Play-based preschool in Morton, Illinois
Where curious minds become confident learners.
A small, welcoming school where your child is known by name. Purposeful play, close friendships, and room to grow — from age three through kindergarten.
5:1Student-to-teacher ratio
Doctoral-ledResearch behind every day
All-inclusiveSupplies, learning & daily snacks
From first friendships to kindergarten.
One thoughtful approach. A little more independence at every stage.
Compare all programs
Fresh 3's Fridays
Fridays3's Preschool
2 mornings a week4's Preschool
2, 3 or 5 days a weekKindergarten Prep
2, 3 or 5 days a weekKindergarten
Monday–FridayTuition includes curriculum, supplies, art materials, and snacks. No supply lists. No surprise fees.
More ways to growEnrichment and summer play, through age 13.
It looks like play. It's a world of learning.
Building a tower. Telling a story. Finding a way to share. Your child practices the skills that make school — and life — feel possible.
- CuriosityExplore, experiment, and ask why.
- ConnectionMake friends and work things out.
- ConfidenceTry something new. Then try again.
Known by name. Nurtured by design.
Dr. Michelle Peterson brings doctoral research and 20 years in education to a school built around relationships. Our teachers know your child. Our classroom doors are open to you.
DCFS licensed. Degreed, credentialed teachers.
Meet Dr. Michelle Peterson“Since beginning at Spark, our son has begun to notice and identify letters while we are out and about.”
Let's make the first hello easy.
Bring your child, your questions, and a little curiosity. Meet the teachers and picture their first school mornings.
Schedule a TourAbout 30 minutes. Bring your child. No pressure to enroll.
Prefer to call? 309-291-3292
We may be in the classroom. Leave a message and we'll call you back the same day.
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Request a tour.
Share your name and a way to reach you. We'll follow up to arrange a time for your family.
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See their day. Talk it through.
Explore the classrooms, meet the team, and talk about the program, schedule, and start date that fit.
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Get ready for their first day.
When you're ready, we'll guide you through enrollment and help your child feel at home.
1989 N Morton Ave
Morton, IL 61550
Coming from Peoria or Pekin? Explore visit details for your community, or see all areas we serve.
A few things you may be wondering.
How much does Spark Academy cost?
Tuition ranges from $100/month (Fresh 3's Fridays) to $700/month (Kindergarten), paid over 10 months with a 10% discount for full-year payment. Tuition is all-inclusive — curriculum, supplies, art materials, enrichment, and daily snacks. No supply lists, no hidden fees. Compare programs →
What ages does Spark Academy serve?
Core preschool programs serve ages 3 through kindergarten. Enrichment programs — Discovery Station, After-School Enrichment, and Camp Play — extend up to age 13. All programs require potty training.
Is Spark Academy a daycare?
No — Spark is a play-based preschool, not a daycare. A daycare's purpose is supervision; every part of a Spark morning is intentional, curriculum-driven education designed by a doctoral researcher. Read the full comparison →
How do I schedule a tour?
Book online in under a minute, or call 309-291-3292. We may be in the classroom — leave a message and we'll call you back the same day.
Let's talk about your child.
Not quite ready to visit? Send us your question.
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