Preparing kids for kindergarten may sound simple, but it’s the difference between showing up ready to learn or starting behind. The SPARK program is doing something extraordinary: bringing early education into the home so every child has a real chance to thrive.

In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes Jennifer Washock, Lead Specialist for the SPARK Program through Appleseed Community Mental Health Center. Jennifer shares how SPARK helps three- and four-year-olds in Ashland County build the skills and confidence they need before kindergarten. Through in-home lessons, family involvement, and one-on-one attention from “parent partners,” the program bridges gaps in early education while strengthening family relationships.

And yes, there’s a little fun at the end! Amy couldn’t resist diving into Jennifer’s other passion: extreme couponing. How does someone save enough through coupons to pay cash for a car and a house down payment? Jennifer explains her strategy, discipline, and why saving money is just another form of empowerment.

We hope you enjoy this episode, as it reminds us that intentional effort, whether through learning or saving, can lead to life-changing results.

Takeaways

– SPARK stands for Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids and serves local families with three- and four-year-olds.

– The program brings learning into homes, giving parents a hands-on role in early education.

– It’s free, funded through Appleseed, United Way, and Ashland Job and Family Services.

– Families can join anytime during the school year and receive personalized monthly lessons.

– Parent partners play a vital role, guiding learning and supporting both children and caregivers.

– SPARK graduates show higher confidence, stronger communication skills, and readiness for school success.

– The program is currently seeking more parent partners as it grows across the county.

– Education, collaboration, and community care are at the heart of SPARK’s mission.

The Ashland Connected Podcast is sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland, your distinctively different dealer, and the Chevy Network