary programming into the fiber of your school's culture. Auxiliary programming can absolutely serve as a core component of student education beyond the traditional classroom, but only if you show the value to leadership and build community opportunities around it. We will discuss how to utilize programming, culminating events, and regular enrichment classes to contribute to the culture of your school in a positive way.
Speakers
NR

Nathan Renstrom

Director of Auxiliary Services, Jacksonville Country Day School
BT

Brian Turk

Associate Director of Auxiliary Services, Jacksonville Country Day School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Lead the Way & Join the Party: Camp Assistant Program Launch & Summer Bash Open House
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Join us for a fun and informative session where we’ll introduce our new Camp Assistant program. Our CAs are not just volunteers; they’re role models, leaders, and a vital part of creating a fun, safe, and memorable experience for every camper. We’ll cover everything from the application process, teacher recommendations, the interview, and the leadership skills and training we provided. We’ll also give you a sneak peek at our first annual Summer Bash Open House, an exciting, free event where families got to meet staff, get familiar with campus, and experience carnival-themed games and snacks. As part of their training, CAs helped run the event, welcoming families and representing our program with confidence. By the end of the session, you’ll have a clear picture of how our CA program builds leadership, responsibility, and real-world experience while helping create a summer our campers will never forget.
Speakers
CD

Cherie Dioguardi

Associate Director of Extracurricular Programs, All Saints' Episcopal School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Lessons Learned from Sleep Away Camp
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
What makes sleep-away camp so memorable, and how can independent schools bring that same sense of belonging, joy, and growth into their day camp programs? In this session, we’ll explore some core elements that make camp experiences truly meaningful and translate them into practical strategies for day-camp camps in the independent school setting.

Together, we’ll dig into how to build strong relationships with campers, create intentional traditions, design “wow” moments that kids remember, and foster independence, confidence, and creativity for both campers and staff. We’ll also look at how staff energy, camp culture, and transition unscheduled time shape the overall experience.This session will leave participants with concrete tools and fresh ideas to elevate engagement, deepen connections, and make camp feel purposeful and aligned with our schools’ own missions.
Speakers
CB

Colleen Borst

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Charles Wright Academy
CM

Christopher Malicky

Associate Director of Auxiliary Programs, University School of Milwaukee
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Maximizing Impact Without Burnout: Rethinking Teacher-Led vs. Vendor-Led Programming
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
How do you grow your programs without overloading your staff? This session shares a practical approach to balancing teacher-led and vendor-led offerings. Using a two-year example, we’ll show how shifting vendors into summer and focusing teachers on school-year enrichment reduced burnout, avoided repeated classes, and improved enrollment.

You’ll gain insight into what makes a school a strong partner, common communication breakdowns, and key questions to ask vendors before partnering. We’ll also explore why some teachers thrive in enrichment, how vendors can complement faculty strengths, and best practices that support smooth operations and student safety. Walk away with clear strategies for using the right people at the right time to build a strong, sustainable program.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Fisher

Jessica Fisher

Associate Director of Auxiliary Programs, St. Michael's Prep
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Operational Excellence in Facility Rentals: Coordinating Calendars, Staff, and School Systems for Success
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Successful facility rental programs require more than contracts and payments. They depend on strong internal coordination and operational alignment across the school community. This session will explore best practices for managing the day-to-day operations of school facility rentals, including creating centralized calendars, integrating rental scheduling with student information systems, establishing internal approval workflows, and improving communication between departments. Attendees will learn how to streamline coordination among athletics, facilities, security, custodial teams, and school leadership to reduce conflicts and deliver a seamless rental experience for both staff and external clients. The session will also cover operational processes that help schools stay organized, minimize disruptions to campus activities, and build confidence internally as rental programs grow.
Speakers
BM

Bruce Miller

Director of Auxiliary Services, San Domenico
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Put Down the Phone, Pick Up a Knife: One School's Answer to the Anxious Generation
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Every enrichment director in this room has watched it happen — kids who can't sit with boredom, can't tolerate discomfort, can't put the phone down. The research is finally catching up to what we've known for years. At Park School, we stopped waiting for a solution and built one: we brought in Fire & Knives, a structured outdoor skills program centered on fire safety, knife handling, and real competence-building. No screens. No passive learning. Just kids doing hard things and discovering they're capable of them.

