As families gather school supplies and adjust to new routines this August, ArtSpace Charter School in Swannanoa is preparing for a different kind of back-to-school moment—one that’s still a year away, but already generating excitement. Spark Learning Center, a new hybrid public charter school created by the team behind the ESEA National Distinguished School, will open its doors- virtual and in person- in Fall 2026.
Spark is designed to meet students where they are—literally and figuratively. Blending online instruction with in-person experiences, this program will offer a flexible, arts-integrated approach grounded in connection, creativity, and curiosity. The goal? To expand access to high-quality, relationship-driven learning for students who may not thrive in a traditional setting or who need something different in school.
“We’re not building a tech-first program—we’re building a people-first community that uses technology as a tool,” says Dr. Sarena Fuller, the school’s Executive Director. “Spark reflects everything that has made ArtSpace successful for over 20 years: the arts, whole-child learning, innovation, and a strong culture of belonging.”
Open to students in grades 5–8 from Buncombe and neighboring counties, Spark is designed for curious, self-motivated learners—whether they're facing barriers to in-person learning, seeking greater flexibility, or looking to deepen their educational experience. Unlike many emerging remote programs built around AI or screen time, Spark offers a blended experience that keeps students connected to teachers, peers, and creativity—an extension of the award-winning ArtSpace approach, and one of the first of its kind in North Carolina.
Families interested in learning more can visit www.artspacecharter.org or email [email protected] to sign up for the mailing list to receive updates as the inaugural class takes shape.