Spark Schools is the division’s initiative to help support school campuses that have experienced ongoing challenges related to staff retention and teacher vacancies. 

Teachers and other instructional staff selected to work at a Spark School will receive a net of $30,000 in stipends after taxes over the course of three consecutive years. In addition, Spark Schools receive infrastructure upgrades, customized professional development for staff members, targeted parent and family engagement programming as well as enhanced central administration support throughout the year.

The division’s first Spark School is Douglass Park Elementary School. 

Douglass Park has more than 500 students in grades kindergarten through six. In addition to being a PPS Spark School, Douglass Park is both a Title I school and hosts the RESET program, which is funded through the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

There will be a separate application process for those seeking placement at a Spark School. To access the appropriate form, please click here to apply.

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