NEW DIRECTOR ON A MISSION TO INSPIRE STUDENTS TO WIN IN THE GAME OF LIFE

Meet Derek Sparks.

Derek Sparks is no stranger to schools. In fact, he is no stranger to inspiring youth. After retiring from the NFL, Derek Sparks has been a Champion for youth and education in the State of Washington for the past 10 years. Derek comes to us with an extensive background as Director for three notable youth related programs in the Seattle area. As Director of the Tukwila Community Schools Collaboration, Derek successfully increased teacher involvement and student participation with the after school enrichment programs for middle & high school levels by meeting the specific needs of each school.

Derek joined the AGC Education Foundation a few years later as the Education Director where he managed programs that were geared toward careers in the construction trades and apprenticeship programs. Derek collaborated with schools around the state to facilitate a hands-on math & science program called ‘Ready-Set-Build’ which quickly became popular amongst teachers experiencing low math scores in their classrooms.

Derek was then recruited to Olympic College to be the Tech Prep Director where he coordinated articulation agreements between the College and local high schools. This agreement allowed students to gain free college credit while still in high school and get a jump on earning a college degree.

We interacted with him through a couple of different organizations and we saw the presence he commanded with students,” said Dr. Mosby, who worked with Sparks at Olympic College . “They gravitated toward his message.”

Derek is also considered by many, a Youth Motivator because of his ability to inspire youth to reach their full potential despite the odds. As an Author and Motivational Speaker, Derek has impacted over 200 schools throughout the United States with his ‘What time Is It…? It’s Gametime!’ message.

Patrick Olsen, the President of the Washington State Career and Technical Sports Medicine Association said “Do you want someone who genuinely cares about each member of the audience they are talking to and makes a connection to every person no matter how large the room? Derek captivated over 750 students and adults at the 2010 Sports Medicine Competition. Derek will challenge your students to do the right thing, even when no one is looking!”

As you can tell, Derek is very passionate about making an impact on the youth of today. We are very excited to have Derek as a resource in the Orting School District and community at large. Communities in Schools of Orting is committed to developing stronger alliances and looking forward to another 10 years of success on behalf of all students in the Orting School District.

Michelle Curry, the Superintendent of the Orting School District said “All students preparing for college, careers and life is the mission for the Orting School District. Our vision is for every student to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes to be successful life-long learners and engaged citizens in a diverse, global society. I believe that we can accomplish these goals with the help of the Communities In Schools of Orting.”

We encourage all community members, business owners, staff and students to say hello to Derek Sparks, he will be very engaged in our schools and community. If you are not already a partner of the Orting School District and Communities In Schools of Orting, we encourage you to contact the offices of CISO and make an appointment with Derek to join our winning team.

Derek can be reached at 360-893-7185

or by email

info@cis-orting.org

(Media Release: From the office of Communities In Schools of Orting & Orting School District October 25, 2011)