The 2025 SPARK Blueprint
Date: 8/3/2025
Written By: Sadie Goscha
Igniting Passion, Building Knowledge, and Driving Change.
Welcome to our first year of innovation, curiosity, and community action! As we start the 2025 school year, SPARK is excited to share our official blueprint. This outlines what we’ll create, explore, and accomplish together as a club. This year, our mission is clear: to use science, leadership, and advocacy to make a real impact in Johnstown and beyond.
At SPARK, our name means more than just a word; it’s our purpose, and this year we continue to uphold our values:
🧪Science
We’re dedicated to bringing STEM opportunities to underrepresented communities in our schools. Through highlighting influential figures, outreach opportunities, and support, we’ll challenge stereotypes about who belongs in academia. Along with using our scientific skills and applying them to real life.
💖Passion
Our club thrives on the excitement that comes from following big dreams. We are a community through which you have a chance to realize that dream. Whether you’re interested in astrophysics, biotech, computer science, or sustainable design, SPARK offers a supportive network to pursue those interests.
📢Advocacy
Change happens when we speak up about issues. We’ll use our scientific knowledge to create public campaigns, including posters, social media efforts, and school announcements. We’ll also present evidence-based proposals to town and school leaders. Our goal is to influence policies and create projects that benefit everyone.
💡Research
Good science relies on careful observation. We’ll provide targeted support for science fair competitors and hold regular meetups. Members will learn how to create hypotheses, design experiments, analyze data, and communicate results. These skills not only win ribbons; they also strengthen critical thinking for future careers.
📖Knowledge
Real impact comes from sharing what we learn. In addition to tutoring and outreach events, we’ll create an online library of student projects, involvement opportunities, and resources to share our work with the community. By making these resources available, we ensure that every curious mind, regardless of their schedule or background, can access quality STEM involvement and support.
Spotlight Initiatives for 2025
Light Pollution Poster Campaign
Why it matters: Excessive nighttime lighting disrupts ecosystems, affects human sleep cycles, blocks our view of the night sky, and wastes over $3 billion in energy each year across the country.
What we'll do: We will design posters that illustrate the emotional and ecological costs of light pollution. Then, we’ll work with the Johnstown town council and local businesses to display them in public areas.
Beyond awareness: As certified Dark Sky International Advocates, we’ll design prototype light-shield fixtures in CAD, consult with town engineers, and test retrofitting a few street lamps to measure energy savings and light spill reduction.
Library Tutoring Service
Why it matters: Many students need extra help but lack resources or safe places after school.
What we'll do: We will partner with Johnstown and Platteville libraries to offer weekly drop-in math and science tutoring. All drop-in sessions are free, but tips are accepted and staffed by trained club volunteers. Along with optional individual scheduled sessions, we will ensure that all students receive the support they need.
Club benefits: Tutors log hours, build communication and teaching skills, and earn recognition for leadership. Collected funds will cover project materials and initiatives.
Regeneron Science Fair Prep
Why it matters: Participating in science fairs builds research experience and prepares students for college.
What we'll do: We’ll organize biweekly project clinics where members meet to guide each other through selecting topics, designing experiments, and presenting their work. We’ll hold mock judging panels with volunteer teachers.
Community engagement: Even those who do not compete can attend the district fair at UNC to network with other young scientists and participate in workshops on science communication.
Monthly STEM Conversations
Why it matters: Broadening perspectives keeps learning fresh and inclusive.
What we'll do: Each month, a small team will research an underrepresented scientist or a cutting-edge topic. They will present a 10-minute talk followed by an open discussion that encourages respectful debate and critical thinking.
Outcomes: Members will deepen their scientific knowledge and develop soft skills like public speaking and active listening.
Observatory Nights
Why it matters: Hands-on stargazing connects abstract physics to real wonder.
What we'll do: We’ll reserve group sessions at the Berthoud Observatory for private telescope time and guest lectures from local astronomers. We’ll also attend the public star nights to connect with other groups in the stargazing community.
Tools For Success
SPARK Website
Our digital home base will feature event calendars, news posts, project galleries, and resource links. Members can stay updated on current events and our progress on our initiatives throughout the year. Students can reach out for tutoring support and volunteering opportunities. Our website offers great resources for members and non-members alike.
Google Classroom
An organized hub for announcements, sign-ups, project deadlines, and discussion threads. Founders and faculty sponsors will co-manage to ensure smooth communication.
Flyers & Outreach Materials
designed posters and handouts will be distributed at Freshman Orientation and community events. We’ll also explore QR codes for easy access to our website and sign-up forms.
Ready to Spark Something Big?
This is just the beginning. Whether you want to tutor, research, invent, campaign, or simply be part of a passionate STEM community, there’s a place for you here. Bring your curiosity, energy, and spark. Together, we will illuminate our town with ideas that matter and projects that last.
Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!