Statewide Advisory Council: Help create the SPARK in early childhood education
SPARK Learning Lab exists to improve the lives of Indiana’s children by equipping early childhood education and care providers with the tools, coaching and training they need to succeed.
As a core component of our programming, SPARK recognizes the unique perspectives providers have to offer. That’s why we’ve created the Statewide Advisory Council, a forum to gather feedback from the clients we serve to help make sure we’re meeting your needs.
To support and unify programming, the Regional Advisory Council is transitioning to the Statewide Advisory Council. The Council will be comprised of a diverse group of providers from every corner of the state.
The SPARK Statewide Advisory Council will inform our programming and resources, offering guidance, expertise and support to fulfill our mission of serving Indiana’s early childhood education and care professionals.
We’re searching for passionate providers who value the opportunity to make meaningful changes to our training, coaching and resources. Your perspectives and opinions are vital to SPARK. Take the next step by applying for the Council.
What to know about the SPARK Statewide Advisory Council
The Council will consist of 10 to 15 members. All members will be selected for a two-year term. We recognize that our providers’ time is valuable, and that’s why all members will receive a stipend for their contributions.
The Council will be structured to gain input on SPARK services, resources and supports. Members will have opportunities to share their expertise.
The role of a Council member includes:
- Share insights with SPARK on existing programs and helping to design and launch new programs and initiatives.
- Act as a thought partner to collaborate on developing existing programs and launching new SPARK programs.
- Champion SPARK and spread the word about what SPARK is and what it has to offer to other providers and programs.
- Help to engage providers in sharing feedback with SPARK.
Who should apply to the Council:
- SPARK plans to build a Council that incorporates all-encompassing diversity in regard to members’ thoughts, experiences and backgrounds.
- The Council will reflect the workforce who’s supported by SPARK programming. This includes both teachers and directors who work in the early childhood education and child care industry, among other roles.
- Consideration for Council selection will cover professional experience, education, location, program type and whether the applicant is in good standing with the state and actively serving children.
Council member responsibilities will include the following:
- Attend at least two mandatory annual meetings, with occasional ad hoc meetings (max of three) scheduled as needed. Meetings will be either in-person or virtual, and all members will receive advance notification.
- Provide information, advice and other guidance to SPARK.
- Review materials shared by the SPARK team prior to each meeting.
- Actively participate in SPARK meetings, asking questions, sharing feedback and making suggestions.
- Function as an Ambassador of SPARK Learning Lab.
The Council represents an opportunity for early childhood education and care professionals to take the next step toward improving the lives of Hoosier children and families. Interested in taking the next step? Help us shape the future of how SPARK delivers its services.
