Tandem Teachers Complete SPARC Training

Two Tandem Upper School teachers, Tucker Winter (English) and Jason Farr (History), recently completely the two-year Friends Council's Spirited Practice and Renewed Courage (SPARC) program, which is described as "a leadership development program based on principles from Parker Palmer's "Courage to Teach" work.
A group of twenty teachers from Friends schools are selected to take part in this collaborative community, using reflective tools for self-directed professional development. Together, over a two-year cycle, the group explores the art and calling of teaching through critical reflection, dialogue, and feedback. Teachers and administrators are selected to take part in this learning community and use collaborative inquiry and reflective tools for self-directed personal and professional development." Tandem has sent many teachers to SPARC training over the years, and all who have completed the program, including Tucker and Jason, report that it leaves them feeling refreshed and inspired.  Tucker shared that "Jason and I both had a wonderful time.  It was truly one of the best professional development  experiences I have ever had. It is just so rare that teachers get to reflect on the art of teaching for days at a time, especially with other, dedicated teachers who work in Quaker schools.  The conversations were invaluable."