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

9 hours ago

📷 A Little Creativity, a Lot of Imagination!Our Re-Create the Picture Club brought a famous work of art to life with their own fun and creative twist! From recreating the expressions and poses to setting the scene, these students showed off their creativity, teamwork, and attention to detail. We love seeing our students think outside the box, explore their artistic sides, and have fun while learning. Who knew recreating a masterpiece could be this much fun? Great job, artists! 👏#shadesofdevelopment #southdoylemiddleshades #clubtime #AfterschoolAlliance #easttnafterschool #afetrschoolfun #weheartafterschool #afterschool4all #tnafterschoolnetwork #shades ... See MoreSee Less

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Shades of Development

1 day ago

🧩 Little Pieces, BIG Learning!Puzzles are so much more than a fun activity! As children search for the right pieces, match shapes, and put the picture together, they are developing important skills that support their growth and learning.From problem-solving, critical thinking, and concentration to patience, perseverance, fine motor skills, and teamwork, every puzzle piece provides an opportunity to learn.Sometimes the biggest lessons come from putting the smallest pieces together! #shadesofdevelopment #AfterschoolAlliance #fairgardenshades #afterschool4all #shades #bettertogether #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #easttnafterschool #tnafterschoolnetwork ... See MoreSee Less

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Shades of Development

2 days ago

🗳️ Today's students are tomorrow's voters!Teaching children about the importance of voting and civic responsibility starts long before they reach voting age. By introducing them to the election process and creating mock voting stations, we give students a hands-on opportunity to experience how voting works and why every voice matters.From learning about ballots and making their selections to casting their votes, these activities help children understand the value of participation, thoughtful decision-making, and having a voice in their community.Mock elections turn an important civic lesson into an engaging, memorable learning experience while helping build an understanding of the responsibilities that come with citizenship.We aren't just teaching children how to vote. We're helping them understand why their voices matter and empowering the next generation to become informed, engaged citizens.Because building tomorrow's leaders starts with the les#shadesofdevelopment #CivicEducationv#futurevotersi#HandsOnLearningr#EveryVoiceMattersa#teachthemyoungc#AfterschoolAllianceo#easttnafterschooll#tnafterschoolnetworko#weheartafterschoolt#shadeseHeartAfterschool #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.

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