Why Embark Center?

What makes Embark different?

This isn’t a school with bells and block schedules. It’s a learning environment powered by trust, curiosity, and freedom. Walk in, and you might see students building, debating, reflecting, leading, or laughing. And none of it is by accident.

Let’s start with what you might see in a day.

Each day at Embark is shaped by choice, connection, and creativity. There’s no fixed schedule or one-size-fits-all plan. Instead, students decide how to spend their time—with support from mentors and trust from the community. They build, reflect, explore, collaborate, rest, and lead.

Three children sorting and handling various coins and small objects at a table, with one holding a smartphone, in a room with windows, a door, and bookshelves.

Classes and Conversations

Some students create or join small group classes sparked by shared interests on topics like ancient civilizations, psychology, storytelling, or current issues. Others find themselves in spontaneous conversations that turn into meaningful learning: asking big questions, exchanging ideas, or just thinking out loud. Whether planned or informal, these moments are guided by curiosity, not curriculum, and offer space for everyone to engage in their own way.

Four young people walking on a street in front of a mural on a brick building, with trees and houses in the background.

Learning in the Real World

Some head into town—grabbing a coffee, exploring the creek, or connecting with local shopkeepers. Others venture further: to museums, trails, farms, or wherever curiosity leads—on their own or as part of a group.

A group of six people, including children and an adult, gathered around a dining table making dough together in a kitchen.

Projects and Passion Work

From Dungeons and Dragons to painting to learning Korean, students do things that matter to them—individually and collaboratively. They also take part in running the center through democratic governance and work together to address conflict and strengthen relationships through restorative practices.

A young girl with curly hair reading a book while sitting on a beige armchair, next to a black and white dog lying on the wooden floor. In the background, there's a red floral armchair and white shelves with books and decorative items.

Quiet and Reflection

Some moments are about stillness: journaling, thinking, checking in with a mentor, or simply resting in a cozy space. In contrast to the pace and pressure of traditional classrooms—where productivity and outcomes often take center stage—these quiet times create space to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with ourselves and what matters most.

Our Principles in Practice

What guides everything you just saw?
At Embark, the rhythm of our days is shaped by deeper commitments—values we live, not just list. Below, you’ll find the core principles that inform how we learn, grow, and connect as a community.

Autonomy and Personal Responsibility

A young girl with long brown hair is sitting at a table, looking intently at a tablet device with her hand on her chin, in front of a background with a window.

We believe every young person has the right to direct their own learning and daily life. In a space where their voices are respected and their choices matter, students learn to take responsibility—for themselves and their impact on the community.

Democracy

Group of young people in a room, some sitting on chairs and a bench, one writing on a whiteboard, and others using laptops or standing. The room has colorful chairs, a stone wall, and a laptop on the floor.

We share power and responsibility. Students and staff use sociocracy—a consent-based form of democracy—to make decisions together in weekly meetings. Everyone’s voice matters, and roles are filled through nominations and elections.

Collective Care

Three children interacting with a snake held by a young man, in a living room with sunlight coming through windows.

We build a culture where everyone feels safe to be themselves and take meaningful risks. Through shared responsibility, students and staff support each other’s growth—personal, social, and emotional. We practice empathy, navigate differences, and resolve conflict using restorative practices that center care for both individuals and the community.

Possibilities

Three people jumping joyfully into the ocean, with two women on either side and a man in the middle, all wearing swimsuits and surrounded by clear blue water.

Learning at Embark is driven by curiosity, relationships, and real-world experiences—not forced academics. Classes, workshops, field trips, and governance circles are co-created by students, but just as much growth happens through play, exploration, and spontaneous discovery—whether in our vibrant space or around downtown Leesburg. Every day is an opportunity to pursue what matters most.

Family Support

Two men sitting on couches in a room, smiling and talking. One is wearing a black Superman t-shirt and blue shorts, holding a remote. The other is in a black t-shirt and jeans, holding a paper plate, with a vacuum cleaner in the background.

We know self-directed learning can feel unfamiliar—for young people and their families. That’s why we support parents and caregivers through family meetings, parent circles, and community events. When families are informed and engaged, our whole community grows stronger.

Unity in Diversity

Four young women sit behind a table at an outdoor pride event, smiling and waving rainbow flags. The table is decorated with rainbow-colored fabric and topped with various candies and sunscreen bottles.

We honor the unique identities, experiences, and abilities of every member of our community. With empathy and compassion, we work to create a space where everyone is seen, respected, and uplifted. We are committed to continuous learning and to building an environment rooted in belonging for all.

Embark Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, religion, or family structure in any of its programs or activities.

Ready to explore Embark Center for your self?

Schedule a visit or get in touch - we’d love to meet you!

📅 Some of the Happenings at Embark Center

Our schedule is always evolving—just like our students. From collaborative classes and field trips to community meetings and creative workshops, this calendar highlights some of the opportunities available each week. Check back regularly to see what’s coming up!