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 2026-27 afterschool at SHADES?  Preregister today to add your children to our waiting list.  

Click the enrollment tab for more information.

SHADES would like to announce our intent to apply for the 2026 Lottery for Education Afterschool Programs (LEAPs) grant.  We welcome input and feedback.

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 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!

 

 

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

8 hours ago

🍂 Fall Fun at South Doyle Middle School SHADES! 🍁Our South Doyle Middle School students got creative with a fun fall craft, making their very own autumn leaf puppets! It's always great to see our students taking a break from their busy days to express their creativity, try something new, and enjoy time together.Middle school is an important time when students need positive outlets, meaningful connections, and opportunities to stay engaged. Afterschool programs provide a safe, structured environment where students can build friendships, discover interests, develop new skills, and make positive choices. When we keep students engaged, connected, and involved, we help keep them moving in the right direction!At SHADES, we believe that keeping the lights on afterschool means keeping opportunities, encouragement, and positive experiences within reach for every chil#shadesofdevelopmentp#AfterschoolAlliancei#southdoylemiddleschoolshadesH#afterschool4alll#easttnafterschoolc#afterschoolmatterst#knoxvilleafterschoolprogramo#tnafterschoolnetworkt#shadesH#AfterschoolWorksW#weheartafterschoolchool ... See MoreSee Less
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🌟 WE'RE HIRING! 🌟Join the SHADES of Development afterschool team! We have permanent, part-time and substitute positions available at our Knox County school sites. Enjoy a Monday–Friday schedule with no nights or weekends while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families!📧 Apply today: employment@shadesofdevelopment.org🌐 www.shadesofdevelopment.orgMake an impact. Inspire a child. Join SHADE#shadesofdevelopmentp#shadesH#KnoxvilleJobse#afterschool4alll#utkjobsK#knoxvilleemploymenty#afterschoolknoxvillejobseJobs ... See MoreSee Less
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We were honored to welcome Denzel Grant, Knoxville City Councilman for District 6, to Fair Garden SHADES for our Lights On Afterschool celebration!Councilman Grant took time to speak with our students and share the value of afterschool programs and the important role they play in strengthening our community. Afterschool is about so much more than providing care after the school day ends. It creates opportunities for learning, growth, connection, and positive relationships while supporting working families and helping build stronger communities.We are grateful for community leaders like Councilman Grant who recognize the impact of afterschool programs and take the time to show their support. When our community invests in children, we invest in a stronger future for everyone!Thank you for being part of our Lights On Afterschool celebration!#shadesofdevelopment #LightsOnAfterschool #fairgardenshades #shades #AfterschoolAlliance #easttnafterschool #afterschool4all #tnafterschoolnetwork #knoxvilleafterschoolprogram #AfterSchoolFun #knoxvillecitycouncil #buildingacommunity #AfterschoolWorks #afterschoolmatters ... 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.

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.

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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