Sparks for Success!

Sparks for Success! serves children affected by parental incarceration. Sparks provides free private music lessons and conducts Therapeutic Drumming classes.

Research paints a dismal picture for children who have a parent with a history of incarceration. In many families it is not unusual to see family members, friends, and neighbors committing crimes, being arrested and convicted, and going to jail or prison. In fact, it sometimes expected that the children will follow that pattern.

Sparks is a proactive program, giving the children a positive way to develop discipline and perseverence through music. Studies show that children who learn to play an instrument, and those involved in group music activities achieve higher scores on standardized tests, have better school attendance, and make better life choices than those involved in other extracurricular activities.

Sparks is currently teaching in central East Austin schools.