PROJECT SPARC...
64 years of success in engaging and inspiring students...
PROJECT SPARC
The Space Research Center (SPARC) is a preeminent after-school STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education program of the Magnet School and NEHS. Project SPARC began in the early 1960s to promote the development of leaders dedicated to the extension of mankind’s grasp beyond that of planet Earth. By educating students with interest in medicine, the computer sciences, electronics, engineering, flight management, and robotics, Project SPARC provides practical hands-on experience for students in their individual fields of interest.
COOL FACT
Project SPARC’s day-to-day operations are all student led.
Project SPARC began with simulated space missions. That hands-on, space-inspired foundation remains a visible part of the program, but SPARC has evolved into a comprehensive STEM and aerospace learning environment centered on design, fabrication, and applied engineering.
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Today, Project SPARC’s facilities include the Apollo training capsule, eight mission control–style workstations, a Graphics and Visualization training center, and advanced 3D computer graphics and manufacturing systems supporting CAD, modeling, and digital fabrication. Students also have access to dedicated robotics and electronics laboratories and a fully functioning woodshop, enabling them to move from concept to prototype using both traditional and modern manufacturing tools.
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Rather than focusing on a single end-of-year simulation, SPARC emphasizes sustained, project-based learning throughout the academic year. Students work in collaborative teams on real-world design and engineering challenges, developing technical proficiency, creativity, teamwork, and leadership—skills that prepare them for competitive college programs and future careers in aerospace, engineering, advanced manufacturing, and other STEM fields.
Space Travel, Robotics, Engineering, Medicine and more...
Students are engaged and inspired to pursue careers in STEM fields and many SPARC alumni have become physicians, scientists and engineers as well as attorneys and business leaders.
THE MAGNET SCHOOL
“The Magnet Program at NEHS was central to my pursuit of a career in physics and engineering. Michael Freedman, Robert Montgomery and SPARC also inspired my partners, Mark Zod and Jack Weiss, to enter engineering. I was glad to contribute today to the Save SPARC campaign.
John Kamal, Class of 1979
The Northeast High School (NEHS) Medical, Engineering & Aerospace Magnet Program provides a rigorous college preparatory program which attracts students with strong science and math aptitudes. The goal of the magnet school is to provide the education and that will engage the students and encourage them to pursuing careers in the medical fields, engineering, and the aerospace sciences. Students from all parts of the School District of Philadelphia student population compete to attend the Northeast High School Medical, Engineering and Aerospace Magnet School.