Privacy Policy

Last Updated: September 30, 2025

At Sparks Discovery, we are committed to protecting the privacy of students, parents, educators, and visitors to our website. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard information. By accessing or using our website, products, or services, you agree to this Privacy Policy.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

a. Personal Information
We may collect personal data when you register or interact with the Platform, such as:

• Name
• Email address
• school or organization details
• Other information voluntarily provided when registering, subscribing, or contacting us

b. Student Information
Limited student information may be collected through schools or parents for participation in programs. We comply with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act) when handling student data.

c. Non-Personal Information
Browser type, IP address, device type, cookies, and general usage data used to improve user experience.

We do not knowingly collect personal information directly from children under 13 without verified parental or school consent.

2. How We Use Information

Information is used strictly for the following purposes:

• To provide access to Sparks Discovery programs, workshops, and digital resources.
• To improve our website, services, and educational offerings.
• To communicate with parents, educators, and partners regarding events, resources, and updates.
• To comply with applicable laws and regulations, including FERPA and COPPA.

3. How We Protect Information

• We implement administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect data.
• We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information to third parties.
• We limit access to personal data to authorized staff, schools, or service providers under confidentiality obligations.

4. Disclosure of Information

We may disclose information:

• With parental or school consent.
• To comply with legal obligations (court orders, subpoenas, government requests).
• To trusted service providers who help us operate the website or deliver services, under strict confidentiality agreements.

We are not responsible for the practices of third-party websites, apps, or services that may be linked to or from Sparks Discovery. Users are encouraged to review the privacy policies of those third parties.

5. Parental & School Rights

Parents and schools have the right to:

• Review personal or student information collected.
• Request correction or deletion of personal/student information.
• Withdraw consent at any time (which may limit program access).

Requests may be made by contacting us at the information below.

6. Cookies & Tracking

• Our website may use cookies, analytics, and similar technologies to improve functionality and user experience.
• Cookies do not collect personal data unless voluntarily provided.
• Users may disable cookies through browser settings, though this may affect site functionality.

7. Limitation of Liability

Sparks Discovery is not liable for:

• Unauthorized access, hacking, or misuse of data beyond our reasonable control.
• Errors or actions of third-party service providers, linked sites, or external platforms.
• User actions, including the voluntary disclosure of personal information.

Use of Sparks Discovery’s website and services is at your own risk. While we take every precaution to protect information, no system is 100% secure.

8. Policy Updates

We reserve the right to update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, laws, or services. Updates will be posted on this page, accompanied by a revised “Last Updated” date. Continued use of the website or services constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions.

9. Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy or to exercise your rights, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us:

claire@sparksdisovery.org

 803.603.0839

1225 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC 29201