Now enrolling for

2025-2026!

Real learning. Real voice. Real community.

At Embark Center, young people ages 10–18 shape their days with curiosity, purpose, and real choice—whether that means diving deep into a personal passion, collaborating on a project, or helping guide the direction of the community. Housed in a historic building in downtown Leesburg, our center offers a flexible, supportive environment where students grow into self-directed learners at their own pace. It’s not a traditional school—but something more alive: learning powered by trust, agency, and connection.

Come see what education looks like when it’s truly student-led

Guiding Practices

Principles that shape how we live and learn together.

Self-Directed Learning

Life is learning. Autonomy is necessary.

Our members shape their own paths, following curiosity, goals, and authentic interests — supported by trust, not control.

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.

Mentoring

Support without control.

Relationships with staff, peers, and volunteers are the foundation of growth. Mentors guide, reflect, and walk alongside.

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

Sociocracy

We govern together.

We use a consent-based, circle-led decision-making model. Every member has a voice in shaping our space.

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

Repair, not punishment.

When harm happens, we respond with empathy, accountability, and community healing — not discipline alone.

Upcoming Events

  • 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!

  • Come to this virtual information session to find out how a learning path that honors autonomy, community, collaboration, and personal responsibility may be just what your child is looking for! Click here to register.

Circular badge with rainbow colors and the text 'SAFE SPACE ALLIANCE' in the center.
An infinity symbol with rainbow colors and the words 'celebrate' and 'newfounduversity' written along the loops.
Colorful rainbow heart design with the text "EQUALITY ALLIES" and the website equalityallies.org in the center.