About SPARK Program
Quick Links
The SPARK Program is designed to improve numeracy skills in elementary students (Grades 3–5) through fun, interactive, and hands-on activities that also support social, emotional, and leadership development.
The program consists of 8 two-hour workshops facilitated by trained instructors and volunteers.
Each session, students complete a different project using online tools such as Tinkercad, Scratch, and Canva. Projects include coding games, constructing 3D models, and even creating slime while learning about unit conversion—making math engaging and relevant.
Through these projects, students strengthen numeracy fundamentals in number sense and numeration, geometry, and algebra, with a focus on real-life application. At the same time, they develop important soft skills like collaboration, communication, goal setting, emotional regulation, and self-confidence—building a strong foundation for success in school and beyond.
The SPARK Program is available for free through the following community partners:
The SPARK Program is proudly funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Grow Grant and its funder, the Government of Ontario, Hamilton Community Foundation’s ABACUS LiftOff, and TC Energy Build Strong Grants, and is offered in partnership with McMaster University – Department of Math and Stats!
Workshop Topics
1. Introduction
Introduction to program —Explore mathematical logic and computer science concepts.
2. Coordinates & Constellations
Learn spatial reasoning and coordinate graphing by using Desmos to recreate constellations like Ursa Major.
3. Measurements with Slime
Learn about measurements and conversions and put those skills to the test by creating the strechiest slime.
4. Shoot for The Stars
Design a rocket-asteroid game using Scratch, exploring geometric concepts like angles and the Cartesian plane.
5. Third Dimension
Learn Geometry and how to use the program Tinkercad to construct a 3D model and print it out.
6. Code your Own Traffic Lights
Design and code a simulated traffic light circuit using Arduino, and learn about timed sequences, LED control, and unit conversions for time!
7. Operator Olympics
Explore basic math operators through real-life examples, hands-on activities, and an exciting Scratch game.
8. Math-Scape Room
Apply precious learning in a collaborative escape room challenge.
Upcoming Workshops
Spring Block 2026
Benetto Elementary School
Session A
- Start Date: February 18, 2026
- End Date: April 15, 2026
- Day of the Week: Wednesdays
- Time: 3:40 PM – 5:40 PM
- Exclude: March Break (March 16-20)
- Cost: FREE! Only 20 spots available for each workshop
Session B
- Start Date: February 19, 2026
- End Date: April 16, 2026
- Day of the Week: Thursdays
- Time: 3:40 PM – 5:40 PM
- Exclude: March Break (March 16-20)
- Cost: FREE! Only 20 spots available for each workshop
Hamilton Regional Indian Centre
- Location: 34 Ottawa St N, Hamilton, ON L8H 3Y7
- Start Date: February 17, 2026
- End Date: April 28, 2026
- Day of the Week: Tuesdays
- Time: 5:45 PM – 7:45 PM
- Exclude: March 9-13, 16-20, and 24, 2026 (HRIC Week + March Break)
- Cost: FREE! Only 20 spots available for each workshop
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Who can sign up for the Spark Program?
Students in Grades 3 - 5 can sign up.
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Is there a fee to register?
This program is completely FREE of cost, thanks to our funders and community partners.
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Where do the sessions take place?
The sessions take place in person at the various community organizations listed above.
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I’ve got questions, what do I do?
Contact our SPARK Program Coordinator, Olanrewaju Akinola at 778-636-9076, from Monday - Friday, 9AM-6PM.