This SPARCburst is part cultural diagnosis, part field report — what we saw in our students, what parents said, and what we'd tell any enrichment director thinking about doing the same.
Speakers
JB

Jordan Burnham-Bialikj

Director of Enrichment, Park School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Scaling Training and Support for Campers with Diverse Needs
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Every auxiliary director wants their program to be a place where all children can thrive, yet providing meaningful support often remains a lofty goal rather than a logistical reality. The biggest hurdle is properly training seasonal staff on complex neurodiversity and disability support in just a day or two before camp begins.

In this session, Drew Mackay (Camp Director at Beauvoir) shares his program’s journey of partnering with Litix to move beyond standard staff training. You will learn how Beauvoir and Litix worked together to implement online and in-person training to ensure every staff member is confident and equipped with the tools and resources to support campers with diverse needs. We will also explore how to bridge the gap between enrollment and the first day of camp by optimizing registration processes and family communication. By gathering more robust, specific information during the intake phase, camps can better prepare their teams and ensure they have the necessary context to support each camper, the moment they arrive.
Speakers
IT

Isabelle Tambascio

Partner Success Specialist - Litix Academy, Litix
JB

Jackie Butler

Product Manager, Litix
avatar for Drew Mackay

Drew Mackay

Director of Auxiliary and Summer Programs, Director of Auxiliary and Summer Programs
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

School Safety in a Complex World: A Coordinated Approach for Campus and Beyond
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Schools today face risks across multiple fronts — and those risks don't stop at the campus gate. From physical threats on school grounds to cybercrime, white-collar fraud, and the challenges students and staff encounter when they travel or move through the broader community, the threat environment is wide and constantly evolving.

This session provides a clear, practical overview of how these risks develop, how small gaps in awareness or preparation can compound into serious incidents, and how early intervention changes outcomes. Participants will leave with a stronger foundation in situational awareness — learning to read environments, assess the behavior of individuals they encounter, and apply sound digital and cyber safety practices, and travel safety as part of a unified, coordinated approach to school safety. The goal is straightforward: reduce exposure, improve response, and deliver training that protects both people and the institutions responsible for them — on campus and off.
Speakers
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Stop Prompting, Start Doing: Practical AI for Program Directors
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
We will cover what it actually means to give your AI context so it understands your role, your school, and your work without you having to re-explain it every time. We will move beyond basic chat to using real tools: building a webpage, creating marketing collateral, drafting communications, and more. And we will talk about how to think about AI agents, what they are, what tools they can access, and how to point them at work that actually matters to you. Bring your laptop. We will work in Claude and ChatGPT.
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

The Advantages of Opening AfterSchool (and Summer Camp) to All
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Have you ever thought about opening up your afterschool and/or summer programming to students from outside of your school? In this session, we will share an example of how one school does this and all of the reasons why it enhances your program and school community.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Pichette

Amy Pichette

Director of Auxiliary, Breakwater School
KL

Kerry Leavenworth

Summer Camp Director, Breakwater Learning
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

The Art of Play
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
How can strategic game play help students build the skills they need for success in school and life? In this engaging, hands-on workshop, educators will explore how games can be powerful tools for developing critical 21st century skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, resilience, metacognition, and executive functioning. Through Nexplore’s signature Games Methodology (Play. Learn. Apply.), participants will experience how mind and strategy games teach students how to think, not what to think.

Attendees will learn the educational rationale behind using enrichment to support the whole child, participate in interactive game-based activities using tools such as Rush Hour and Quoridor, and discover practical strategies to transfer learning from game play into academic content and real-life situations. Participants will leave with a ready-to-use toolbox of activities and techniques to strengthen student engagement, social-emotional growth, and future-ready thinking skills in the classroom.
Speakers
NH

Nomi Hershman

Regional Relationship Manager, Nexplore
avatar for Staci Beese

Staci Beese

Director of Sales & Marketing, Nexplore
Nexplore is a national enrichment service provider with a mission to foster the joy of learning through a wide range of over 125+ STEAM, Life Skills, and Fitness solutions.

