Our Mission
At Spark Labs our mission is to provide a dynamic and stimulating environment where children of all learning styles can build, create, and innovate. We foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while nurturing a lifelong love of learning.
Through STEAM-based activities and social clubs, we engage kids in hands-on, collaborative learning with a variety of enrichment classes, workshops, camps, and innovative programs.
Meet the Spark Labs Team
Our partners and teachers represent a diverse range of STEAM disciplines—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. Each of our partners brings a unique approach to hands-on learning, inspiring creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. Together, we offer programs that engage students of all ages and interests, helping them discover new passions and develop skills for the future.
Spark Labs
Snapology Grapevine
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Melanie Galaviz
As the founder of Spark Labs, Melanie is dedicated to empowering children of all learning styles to build, create, and innovate. Before entering the educational sector, she spent her career developing future leaders and overseeing retail stores across North America.
Now, her expertise in fostering growth and creativity provides learners of all ages the opportunity to explore their potential and build relationships through hands-on STEAM activities.
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DFWRPG
Reese Zahner
Reese (she/her) is a Game/Dungeon Master (GM/DM) based in Dallas-Fort Worth, known for crafting engaging, choice-driven adventures. Playing by “The Rule of Cool,” she ensures every encounter is memorable and fun.
With 13 years of experience in childcare, Reese is excited to help adventurers of all ages create stories they’ll remember for years to come.
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Six Pixels
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Nicole Leuschner
Nicole Leuschner, co-founder of Six Pixels, brings over two decades of live production expertise to the world of student filmmaking. Alongside co-founder David and with the technical direction of their son Justin—a skilled editor, animator, and filmmaker—Nicole is dedicated to offering a unique, immersive learning experience for all students.
The Six Pixels team’s commitment to real-world, industry-level instruction inspires students to master both sides of the camera, building confidence and creativity in every project.
STEAM Studio
Heidi Risley
Heidi is a certified K-12 art teacher with over 10 years of experience in public schools, online education, and creative programs.
STEAM Studio was created from her passion for blending art with science and design, inspiring students to explore their creativity through hands-on projects. She encourages learners to experiment with various mediums, connecting art to curiosity and innovation in a fun and engaging way.
Learn More About STEAM vs. STEM
from Leading Experts
Smithsonian Science Education Center
Picking Up STEAM
​"STEAM supporters argue that pushing students towards learning "hard skills" (e.g., coding, programming, etc.) is done at the expense of the arts, which works to the detriment of the country's workforce and productivity in the long-run."
Edutopia: George Lucas Educational Foundation
Creativity is the Secret Sauce in STEM
"Creativity breaks the Ice to Enable Learning." "Researchers have found that play is important for productive thought. Playing with ideas also increases learning."
US National Science Foundation
6 NSF research projects that turn STEM into STEAM
"By adding art in their work, NSF-funded researchers are breaking traditional boundaries to transform STEM -- science, technology, engineering and mathematics -- into STEAM!"
