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 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

21 hours ago

💚 Friendships That Grow After School 💚One of the most special parts of an afterschool program is watching friendships grow. 🥰When elementary students spend their afternoons together, they’re not just playing and learning—they’re building connections, making memories, and finding their people. From silly games and shared laughs to helping one another through challenges, these everyday moments create friendships that can truly last. Afterschool is a place where kids can be themselves, feel a sense of belonging, and discover that some of their favorite memories are made with friends.Because sometimes, the best part of the school day comes after the bell rings! #shadesofdevelopment #afterschoolalliance #easttnafterschool #SHADES #karnsshades #makingfriends #afterschoolmatters #lightsonafterschool #tnafterschoolnetwork #knoxvilleafterschoolprogram ... See MoreSee Less

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Shades of Development

2 days ago

🎉 New Hopewell Clubs Kick Off! 🎉Our Clubs started, and what a fun-filled day it was! 💛📚 Storybook Club read Our Class Is a Family and had a meaningful conversation about how SHADES can be family. Then, our kiddos drew pictures of their own families, creating the sweetest and most personal artwork! 🖍️❤️🎨 Meanwhile, Drawing Club got creative with an adorable ice cream sandwich drawing—what a sweet way to kick off the quarter! 🍦✨We’re so excited for all the fun, creativity, and learning ahead in our New Hopewell Clubs! 🌟#shadesofdevelopment #newhopewellshades #SHADES #afterschool4all #afterschoolalliance #tnafterschoolnetwork #easttnafterschoollalliance #afterschoolmatters #lightsonafterschool ... See MoreSee Less

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Shades of Development

2 days ago

Dramatic play areas are so much more than pretend—it’s a place where preschoolers learn through imagination! 🧑‍🍳👩‍🚒🩺Through pretend play, children build language and communication skills, creativity, problem-solving, cooperation, confidence, and emotional understanding. They practice taking turns, expressing ideas, working together, and exploring the world around them—all while having fun!Dramatic play gives children the freedom to create, imagine, and learn in their own unique way.🍌 At SHADES Afterschool, every day is a chance to have fun, get creative, and let your personality shine! This little banana brought big smiles and plenty of imagination to the afternoon. #shadesofdevelopment #afterschool4all #easttnafterschool #tnafterschoolalliance #SHADES #fortsandersshades #lightsonafterschool #afterschoolfun #afterschoolalliance #knoxvilleafterschool #afterschoolworks ... 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.

I want to help

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