Currently, Nexplore proudly offers programs at over 1000 sites across the US, successfully serving thousan... Read More →
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

The Captain’s Log: Turning Daily Chaos into Actionable Program Insight
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Auxiliary leaders juggle a constant flow of moving parts—staffing, student behavior, enrichment quality, family communication, and facility logistics. But too often, critical details get lost in the day-to-day rush, making it hard to identify patterns or prevent recurring issues. In this session, we introduce The Captain’s Log: a simple but powerful system for capturing daily program insights in a consistent, team-driven way. Learn how to document what actually matters—from student behavior trends and staff performance to program popularity and scheduling conflicts—without creating extra administrative burden. Participants will leave with a practical framework for building a shared logging system that improves communication, strengthens decision-making, and turns scattered observations into clear, actionable data across their Auxiliary programs.
Speakers
AJ

Amanda Jerido-Katz

After School Manager, The Berkeley Carroll School
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Student Transportation: What Independent School Auxiliary Leaders Need to Know
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Transportation is one of the most underestimated variables in auxiliary program success — a hidden cost center that can quietly erode margins, create serious liability exposure, and shape whether families enroll in your summer or afterschool program at all. In this candid panel conversation, Heather Murphy joins a strategist from the ground transportation and charter logistics sector to pull back the curtain on what's actually happening when independent schools try to move students safely, efficiently, and profitably. Together, they'll explore what works, where schools consistently overpay or under-plan, and the operational and risk realities most auxiliary directors never see until it's too late. This isn't a theoretical overview — it's an honest reckoning with a challenge thattouches enrollment, revenue, risk management, and the family experience. You'll leave with a clearer framework for evaluating your current approach and knowing exactly where to look for improvement.
Speakers
LV

Leah von Eichel-Streiber

Safety and Trust, Product and Marketplace
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

3:45pm MST

Work Smarter: Making Your Registration System Work for You
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
Registration systems are often viewed simply as tools for collecting enrollments, but when used strategically, they can become powerful partners in managing and growing auxiliary and summer programs. For professionals new to auxiliary programs, understanding the full capabilities of a registration platform can significantly improve efficiency and program operations.

In this collaborative session, auxiliary program leadership and CampBrain will share practical examples of how a strong partnership between program administrators and a registration provider can streamline workflows, improve communication, and support data-driven decision-making. Participants will explore real-world uses of CampBrain features such as custom reporting and data management that help reduce administrative burden and improve operational visibility. The session will also acknowledge the realities of working with registration platforms, including common challenges, while highlighting the value of responsive customer support and collaborative problem-solving. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas to better leverage their registration systems and strengthen their partnership with their software provider.
Speakers
JD

Jenny Doherty

Auxiliary Office Manager/Registrar, Summer at St. John's
avatar for Rachel Crosscombe

Rachel Crosscombe

Client Success Manager, CampBrain
Tuesday October 6, 2026 3:45pm - 5:00pm MST
TBA

5:00pm MST

Reception
Tuesday October 6, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm MST
TBA

6:00pm MST

Dinner on Your Own
Tuesday October 6, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm MST
TBA

8:00pm MST

Campfire Session
Tuesday October 6, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST
TBA

8:00pm MST

Game Night
Tuesday October 6, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm MST
Tuesday October 6, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm MST
TBA
 
Wednesday, October 7
 

5:30am MST

Camelback Hike
Wednesday October 7, 2026 5:30am - 8:00am MST
Wednesday October 7, 2026 5:30am - 8:00am MST
TBA

7:45am MST

Continental Breakfast
Wednesday October 7, 2026 7:45am - 8:45am MST
Wednesday October 7, 2026 7:45am - 8:45am MST
TBA

