Opening August 11, 2025!
Call/Text: (321) 250-1189 Email: us@sparkgrounds.com

Our Curriculum, Objectives, and FAQ

Montessori-Inspired, Project-Based, and STEAM-Focused Education for the Inquisitive Mind.

Kids in a Montessori classroom with their teacher

At SparkGrounds Academy, we are dedicated to nurturing each child’s natural curiosity and creativity through a Montessori-inspired, project-based, and STEAM-focused approach. Our holistic learning environment is designed to foster independence, critical thinking, leadership, and collaboration. Through personalized instruction and work with peers of various ages, we empower students to explore topics that captivate them while building strong academic foundations in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. This blend of hands-on, inquiry-driven education prepares students not just for academic success, but also for lifelong learning.

Our program is designed for inquisitive minds eager to understand how the world works. Through real-world projects, monthly field trips and guest speakers, students engage in deep, meaningful learning experiences that connect their studies to everyday life.

Our fully-funded Academy will open in Fall 2025 to first through sixth graders. Classrooms for 7th and 8th, and Pre-K and Kindergarten will be introduced in Fall 2026. Classrooms for 9th through 12th will be introduced in Fall 2027.

We believe that true learning happens when students are empowered to explore their own interests, connect ideas across disciplines, and collaborate with others of various ages to deepen their understanding. By choosing topics that spark their curiosity across the objectives below and carrying those themes through math, science, language arts, and the arts, students develop a holistic and meaningful grasp of knowledge. This interdisciplinary approach not only strengthens critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also fosters a lifelong love of learning. Through individual inquiry and collaboration, our students gain the confidence and adaptability needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Lower Elementary Grades 1-3

The lower elementary classroom at SparkGrounds Academy is a dynamic, hands-on learning environment where curiosity, creativity, and independence thrive. Rooted in Montessori principles, our classroom blends self-directed exploration with project-based learning, allowing students to develop a deep understanding of core subjects through real-world applications. Unique to SparkGrounds, our program integrates STEM, art, and interdisciplinary connections, ensuring that students not only master foundational skills but also cultivate a love for innovation and problem-solving. With engaging materials, collaborative projects, and a focus on inquiry, we empower students to become confident, lifelong learners in a nurturing and inspiring space.

Weekly Specials

Science & Space Lab, Language (Spanish), Life/Financial Skills, Technology (Robotics, 3D Printing, Programming), Art, Music, and Physical Education (2x/wk)

Monthly Specials

Off-Campus Field Trip (Full Day) and On-Campus Guest Speaker or Presentation

Annual Events

Science Fair, Festival of Countries, Art Show, Dance, and Robotics Competition.

MATHEMATICS

Using Montessori materials like the golden bead system, number rods, and stamp game, students develop a deep understanding of numbers and operations. They explore addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division through hands-on manipulation, fostering both conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. Measurement, money, time, fractions, charts, graphs, geometry, and early algebra are introduced through real-world applications and discovery-based learning.

SCIENCE

Scientific exploration is encouraged through hands-on experiments, nature studies, and Montessori classification materials like botany and zoology cards. Students engage with earth science through landform models and weather studies, while chemistry and physics come to life with experiments on matter, energy, and forces. The scientific process is emphasized as students make observations, form hypotheses, and analyze results, nurturing their curiosity about the natural world.

LANGUAGE

Using Montessori movable alphabets, sandpaper letters, and phonetic readers, students develop strong reading, writing, and spelling foundations. Listening and speaking skills are cultivated through storytelling, poetry, and group discussions, allowing for rich language development. Reading comprehension is deepened through inquiry-based activities that encourage students to ask questions, make connections, and express their thoughts in both spoken and written form.

HISTORY

Through Montessori timelines, three-part cards, and storytelling, students explore the concept of time and the history of life. They study fundamental human needs by examining how civilizations have met challenges across different eras, connecting history to their own experiences. Engaging hands-on activities, such as artifact exploration and cultural studies, help bring the past to life in an interactive and meaningful way.

GEOGRAPHY

Using puzzle maps, globe work, and landform trays, students develop an understanding of physical and political geography. They explore landforms, flags, and world cultures through hands-on activities that encourage curiosity and global awareness. Functional geography lessons help students grasp concepts like climate, ecosystems, and human-environment interactions, making geography a living and dynamic subject.

