Board approves UNC Wilmington SPARK exchange trip for up to six students
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Summary
The board approved a July 13–15 SPARK exchange trip to UNC Wilmington for up to six rising 9th–12th graders; the program offers dorm stays, industry panels and potential computer science credit.
The Ashe County Schools Board of Education approved a request to send up to six students to a SPARK exchange at the University of North Carolina Wilmington from July 13–15, pending final roster and logistics.
District staff described the SPARK exchange as a team-based summer program where students meet technology and industry experts, explore tracks such as coastal engineering, marine cybersecurity and virtual reality, stay in the university dorms and receive most meals. Staff said participation can provide credit toward a computer science requirement if students later complete additional SPARKLab modules.
The board recorded a motion and second and the chair announced the motion carried. Staff said students in grades eight through eleven (rising ninth through twelfth graders) could apply using an advertised poster and QR-code application; seniors graduating this year are not eligible. The district will limit initial slots to six students but staff said they may explore filling unused slots from other participating schools.