Misguided Priorities

The lack of competency, support and accountability is evident at every level. Decisions are made from the top without considering the realities on the ground, and when things inevitably go wrong, there's a culture of blame-shifting rather than positive problem-solving and collaboration.

It's clear that profit is prioritized over people – both staff and students. The focus is on aggressive expansion rather than improving the quality of education or supporting existing schools. Resources are scarce, and teachers are expected to work miracles with very little support. Schools lack basic materials, and facilities are often in disrepair, creating a challenging and demotivating environment for both staff and learners.

Staff are overworked and underappreciated, with unrealistic expectations placed on teachers without the tools or time needed to succeed. Continuous professional development is provided but often does not relate to the challenges teachers face on the ground. Although some training topics are insightful, they are not practical. Despite feedback being povided about this, the same trainings and unrealistic expectations get rinsed and repeated each year, just under a new name.

Despite the school's marketing, the day-to-day reality is far from innovative or inspiring.

Overall, SPARK talks a big game, but the internal culture is toxic, unsupportive, and driven by money rather than meaningful educational outcomes.

Staff members are leaving at a rapid rate and schools are understaffed. This places even more pressure on those staying behind, trying to cover other classes and grades in between staying on top of personal expectations. When concerns are raised, staff get told that this is what they signed up for. Positivity, loyalty and reciprocal respect in the work place cannot be forced. Teaching is a selfless job, but no one willingly signs up to be overworked, underappreciated, and constantly gaslighted. What should be a fulfilling, rewarding career has become a daily struggle against burnout and frustration. There’s no space for growth or collaboration—just survival. It’s heartbreaking to see a system that claims to care about students but continually neglects the well-being of its educators and other school based staff. I would not recommend working here, or sending your child here, unless major changes are made.