Igniting a Love of
Reading, STEM & Connection
SPARKS Book Club brings together 3rd–5th grade students for joyful reading, hands-on STEM activities, and real community — virtually, every month.
More Than a Book Club
We believe every student deserves a safe, joyful space to read, explore, and feel seen — and we build that space for every student we serve.
Love of Reading
Students choose the books they want to read — so they actually want to read them. We select age-appropriate titles that reflect diverse voices and open windows to new worlds.
Social Connection
SPARKS gives students a reliable, joyful space to connect with peers. Kind cameras, fun ice-breakers, and a no-pressure atmosphere make every session feel like home.
STEM Curiosity
Books pair with hands-on STEM projects — coding in Scratch, planting mini herb gardens, designing experiments. We show students that science and stories go hand in hand.
Our Impact So Far
Something Special Arrives Before Every Session
We mail each student their own package — book, STEM supplies, and craft materials — all ready to open together at our virtual session.
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Born From a Pandemic, Built on Purpose
In 2020, sisters Ariel and Becca Pollard saw what was slipping away for kids in the Montgomery County school system: routine, social belonging, and the joy of learning. Together with Barbara Friedlander, they started SPARKS.
What began as a small virtual book club quickly grew into something bigger. A community where students look forward to signing on every month. Where books become conversation-starters, and where every student's voice matters.
Today, SPARKS is in its sixth year — still student-led, still virtual, still showing up every month with books, STEM projects, and something special to open.
Meet the Team
Help Us Keep the Spark Alive
Your support funds books, STEM supplies, and mailed packages for every student. Every dollar goes directly to the kids.