Reimagine What’s Possible After the Bell
We partner with districts and schools to turn before- and after-school hours into a powerful extension of the school day that builds resilience, accelerates academic growth, and strengthens connections.
The Five-Hour Advantage
We turn five extra hours a day into measurable growth for students and for schools. Our model expands learning time by the equivalent of 125 school days each year, reinforcing academics, SEL, and well-being in ways that align with your school’s mission. Co-created with principals, teachers, and districts, our programs reflect your values, culture, and goals. We are not backed by private equity; we’re built by educators, and we reinvest directly into student impact. When you choose Innovation Learning, you’re choosing a partner who puts people first and outcomes within reach.
Our Core Values Drive Every Partnership
At the heart of every Innovation Learning program are the four pillars of resilience. These values shape how we design programs, train staff, and support school communities:
Belonging
We create safe, inclusive environments where every child and educator feels respected and connected.
Mastery
We celebrate progress, effort, and growth through hands-on learning and thoughtful feedback.
Independence
We give children and staff voice, ownership, and the confidence to lead.
Generosity
We model service, collaboration, and empathy—lifting each other up in every interaction.
A Mission-Driven Partner With Deep Experience
With decades of experience designing before- and after-school programs, our educator-led team works alongside yours to co-create engaging, measurable, and resilience-focused learning experiences—built for your students, your staff, and your community.
Experienced Educators Who Understand What Works
Our team is made up of former principals, teachers, and youth development leaders. We bring real-world expertise to the design of before- and after-school, summer, and enrichment programs that center on what children need to thrive.
Enrichment That Matters
Too often, extended learning time is treated as an afterthought. We see it differently. Our programs bring structure, innovation, and joy to the hours before and after school, transforming them into meaningful time for growth, discovery, and resilience.
Custom Programs, Co-Created With Schools
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Our programs are built in partnership with each school and designed to reflect your goals, serve your students, and align with your community’s culture and needs.
Whole-Child Development in Every Program
We build programs that engage the whole child and build resilience while supporting academic growth, social-emotional skills development, confidence, and connection. Every session is rooted in our four pillars: belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity.
Design a Program That Reflects Your Mission
Our model is flexible, collaborative, and built for you. From early childhood to academic recovery to full-day summer learning, we offer a menu of evidence-based options that let you create the right fit aligned with your mission, vision, and values.
STEAM Learning That Sparks Innovation
STEAM—science, technology, engineering, art, and math—is at the core of our enrichment model. Through hands-on projects, students explore real-world problems, express creativity, and build resilience through teamwork and discovery.
Enrichment That Builds Lifelong Curiosity
Whether it’s morning, afternoon, or summer, students engage in enriching activities that nurture new passions, from music and sports to design and storytelling. These experiences unlock confidence and curiosity that carry into the classroom and beyond.
Movement, Play, and Teamwork
Active play is more than fun; it builds social-emotional strength. Our programs integrate sports and group games to promote fitness, teamwork, and connection in ways that support every learner’s growth.
Learning Meets Adventure
From the first hello to the end-of-day circle, every moment of our programs is designed to foster connection, growth, and joy. We help schools make every hour a time for resilience, discovery, and adventure.
Before and After School
We turn extra hours into advantage hours that reinforce academics, SEL, and physical health in a structured, joyful environment that supports students and complements the school day.
Summer Programs
Our summer learning blends hands-on exploration, academic recovery, and creative enrichment in ways that help students stay connected, confident, and ready for the next school year.
Early Childhood
We build foundational skills in a caring, structured setting. Young learners gain routines, language, and confidence, making the transition to school smoother and more joyful.
Enrichment
Every enrichment experience is designed to stretch thinking and inspire creativity while promoting mastery, teamwork, and self-expression through fun and engaging challenges.
Academic Recovery
Our research-based recovery programs close learning gaps, build academic confidence, and support the whole child through personalized instruction and caring relationships.
