Why Spark · A boutique preschool in Morton
A place to be known. Room to grow.
Purposeful play, small classes, and teachers who see the whole child. A thoughtful beginning, with your family at the heart of it.
5:1Student-to-teacher ratio
10–12Children per class
Every teacherHolds an education degree or credential
Built on research. Delivered with heart.
Your child's learning is shaped by someone who studies how children grow—and knows them by name.
Dr. Michelle Peterson brings her doctoral research, 20 years in education, and four Illinois teaching certifications into the everyday life of Spark. Our credentialed team turns that knowledge into purposeful play, individual attention, and a warm welcome each morning.
Meet Dr. Michelle Peterson
Your family belongs here, too.
A good beginning grows from a relationship. We want you to know your child's teachers and feel part of their school day.
You're welcome inside.
Ring the bell and check in with a staff member. You're welcome in your child's classroom without an appointment—to watch, ask a question, or spend a little time together.
A window into their day.
Daily photos and updates through Brightwheel give you something real to talk about at dinner. Your child's learning continues in the conversations you share.
Five principles, woven into every day.
Open a principle to see what it means at Spark.
Play with a Purpose
Play is how young children learn. But play with a purpose — guided by research and structured by intention — is how they build the foundations for everything that comes next. Every activity at Spark is designed to develop specific skills through the most powerful learning method available to a young mind.
Relationships First
Children learn best when they feel safe, known, and genuinely cared for. That's why we keep classes small, hire teachers who stay, and build a community where every family is part of something bigger than a roster.
Whole-Child Growth
Academic readiness is important. So are emotional regulation, social confidence, creative expression, and the ability to navigate a world that doesn't come with instructions. Spark develops the whole child — not just the parts that show up on a progress report.
Excellence in Environment
The space where your child learns matters. From the Developmental Play Room that transforms monthly to the homelike classrooms filled with natural light and intentionally chosen materials — every physical detail at Spark is designed to support learning and spark curiosity.
Leadership Through Integrity
We lead with honesty, transparency, and the courage to do what research says is best for children — even when it's harder. Tuition is published. Credentials are verified. Promises are kept.
A purposeful rhythm, every day.
Academic Play. A changing Developmental Playroom. Daily Enrichment, outdoor time, and a shared snack. Familiar routines make room for new discoveries.
Enrolling my son at Spark Academy has been the best decision I've made. [Dr. Peterson] and her entire team truly meet each child at their level and begin to foster a love of learning. Most importantly, my son absolutely loves his school and all of his teachers.
Come feel the difference.
Meet the people, step into the classroom, and picture your child's beginning here. We'd love to welcome you.
Prefer to call? 309-291-3292We may be in the classroom. Leave a message and we'll call you back the same day.
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