Upper Elementary Grades 4-6

The upper elementary classroom at SparkGrounds Academy builds on the strong foundation of the lower grades while fostering greater independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Students engage in more complex, interdisciplinary projects that integrate STEM, humanities, and the arts, allowing them to apply their knowledge in meaningful, real-world contexts. With an emphasis on inquiry-driven learning, hands-on experimentation, and collaborative work, students develop the ability to think analytically and work creatively.

Weekly Specials

Science & Space Lab, Language (Spanish), Life/Financial Skills, Technology (Robotics, 3D Printing, Programming), Art, Music, and Physical Education (2x/wk)

Monthly Specials

Off-Campus Field Trip (Full Day) and On-Campus Guest Speaker or Presentation

Annual Events

Science Fair, Festival of Countries, Art Show, Dance, and Robotics Competition.

MATHEMATICS

Students in the upper elementary program deepen their understanding of mathematics by moving from concrete materials to more abstract problem-solving. Using Montessori materials such as the checkerboard, pegboard, and algebraic bead bars, they explore advanced multiplication, long division, and algebraic thinking. Measurement expands to include volume and 3D geometry, while complex charts and graphs help students analyze real-world data. Geometry is studied in-depth with Montessori geometry cabinet work, leading to an understanding of theorems and formulas, while algebraic reasoning prepares students for higher mathematical concepts.

SCIENCE

Science in the upper elementary classroom is hands-on, experimental, and deeply inquiry-based. Students engage in independent and collaborative experiments using Montessori science materials, lab tools, and real-world applications to understand physics and chemistry concepts. They explore astronomy through planetary models and sky observations, deepen their earth science studies with geological samples and weather-tracking activities, and engage in advanced botany through plant dissections and ecosystem studies. Zoology extends into hands-on animal care, fostering responsibility and scientific observation, while physics investigations explore forces, motion, and energy.

LANGUAGE

Students refine their reading and comprehension skills by engaging with advanced texts across multiple genres, including literature, historical documents, and scientific writings. Public speaking and presentation skills are developed through structured debates, storytelling, and project presentations, enhancing confidence and articulation. Using Montessori grammar boxes and sentence analysis tools, students master complex grammar, spelling, and vocabulary while advancing in composition with structured essays, research projects, and creative writing assignments. The emphasis on written expression ensures students can articulate ideas clearly and persuasively.

HISTORY

Building on their foundational knowledge, students explore the fundamental needs of humankind through in-depth cultural and historical studies. They study cultural prehistory and the evolution of writing using Montessori timelines and artifacts, making connections between past civilizations and modern societies. Natural history is explored through geologic timelines and studies of early life forms, helping students understand the vast history of Earth and its development. By analyzing primary sources and engaging in research projects, students develop a deep appreciation for history’s impact on the present and future.

GEOGRAPHY

Geography studies expand beyond basic map skills into advanced navigation, global awareness, and historical geographical changes. Using Montessori puzzle maps and pin maps, students develop detailed knowledge of North American geography, including political and physical features, landforms, and water forms. They practice global identification and wayfinding through coordinate mapping, scale measurements, and historical trade route analysis. Practical geography lessons explore the relationship between human activity and the environment, emphasizing cultural and ecological interconnectedness in an ever-changing world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! One of the greatest advantages of a Montessori-inspired, project-based learning environment is that students are never locked into a rigid, one-size-fits-all curriculum. At SparkGrounds Academy, we provide a dynamic classroom where students can move at a pace that fits their abilities and interests. Instead of following a strict lesson timeline, children engage with hands-on materials and real-world projects, allowing them to fully grasp concepts before moving on. If a student is ready to advance beyond their grade level in a subject, they can do so seamlessly. If they need more time to master a skill, they are supported without pressure.

Our goal is to nurture independent thinkers who love to learn, and that means removing artificial limits. Teachers guide students toward challenges that match their readiness, helping them develop confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong passion for learning.

Not only do students work together on projects in groups that combine ages, but they can use a mixed-age classroom to expand their friend groups. It is typical for a child to have friends who are both older and younger, and to play appropriately with everyone. For example, a six-year-old might like the conversations they are able to have with an eight-year-old, so they simply become friends, where they might not even meet each other in a single-grade classroom.

