FAQS for Study Hall

• • What do students need to bring to Spark Study Hall?

    Students will be required to bring their own school supplies, including a computer/tablet, charger/cord, headphones, pencils, paper and any necessary textbooks. Additional supplies to bring each day include non-refrigerated lunch and snacks, cloth face covering or mask, a water bottle, and a book or quiet activity

  • What if my child doesn’t have access to a laptop or tablet?

    Spark has a small selection of Apple iMac laptops that would be available weekly for student use at the science centre. Laptops will not be shared. If you do require these please reserve on in advance by emailing [email protected]. All laptops are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • How will you ensure students will follow their individual school schedule?

    Due to varying school schedules, Spark will work with each student to ensure they are online for all live virtual sessions and will complete independent assignments during the school day as time provides. Please note, Spark staff will use your child’s teacher to have primary responsibility for their educational needs. Spark educators are science specialists who can provide basic support, but are not tutors or classroom educators.

  • What protocols will be in place for COVID-19?

    TELUS Spark Science Center implemented health and safety procedures and protocols as it relates to COVID-19. These protocols, which were tested during our Summer Camp season, primarily fall into the categories of intensified cleaning, health and hygiene best practices, and physical distancing efforts. Protocols include, but are not limited to, the following:

    · All students and staff will be expected to wear a mask in the science center.

    · The Study Hall students will be treated as a cohort and will not exceed more than 20 students and one staff member in our double-sized classroom.

    · Staff members, parents or guardians and children will not be allowed to attend if they are sick, even if symptoms resemble a mild cold (refund policy developed to match).

    · Parents and guardians will be required to check the temperature of their children daily before coming to camp. Staff members will be conducting active symptom screening of each child every day with the parent or guardian as they drop off their children.

    · Physical distancing within each camp group will be practiced in classes as well as anywhere else onsite. Should there be more than one group, each will have their own designated classroom for the week and they will not be allowed to intermingle with other classes.

    · Shared spaces and materials will be cleaned and disinfected before and after use.

  • Can I send someone else to pick up my child?

    Parents/guardians are required to have documented the name and phone number of who will be picking up their child on the sign in/out sheet. You can add an alternate pick-up for your child, by calling or emailing from a number/email address on your child’s file, or by adding someone to your child’s file in the morning when you are dropping them off. Spark staff will not allow an adult that's not listed on file to take the child home. Picture ID is required for all adults picking up students at the end of every single day.

  • When does Spark Study Hall begin and end?

    Study Hall runs from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. Before and after care is included in the cost of Study Hall and runs from 8:00 am – 9:00 am and 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm. You are welcome to drop-off and pick-up students any time during those one hour windows.

  • Can I pick up my child early?

    If a parent/guardian requires taking your child out early for any reason, please inform Spark staff in the morning at drop-off. When you arrive for early pick-up, please check in with the front desk staff who can help you locate your child’s group.

  • Where should we drop off children upon arrival?

    A Spark staff or volunteer will greet guests at the front door in the morning on Monday and help you locate your room. Signs inside the building will assist you in wayfinding.

  • Why do you need the Alberta Health Care Number?

    The primary concern is for the safety of Spark's guests. In the unlikely event that your child requires emergency medical attention while they are in Spark's care, it is vital to have their Alberta Health Care number for medical professionals.

  • Do I have to pay for parking when dropping off and picking up my child?

    The first 30 minutes of parking is free for parents and caregivers dropping off and picking up students. Activating a parking session is not required during pick-up and drop-off hours. For late drop-offs or early pick-ups, please activate a 30-mins free parking session on the Park Plus machines outside the front entrance. If you plan to stay at the Centre beyond pick up and drop off hours, a daily parking flat fee of $7 is required. Spark members get free parking.

  • What if I am late picking up a child?

    Please be prompt and call Spark as soon as possible should there be an outstanding circumstance that causes you to be late. If you have not arrived to pick up your child by 5:00 pm, you will be contacted via the numbers listed on your child’s registration info. If you cannot be reached by 5:15 pm, child services will be contacted.