Learning That Honors Young People’s Voices

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Real learning. Real voice. Real community.

At Embark Center, young people ages 10–18 shape their days with curiosity, purpose, and real choice—whether that means diving deep into a personal passion, collaborating on a project, or helping guide the direction of the community. Housed in a historic building in downtown Leesburg, our center offers a flexible, supportive environment where students grow into self-directed learners at their own pace. It’s not a traditional school—but something more alive: learning powered by trust, agency, and connection.

Come see what education looks like when it’s truly student-led.

Now enrolling. Flexible start times.

Curious to know more?

Guiding Practices

Principles that shape how we live and learn together.

Self-Directed Learning

Life is learning. Autonomy is necessary.

Our members shape their own paths, following curiosity, goals, and authentic interests — supported by trust, not control.

Two people crouch around a fire pit, lighting a small fire with twigs and leaves, outdoors on gravel ground with camping chairs in the background.

Mentoring

Support without control.

Relationships with staff, peers, and volunteers are the foundation of growth. Mentors guide, reflect, and walk alongside.

Six people sitting around a wooden table in a kitchen having a conversation.

Youth Governance

We govern together.

We use a consent-based, circle-led decision-making model. Every member has a voice in shaping our space.

Three people sitting at a patio table in a backyard, engaged in conversation. One woman has her legs crossed, another has short curly hair, and a man appears to be listening. There is a brick wall and fence in the background, sunlight illuminating the scene.

Restorative Practices

Repair, not punishment.

When harm happens, we respond with empathy, accountability, and community healing — not discipline alone.

Upcoming Events

  • Please join us for a free discussion with Dr. Bill Stixrud, PhD and Ned Johnson, bestselling co-authors of The Self Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives, 

    They will be sharing practical, research-informed strategies to build kids’ motivation, resilience, and confidence — at home, in school, and in support settings

    They will also be signing pre-purchased books.

    Click here to register. We hope to see you there!

  • We would love to help you schedule a personal tour and give you a chance to meet our dedicated staff and members. Please be in touch at 540-277-3172 or click here to schedule an in-person or virtual appointment. See you soon!

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Colorful rainbow heart design with the text "EQUALITY ALLIES" and the website equalityallies.org in the center.