SHADES of Development

We believe that children and families have the right to participate in after-school programs that support their beliefs, values, and goals.

Interest in 2025-26 afterschool at SHADES? Preregister today to add your children to our waiting list.

Click the enrollment tab for more information.

You can support SHADES by connecting your Kroger Plus Care to SHADES. Note: Connecting your card to SHADES does not affect your personal rewards in any way! Click the image to learn how!

"SHADES At Home" Schedule Website

SHADES OST Resource Blog

SHADES Keeps the Lights on After School!

SHADES of Development is a private non-profit organization that provides Extended Learning Programs during out-of-school-time to students in PreK through 8th grade in the Knoxville, Knox County area. Our programs are in a school-based settings and focus on an adventuring learning approach to support social, emotional and cognitive growth. Inquire today about enrollment. By shopping through Amazon Smile, you are making a difference for kids! Amazon Smile works with your Prime membership and you will receive the same great benefits. Thank you for making a difference!

Health and Insurance Resources for Parents

About Us

https://www.shadesofdevelopment.org/contact/We are a private non-profit organization dedicated to providing afterschool and summer programs to student in Knoxville.

OUR STORY

Locations

SHADES of Development is proud to be serving families and children at nine Knox County School locations.

OUR LOCATIONS

Parent Portal

Be sure to check out the SHADES Parent Portal to pay fees, update contact information, and access receipts.

PARENT PORTAL

FACEBOOK FEED

Shades of Development

9 hours ago

Tennessee families are feeling the squeeze — and it’s getting harder to ignore.When the state froze the Smart Steps Child Care Assistance Program last year (after losing $44.5M in federal funds), thousands of families who should qualify for help ended up on a waitlist instead.And here’s what that looks like in real life:Parents cutting work hours.Moms and dads leaving jobs entirely.Providers losing enrollment and income.Families turning to unsafe or unregulated care because they have no other choice.All while more than $190 million in federal TANF reserve dollars sit untouched.We talk a lot about how Tennessee’s economy depends on working families — but working families depend on child care. And right now, the math just isn’t adding up.The Fix Is Right There: SB 1921 / HB 2358This bill simply says:Use the federal dollars we already have to clear the Smart Steps waitlist and get eligible families the support they’ve been promised.No new taxes.No new spending.Just common-sense action.Why your voice mattersLegislators hear from lobbyists every day.They don’t always hear from parents, early educators, and community members living this crisis in real time.That’s why your story — even one sentence — makes a difference.Take Action (2–3 minutes)Head to TQEE’s Take Action page and send a quick message asking your state legislators to support SB 1921 / HB 2358. www.tqee.org/tell-policymakers-clear-the-child-care-waitlist/Let’s be loud for little kids — and for the families and educators who show up for them every single day.#Loudvoicesforlittlekids #takeaction #Earlycareandeducation #tennesseefamilies #TQEE ... See MoreSee Less

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Shades of Development

1 week ago

Just a reminder… as KCS remains closed due to weather, all SHADES locations remain closed as well. We hope to see everyone tomorrow! #shades #shadesofdevelopment ... See MoreSee Less

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Shades of Development

1 week ago

Knox County Schools and all SHADES locations will be closed again tomorrow, February 3rd. Stay safe and warm and we look forward to seeing everyone on Wednesday 💚 #shadesofdevelopment #shades ... See MoreSee Less

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NEWS

Stay Up to Date

Stay up to date about events, curriculum, in-service days, holidays, inclement weather days and much more. Be sure to visit the SHADES Event Calendar to be in the know about important dates.

Events Calendar

DONATE

Support SHADES

Choose from the numerous ways that you can support the efforts of SHADES of Development to provide afterschool and summer program to all kids in need of support during out-of-school time.

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Testimonials

Our Students Love Us

“My son has been going to SHADES for 5 years now and I have always been happy with SHADES, and more importantly my son has been happy.”

Estes Family - Brickey

“The single most important factor in my decision to use SHADES is the way they partner with Karns Elementary. Having knowledge of what goes on in the school and supporting school activities is paramount.”

Clark Family - Karns

“I have been so pleased with SHADES over the last 6 years. The staff has been fantastic. Our overall experience has been very positive and we definitely recommend the program to those entering elementary school or any new students.”

Smith Family - Powell

“SHADES puts my child and their safety first.. The staff makes me very comfortable discussing all areas concerning my child.”

Bowman Family - Sam E. Hill

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Enrollment

Locations