Since 2003, the Crossing has provided an avenue for educational success, specifically designed for students who struggle in a traditional school environment. Our Founder, Rob Staley, a former Principal of Concord High School in Elkhart, was passionate about making a difference in the lives of teens looking for a fresh start. He started out with a handful of students and a dream of helping them navigate challenges to find success in life and learn through academics, job training, and faith-based character education. Our students come from all corners of the educational landscape. In recent years, the Crossing has developed Career Pathway Programs for students who need a practical hands-on education. Our welcoming and safe family environment helps our students feel a genuine sense of belonging.
Over the years, our campuses have created unique School-Based Enterprises to assist students in gaining a better understanding of real-life business principles.
Spark Ignite
In 2015, the Crossing developed the Spark Ignite Candle Company as a way to teach students not only about manufacturing a product but also the principles of selling products in the marketplace. At first, students started out selling their candles in open-air markets, events, and directly to people visiting the campus, and in 2018, began wholesaling the candles to Martin’s Super Markets in their 20+ stores in Northern Indiana. Each year, students try to expand the program to new wholesale customers and are so excited at the launch of e-commerce sales in the 2023-2024 school year with this very website!
Student Leadership
One of the most important principles of our program is to truly have our students operating the program under our Career Pathway Instructor’s leadership. The students are responsible for inventory, product procurement, quality control, controlling expenses, marketing, and every other aspect of running a business. Our students run the program, our staff supports them in their endeavors.
Meet our 2024-2025 Student Co-Leader
Jenualiz Otero
Jenualiz, also known as Jojo, became a student of SPARK in 2024 through the 1/2 WBL program. She is currently a senior at Elkhart High School. Jojo jumped right in eager to learn about candle making. She has enjoyed meeting more students through The Crossing. She states that being at the Crossing has held her accountable for her grades, attendance, and attitude. She has also learned and grown closer to God during her time here. She is a hard and diligent worker and has greatly improved our program’s quality control.
Meet our 2024-2025 Student Co-Leader
Yarian Roldan
Yarian also joined SPARK in 2024 through the 1/2 day WBL program and she is a senior at Elkhart High School. Yarian is a leader and a quick learner which has led her to this position. Sitting in a classroom for 8 hours was a struggle for her and she fell behind, leading her to our program. She prefers hands-on learning and the idea of running a small business. Since becoming a part of the Crossing her “I don’t care attitude” has greatly improved and she sincerely looks forward to coming to school.
