Meet Our Team

Mary Lynn Sparks brings nearly a decade of experience in elementary education and a deep commitment to equity and excellence. Originally from Gary, Indiana, her career pivoted from business to education after her daughter’s early reading challenges inspired a passion for literacy and learning.
 
Mary Lynn holds a B.S. in Business Marketing from Hampton University, an M.S. in Education (Reading and Literacy) from Capella University, and an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Regent University.
 
She has served as a teacher, instructional coach, and in key leadership roles at RISE, including Director of MTSS and Test Coordinator. In these roles, she led data-driven interventions, coordinated afterschool tutoring, integrated i-Ready into MTSS, and ensured full compliance with state testing.
 
Her work is rooted in the belief that education unlocks purpose and potential. She is a two-time Teacher Innovation Grant recipient, recognized for her leadership in early literacy and data-informed practices.
 
Outside of school, Mary Lynn enjoys reading, journaling, and spending time with her daughter Madison, who remains her inspiration.