Learning That Honors Young People’s Voices

Embark Center is a full-time democratic learning community in Leesburg, Virginia serving ages 9–18, where belonging, authenticity, and real agency shape daily life.

How Learning Works at Embark Center

Young people at Embark Center shape their days through:

• Interest-driven projects and deep exploration
• Democratic meetings and shared responsibility
• Mentorship grounded in trust
• Mixed-age collaboration, creativity, and play
• Real-world skill building through meaningful experiences

Located in the heart of downtown Leesburg, Embark Center is an active part of the local community — where young people are known by name, walk to neighborhood businesses, participate in events, and engage meaningfully with the world beyond our walls.

Enrollment is open year-round. Families can begin when the timing is right

Hear From Our Students and Parents

Why This Model Works


Self-Directed Learning

Young people learn best when they have meaningful ownership over their work. At Embark, students set goals, pursue deep interests, and reflect on their progress — developing initiative, resilience, and real-world competence.

Two people crouch around a fire pit, lighting a small fire with twigs and leaves, outdoors on gravel ground with camping chairs in the background.

Mentorship

Each student is supported by adults who know them well — offering guidance, challenge, and care as they grow. Trust forms the foundation for meaningful learning.

Six people sitting around a wooden table in a kitchen having a conversation.

Youth Governance

Students participate in democratic meetings where community decisions are made collectively. Through shared responsibility and real voice, young people learn accountability, collaboration, and leadership.


Three people sitting at a patio table in a backyard, engaged in conversation. One woman has her legs crossed, another has short curly hair, and a man appears to be listening. There is a brick wall and fence in the background, sunlight illuminating the scene.

Restorative Practices

Conflict and mistakes are part of learning. At Embark Center, we address challenges through dialogue, accountability, and repair — building empathy and responsibility rather than punishment.

The result is young people who feel seen, capable, deeply themselves — and happy.

What’s Happening At Embark Center

  • We would love to help you schedule a personal tour and give you a chance to meet our dedicated staff and members. Please be in touch at 540-277-3172 or click here to schedule an in-person or virtual appointment. See you soon!

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