About Me

My name is Darcie Rankin. I am the creator and owner of SPARK Studios. I started my professional career as an electrical engineer at IBM, but found my true passion was for working with students when I had a chance to go into schools to speak about science and engineering.  I received my elementary teaching endorsement and Masters degree in Curriculum from St. Michael’s College.  I have been learning alongside elementary and middle school students for the last fifteen years in public and private school settings teaching enriching STEAM curriculums. I have also created engineering and art summer camps, in school residencies and professional development opportunities for educators across Vermont.. I strive to infuse my educational practice with student voice and choice as I encourage students to take risks, be creative, collaborate, play and have fun!

My career path has had many twists and turns and along the way I have had the opportunity to learn from many amazing people. My dream is to provide everyone in our local community (and beyond!) with hands on learning experiences that help them to make and create. SPARK Studios is the start of putting this dream into practice and I am so excited to be working toward my goal in Richmond Vermont, the place that my family calls home! It is my hope that my fire and passion for this new venture will be fueled by the ideas and feedback from my community—together lets spark our curiosity for art, engineering and science learning!