At SparkGrounds Academy, we believe that learning shouldn’t be confined to a classroom. Field trips are an essential part of our curriculum because they give students the opportunity to engage with the real world in meaningful ways. Whether it’s visiting a robotics lab, interviewing an artist in their studio, touring a science museum, or exploring nature trails, our field trips help students connect classroom lessons to hands-on experiences.

Beyond academics, these trips teach valuable life skills: navigating new environments, engaging with experts, managing personal belongings, practicing social etiquette, and asking insightful questions. Most importantly, our students come back energized, inspired, and excited to learn even more.

Curiosity is the foundation of deep learning! At SparkGrounds Academy, we actively encourage students to ask questions, discuss ideas, and explore topics with their peers and teachers. In a traditional classroom, children may be expected to sit quietly and wait for a turn, but we believe learning is a conversation, not a lecture.

Our classrooms are structured to support natural discussion, collaboration, and independent inquiry. If a student’s question leads to an interesting topic, we embrace the opportunity to explore it. Our teachers model how to ask thoughtful questions, seek out information, and engage in respectful dialogue. Students learn not just to ask good questions, but also to listen to and build upon each other’s ideas.

We do not assign traditional homework. Instead, we encourage students to engage in meaningful learning experiences outside of school—whether that’s cooking a meal, exploring a hobby, playing outside, or spending time with family.

Montessori education emphasizes deep, hands-on learning during the school day, so there is no need for repetitive busywork at home. However, because students at SparkGrounds take ownership of their learning, many choose to continue projects, research interesting topics, or share discoveries with their families in a natural, self-motivated way.

Rather than measuring success by how much homework is assigned, we help students develop time-management skills by setting goals within flexible timeframes (e.g., daily, weekly, seasonal, semester-long). This prepares them for real-world responsibilities, college, and beyond.

Yes! While our classrooms are more engaging and student-driven than traditional schools, they are no less rigorous. In fact, our students are often ahead in terms of critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-directed learning.

Montessori-inspired education builds deep understanding rather than rote memorization. For example, a student who has mastered hands-on division tools will intuitively understand how long division works, rather than just following steps. This kind of deep learning translates well into traditional settings and higher education.

Additionally, our emphasis on STEM, research skills, and project-based learning gives students a strong foundation for college and careers. They are comfortable working in teams, asking questions, seeking out knowledge, and thinking independently—skills that are highly valued in today’s world.

Because we personalize learning, students don’t “fall behind” in the traditional sense. If a student is finding a concept challenging, our teachers provide individualized support, alternative explanations, and hands-on activities to reinforce learning. We also encourage peer collaboration, where students help each other in a way that fosters both confidence and community.

At SparkGrounds Academy, struggling with something isn’t seen as failure—it’s seen as part of the learning process. Our students develop perseverance, problem-solving skills, and the ability to ask for help when needed.

Every student at SparkGrounds Academy is encouraged to explore their full potential, which means gifted students are not limited by grade levels or pacing restrictions. If a student masters a concept quickly, they move on to more advanced material. If they have a deep interest in a subject, they can take on independent projects, research, or even mentor younger peers.

Our interdisciplinary, hands-on approach keeps learning exciting, even for highly advanced students. Plus, our special SparkGrounds programs—such as robotics, engineering, and makerspace projects—are designed to be challenging all the way through high school, so there’s always room for growth.

Unlike many traditional settings where gifted students may feel isolated, our environment encourages friendships based on shared interests, intellectual curiosity, and creative collaboration.

We believe in fostering a strong sense of community between families, but we take a flexible, stress-free approach. Instead of a formal PTO/PTA, we offer many ways for parents to get involved, from volunteering at events to coordinating field trips to helping with classroom projects.

We also encourage parents to connect naturally—whether that’s chatting during pickup and drop-off, organizing playdates, or simply getting together outside of school. Just as our students are empowered to take ownership of their learning, we trust parents to shape their own role in our school community.

If you have a great idea or want to get involved, we welcome it! Our goal is for parents to feel like they are part of a vibrant, supportive learning environment—not bogged down by unnecessary meetings or obligations.

A brand of TWO SEVENTEEN HOLDINGS LLC. Montessori-Inspired, Project-Based Private Education with a STEM and Art Focus.

GET IN TOUCH

(321) 250-1189 us@sparkgrounds.com 7777 131st Street, Seminole, FL 33776 2025-2026 Academic Calendar

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