
The SPARK Parent Podcast connects parents and caregivers with the knowledge and resources they need to survive and thrive during remote and hybrid learning.
Hosted by the LTC’s Colleen Kaplan, each episode strives to provide families with up-to-date knowledge on topics ranging from social-emotional learning to the importance of reading.
Many episodes will also feature a guest speaker, whose expert insights can help listeners unlock their full potential as remote learning facilitators.
The SPARK Parent Podcast is produced by the Learning Technology Center of Illinois. The LTC is an Illinois State Board of Education program that supports all public K-12 districts, schools, and educators through technology initiatives, services, and professional learning opportunities.
- Where to Listen:
- Anchor
- Breaker
- Google Podcasts
- Overcast
- PocketCasts
- Radio Public
Meet the Host

Colleen Kaplan
Colleen Kaplan is the Remote Learning Outreach Specialist for the Learning Technology Center of Illinois (LTC). In this role, Colleen leads the SPARK Program (Supporting Parents and Remote Kids), which aims to provide support and resources created specifically for parents and caregivers during remote and hybrid learning. Additionally, Colleen is a self-proclaimed Microsoft evangelist and covers many of the Microsoft trainings the LTC offers.
Prior to joining the LTC in August 2020, Colleen spent 10 years in various roles, including a high school technology integration specialist, CTE, and English teacher. She is a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert and Fellow, a Microsoft Certified Educator, and an ISTE Certified Educator. She holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Colleen works with schools across the state but is located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago.