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

5 hours ago

There’s something special about the friendships that grow in afterschool programs 💚Between homework help, playground adventures, and everyday moments like this one, kids find more than just a place to spend their afternoons — they find their people. Watching these two sit side by side, arms around each other, reminds us that connection, kindness, and belonging are just as important as any lesson learned.Afterschool programs aren’t just about activities. They’re about building confidence, learning empathy, and creating friendships that can last a lifetime.Here’s to the buddies who become best friends and the safe spaces that help them grow together. #shadesofdevelopment #ftsandersshades #afterschool4all #easttnafterschool #tnafterschoolnetework #afterschoolmatters #friendshipgoals #afterschoolalliance #SHADES ... See MoreSee Less

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Shades of Development

1 day ago

The Knoxville Garden Alliance came to the Fort today and taught us all about different seeds and what they’ll grow into 🌱🌼We loved learning how something so small can turn into beautiful flowers, fresh veggies, and thriving plants. Thanks for helping us grow our knowledge! #shadesofdevelopment #ftsandersshades #afterschoolalliance #easttnaftersxhool #afterschool4all #tnafterschoolnetwork #afterschoolmatters #afterschoolfun #lightsonafterschool #weheartafterschool #knoxvillegardenalliance #learningnewthings #SHADES ... See MoreSee Less

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Shades of Development

1 day ago

Having fun building letters and words with play dough at Pond Gap SHADES! ✏️Our students are getting creative while strengthening their literacy skills—rolling, shaping, and spelling their way to success! From practicing sight words to building their names letter by letter, this hands-on activity helps improve fine motor skills, letter recognition, and confidence in reading and writing.There’s nothing better than learning through play and seeing those proud smiles when a word comes together! 💚📚We love watching our friends grow, create, and have fun every afternoon! #shadesofdevelopment #afterschoolfun #pondgapshades #handsonlearning #afterschool4all #literacymatters #afterschoolalliance #easttnafterschool #tnafterschoolnetwork #SHADES #lightsonafterschool ... 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