Parent Information

Participating in Clark Splash gives your children a unique opportunity for self-motivated learning in a variety of subjects taught by friendly and knowledgeable teachers. We strongly encourage your child to take advantage of the opportunity!

What is Splash?

Splash is an educational program run and organized entirely by student volunteers. Clark students teach one- or two-hour classes on a topic that interests them. This means that there will be a wide variety of classes. 5th - 12th grade students then come to campus and take any (and only) classes they want.

What should I do while my child is attending Splash?

A designated parents lounge will be available during Splash with free WiFi, however, parents are not required to stay on campus. Parents may purchase food on campus at the Bistro or Jazzman's Cafe or from nearby eateries. Please note that parents are not permitted in classes.

Student Motivation

One of Splash’s primary goals is to provide a unique educational environment for students who want to learn (whether to explore new interests, to deepen their understanding of a fun topic, or to get a fresh look at material that failed to engage them fully in a school setting). To do so, we need a body of eager students. To that end, we insist that students register themselves (rather than having parents or teachers register them). We want students to be enthusiastic about the program without any pressure from parents or teachers and to choose the classes in which they’re interested. The biggest damper on the day’s atmosphere are students who aren’t interested in the classes they are signed up for. Please help us make Splash a success by giving the students the full freedom to engage with Splash as an individual.

Class Capacities and Grade Levels

Each volunteer teacher sets the maximum number of students and grade levels for their specific class. We understand that some students perform above their grade level or are just simply interested in a class above the designated grade. However, our teachers have the final say on the grade level of their classes, and as such, we cannot make exceptions.

In addition, once a class is full, we cannot add any extra students to the class. Teachers make decisions on class capacity based on a variety of factors which are carefully considered. Further, many classes are held in rooms that cannot accommodate additional students, or have a limited quantity of materials.

Sitting in on Classes

Splash is designed as a program where students can explore their interests individually while making new friends and meeting mentors. We want to foster a learning environment without any pressure from home. Therefore we generally do not allow parents to sit in on Splash classes. Exceptions may be made for those who require accommodations.

Supervision

Clark ESP makes every effort to ensure the safety of all Splash students. As such, all teachers attend mandatory training sessions, and volunteers are stationed throughout Clark's campus. Posted signs and campus maps also direct students toward classes. However, we cannot guarantee that Splash students will be supervised at all times, such as between classes. Therefore, students should feel comfortable navigating a college campus using the provided maps and signage. Volunteers are available to assist students as needed.

Special Needs

Clark ESP is committed to providing wonderful and inclusive learning opportunities to all students. Please contact us ahead of time if your child has a disability that requires special care or consideration. If your child has a physical disability, it is especially important that we know, as we need to make sure your child’s classrooms are accessible. We are happy to discuss accommodations with you to ensure the best experience for your child.

Please keep in mind that our teachers are college students without any specialized training for those with special needs. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact us.

Splash is a Non-profit Student Organization

The Clark University Educational Studies Program (ESP) was founded by Clark students and is run entirely by Clark students. We have no official association with the Clark University administration or the admissions office. We think meeting Clark students and seeing the campus is a great way to get yourself acquainted with our school, but coming to Splash will not give your child a “leg up” if they apply to Clark.

Forms

We require all participants to have a parent or other legal guardian to sign a liability waiver form before participating in any program. These forms are required for check-in. We will send them to your email address before the program. The form can also be downloaded here! 
Student Code of Conduct All students are required to abide by our Student Code of Conduct. Students must acknowledge reading and understanding these policies during online registration. By signing our liability waiver, parents / guardians further acknowledge these policies.

A Note on Health Emergencies

In case of an injury or medical emergency, Clark ESP personnel will take reasonable steps to notify the participant’s emergency contact. If the emergency contact is unavailable, ESP personnel will arrange for the participant to receive medical attention. All financial responsibility for transportation, hospitalization, and medical care provided is to be assumed by the parent or guardian.

Feedback & Questions

We welcome your questions, comments, thoughts, and suggestions. Drop us a line at clarkuesp@gmail.com./clarkuesp@gmail.com