About
Welcome Message from Mrs. Charles
As the new principal at SPARK Academy, I am excited and honored to work with parents and the community to promote exploration and problem solving while learning the fundamental skills necessary to become a life-long learner.
SPARK stands for Scientific, Project-based, Academic Research by Kids.
We believe:
- Play is learning
- Struggle may be productive
- Learning and mastery may be demostrated in multiple ways
- Students should be creators as well as consumers
- Our community is our classroom
Our SPARK family looks forward to exploring, questioning, and creating with your child and your family.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Lorian Charles
Principal
Mrs. Lorian Charles
Welcome to SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary! My name is Lorian Charles and I am proud to be your principal! I have been a part of Athens City Schools since 2002, working first as an ELA teacher at Athens Middle School and then at Athens High School. I also served as an assistant principal at Athens High School for two years, followed by seven years at Athens Intermediate School as an assistant principal. I love working with students to help them achieve their greatest potential, and being a part of team SPARK with its bright students and hardworking staff members brings me great joy.
I have two wonderful daughters, Breanne and Ava, and an amazing husband, Kenny. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling with my family, reading, and jogging or walking. My goal is to partner with parents and other community members to support the long-term success of our students. Do not hesitate to contact me if there is anything I can do to serve our school and community.
Assistant Principal
Phone: 256.233.6627
Email:darran.alexander@acs-k12.org
Degrees and Certifications:
Instructional Leadership Certification, University of North Alabama
M.A.Ed. Physical Education & Health, University of North Alabama
B.S. Physical Education & Health, University of North Alabama
Mr. Darran Alexander
Darran Alexander is a native of Florence, Alabama. Since 2002, he has taught in the elementary setting with experience in physical education, coaching various sports, and administrative roles. He and his wife, Valerie, have 3 beautiful girls. He is a man of Faith and serves as an Elder for the Helton Drive Church of Christ.
He and his family love to travel and camp. Camping is a big part of their lives. Hiking, bike riding, playing games, and making memories are just some of the things they do to bond with each other.
He values being a part of the SPARK Academy Family! He feels that a school should be a happy learning environment where students, staff, and parents can’t wait to walk through the door.