9:00am MST

Beyond the Logo: Building a Lifestyle Brand for Your School
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Does your school have a "store" or a brand? Creating merchandise that students actually want to wear off-campus is a unique challenge. This session provides a practical roadmap for transforming basic spirit wear into a professional retail operation. Using the Campbell Hall Viking Store as a case study, we will share how to manage a diverse vendor network—from local printers to specialty accessory brands—to create a curated product mix. We’ll discuss the "how-to" of apparel design, balancing in-person and online sales, and the logistics of inventory management. Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to refresh an existing shop, you’ll leave with a framework for building a brand that generates both community pride and sustainable auxiliary revenue.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Turner

Jennifer Turner

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Campbell Hall
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
TBA

9:00am MST

Camp Is a Business: Building Buy-In, Driving Growth and Increasing Revenue
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Camp is more than a program, it is a business. Like any successful business, it must balance experience, satisfaction and financial sustainability. This session explores how to approach camp through an entrepreneurial lens while maintaining the true heart of your program.Attendees will learn how to build a program that serves both campers and their families while also increasing engagement, participation and net revenue. A key focus will be on creating faculty and staff buy-in by transforming camp from an “extra duty” into a shared investment across campus.

This session will offer practical strategies for strengthening program design, increasing participation and aligning teams across your campus to support long-term growth. Attendees will walk away with actionable ideas for building a camp culture that is both highly valued and financially successful.
Speakers
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
TBA

9:00am MST

From Arts Camp to Strategic Growth Engine: How Data, Market Analysis, and AI Transformed Derby Summer Programs
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
What happens when a beloved but limited summer arts program is reimagined through the lens of data, market positioning, and emerging technology? This session tells the story of how Derby Academy transformed “Derby Summer Arts” into a comprehensive, revenue-generating, and mission-aligned Derby Summer Programs model. By combining internal data analysis, peer market research, and practical applications of AI, we redesigned programming, pricing, staffing, and marketing to better meet family demand and institutional goals.

Attendees will walk away with a replicable framework for evolving their own auxiliary programs using accessible tools and strategic thinking—not just intuition.
Speakers
avatar for TJ Coogan

TJ Coogan

Director of Auxiliary & Summer Programs, Derby Academy
After 25 years as an independent and public school teacher, as well as 10+ years as a camp director with the YMCA, I transitioned in 2024 to a full time position working with camps and before and after school programs at the Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield, MA. From there I moved... Read More →
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
TBA

9:00am MST

Metrics that Matter for your Auxiliary Programs
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. (Peter Drucker) This session will explore the operational environment of schools and how auxiliary programs can effectively align their program offerings with the school's core mission and priorities. We will cover standard metrics used to measure and gauge the success of auxiliary programs, alongside specific considerations for measuring individual schools' programs to ensure both mission alignment and desired performance are achieved.

We will identify some common drivers for both auxiliary programs and your school and discuss how to determine the most relevant metrics when defining Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), evaluating program performance, and making strategic decisions related to auxiliary programming’s offerings, pricing, staffing, discounts, marketing, and more.
Speakers
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
TBA

9:00am MST

Stuck or Scaling? Reimagining the Veteran Auxiliary Role
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
You’ve built programs, scaled revenue, and navigated the complexities of auxiliary leadership. Now what? This session is designed for seasoned auxiliary professionals (10+ years) ready to move beyond operations and into deeper strategic impact. Together, we’ll explore what the next chapter looks like—for you and for the field. We’ll dig into questions around professional growth without clear advancement paths, redefining the value of auxiliary programs within schools, and sustaining innovation and energy over time.

This session will function as a facilitated think tank, not a presentation—bringing experienced leaders together to share candidly, challenge assumptions, and explore new ideas. Through guided discussion and reflection, participants will surface common challenges, exchange insights, and co-create forward-thinking approaches. You’ll leave with fresh perspective, actionable ideas, and a renewed sense of purpose in your work.
Speakers
avatar for Kate Vizen

Kate Vizen

Director of Student Life & Strategic Programs, Inly School
Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MST
TBA

10:00am MST

SPARC Connections
Wednesday October 7, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am MST
Wednesday October 7, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am MST
TBA

10:30am MST

Ignite General Session - PechaKucha
Wednesday October 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Wednesday October 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am MST
TBA

11:30am MST

Closing
Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm MST
Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm MST
TBA
 
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