What Our Partners Say
School leaders trust us to co-create programs that align with their vision, support school goals, and meet students’ real needs.
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"I am writing to share my heartfelt testimony about the incredible impact of the after-school program that your organization provides. As the leader of Imagine Foundations at Leeland, I am truly grateful for the safe, organized, and enjoyable environment it offers to our children this school year.
The after-school program has proven to be an invaluable resource for our community. It serves as a haven for children, providing a safe and structured space where they can thrive and grow outside of regular school hours. The emphasis on safety measures, including supervised activities and a secure environment, brings immense peace of mind to the Leeland Community.
Most importantly, the after-school program cultivates a sense of community and belonging among the participants. The dedicated staff members create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where children feel accepted and valued. This sense of camaraderie and support contributes significantly to the positive experiences and growth of the children involved.
I have personally witnessed the positive impact this program has had on many of our scholars. This year’s program implementation by Mr. Richard, has regained the trust of many families and has changed from a culture of complaining to one of celebration. Mr. Richard and Ms. McKenzie are to be commended for their efforts.
In conclusion, I cannot express enough gratitude for the after-school program your organization provides. It has made a remarkable difference in the lives of our children and the community as a whole.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the well-being and development of our Leeland scholars."
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"I am pleased to write this reference letter in support of the Innovation Learning program implemented in Montgomery County Public Schools. Innovation Learning is a quintessential part of the Out of School Time program offered in three schools daily.
Innovation Learning stands out for its commitment to fostering not only academic growth but also personal development and community engagement. The program offers a diverse range of activities and opportunities tailored to meet the interests and needs of its participants. Whether through academic support sessions, creative workshops, or projects, Innovation Learning provides a nurturing and inclusive environment where students can thrive.
One of the most impressive aspects of Innovation Learning is the dedication and expertise of its staff. They demonstrate a genuine passion for empowering young people and are adept at cultivating a sense of belonging and self-confidence among program participants. Through mentorship, encouragement, and personalized support, they inspire students to set ambitious goals and work diligently towards achieving them.
Furthermore, I have consistently observed how involvement in Innovation Learning positively impacts students' academic performance, attitudes towards learning, and overall well-being. Participants develop essential skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience, which are invaluable not only in school but also in life beyond the classroom."
"We made the switch to Innovation Learning for our after school programming for the 17-18 school year, and couldn't be happier. Prior to Innovation Learning, we struggled for years with how to manage, coordinate, and provide solid, quality services that aligned with our mission and philosophy. We have tried both in-house and out-of-house programming with dismal results. Not surprisingly, Innovation Learning has delivered from the very first conversation. They say what they mean, and mean what they say. From their leadership to their teachers, each brings professionalism, knowledge, and skill specific to education. They take the time to hire the best and most qualified professionals, thoughtfully plan their curriculum, and pay close attention to the needs and desires of the school.
For the first time in 10 years, I am thrilled with after school services and believe i n their ability to actually strengthen and enhance our instructional program while keeping with the culture we have established in our school. Pure Genius. Thank you, Innovation Learning!"
"Our district went through a proposal process and Innovation Learning came out on top. This is our first year in a partnership agreement, and it has gone very well so far. They started with us after a long 40-year relationship with the YMCA, and the transition has been very successful for families and students. The staff have been very professional and easy to work with. One of their stand out strengths is the fact that they have recruited and provided quality staff with strong communication skills, which got us off to a great start. Any potential issues were resolved ahead of time, and since the start of the school year, our district has not received one complaint about the program. Another strength is their program model. They are not viewed as an aftercare program; they have provided new and enriching experiences for our students. The curriculum, technology provided, and activities planned keep students engaged. Since they have taken over, the school principals have felt a sense of relief. They have shared that they feel that they can focus less on the after school program (although important) but has saved them time from dealing with issues. I have no doubt that Innovation Learning would add value to any school or district.”
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