New SparkHub at UNCG: A Bridge to Future Learning and Careers

In a transformative step towards enriching educational landscapes, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), in collaboration with SparkNC and Guilford County Schools (GCS), has inaugurated North Carolina’s first SparkHub. This innovative learning environment serves as a unique connector between K-12 education, higher education, and the global workforce, paving the way for high school students to dive deep into the realms of technology and career-oriented education.

Bridging Educational Divides

The SparkHub embodies a holistic approach to learning that addresses a crucial gap between traditional education systems. By anchoring itself on the UNCG campus, it creates both a physical and intellectual bridge across different educational stages. This initiative ensures that GCS students are not just passive learners but are actively engaged in hands-on learning experiences tailored in collaboration with giants in the tech industry, such as Apple, IBM, Epic Games, Lenovo, TEKsystems, and Cisco.

A Visionary Partnership

Lynn Moody, President of SparkNC, articulates the essence of this partnership: “This partnership is about more than just teaching code — it’s about creating opportunity, confidence, and belonging.” The SparkHub seeks to dismantle barriers between high school and higher education, showcasing an abundance of potential pathways for students eager to explore their futures.

UNCG Chancellor Franklin D. Gilliam, Jr. complements this vision by stating, “As a public research university, UNCG is committed to building pathways that expand access and drive economic mobility.” This collaboration illustrates how partnerships between higher education institutions, K-12 schools, and industry leaders can yield significant educational opportunities.

High-Tech Curriculum for a Digital Future

Central to the SparkHub’s mission is its high-tech curriculum focused on emerging fields in the digital landscape. Students will immerse themselves in modular learning experiences tied to some of the fastest-growing industries, including:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
• Game Design and Esports
• Cybersecurity
• Software Development
• UX/UI Design
• Data Analytics
• Exploring Technology Careers

This curriculum is not just about theoretical knowledge; it emphasizes experiential, project-based learning that remains adaptive to the evolving demands of the tech industry. Students will gain insights not only into concepts but also the practical applications that drive today’s workforce.

A Unique Pathway to Credit

One of the standout features of the SparkHub is its modular approach to education. This innovative method allows students to progress through courses at their own pace, within a framework that prioritizes flexibility and autonomy. By completing six targeted learning experiences and building a professional portfolio, students can earn high school credit in computer science through GCS.

This departure from fixed schedules positions students as active participants in their learning journeys, allowing them to align their academic achievements with real-world skills and career goals.

Mentorship and Innovation

The SparkHub’s strategic location within the UNCG environment offers more than just educational resources; it provides students with direct access to faculty expertise and cutting-edge research initiatives, such as ARCADE (Applied Research in Computer Arts, Digitization and Esports). This robust academic network ensures that students receive mentorship and guidance as they explore advanced technologies across various disciplines.

Furthermore, the SparkHub serves as a practical training ground for UNCG students—particularly future educators and researchers. As they engage with high school participants, these UNCG students gain valuable experience in innovative teaching methods within a next-generation educational setting.

Celebrating New Beginnings

The launch ceremony for the SparkHub was a significant event, attended by influential figures including UNC System President Peter Hans, Guilford County Schools Superintendent Whitney Oakley, and NC Senator Phil Berger. This digital signing ceremony not only marked the official commencement of the SparkHub but also underscored the collective commitment to fostering a future where students are well-prepared for a world rich with opportunities.

As the SparkHub unfolds its potential, it promises to create a powerful ripple effect throughout North Carolina’s educational landscape, inspiring a generation of learners ready to engage with—and thrive in—the rapidly evolving global economy.