🌟 Celebrating Excellence in Teaching: Manuel De La Cruz
At Nexplore, we love recognizing instructors who go the extra mile to make learning meaningful, fun, and impactful. Each month, we shine a spotlight on a team member who embodies our mission and values—and this August, that spotlight is shining on Manuel! 🎉✨
From seamlessly transitioning programs like Minecraft to BrickLab, to supporting our sites with materials returns, Manuel consistently shows versatility, creativity, and dedication. His positivity and ability to adapt to every classroom make learning an engaging and joyful experience for students. 🌟
🙌 Thank You, Manuel!
We are so grateful for Manuel’s hard work and commitment to our programs. His enthusiasm and consistency truly bring the JOY of Learning to life—and that’s exactly what we celebrate with our Instructor of the Month!
Back to School with Good News: $1.3 Billion for After School Programs
One month ago, the U.S. Department of Education released an incredible $1.3 billion in 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) funding—a milestone that continues to shine as we enter the new school year. 🎉
This decision wasn’t just about money—it was about recognition. Recognition that after-school and summer programs are essential, that kids deserve opportunities beyond the classroom, and that communities thrive when these programs are strong. 🌟
📚 Why This Funding Matters
The release of $1.3 billion in CCLC funding means:
✅ Stability for program sites—ensuring staff can continue delivering high-quality learning experiences.
✅ Equity for kids in low-income and rural communities, where access to enrichment is most needed.
✅ Momentum as schools reopen, giving families peace of mind and kids the chance to explore, learn, and grow.
For many families, these programs are not just “after-school care.” They’re a lifeline that provides safety, academic support, social-emotional growth, and opportunities to explore STEM, Digital Tech, Arts, Life Skills, and Fitness. 💡
🏫 A Back-to-School Boost
At Nexplore, this funding brings renewed energy to both our new sites and the communities that have partnered with us for years. As kids return to classrooms, after-school programs will continue to:
🎨 Spark creativity through hands-on projects
❤️ Strengthen social and emotional skills
🏃♀️ Promote health, fitness, and well-being
🚀 Build confidence and inspire future success
This back-to-school season feels especially powerful, because we’re not just starting another year—we’re starting with stronger support and brighter opportunities for every child.
🤝 Moving Forward Together
While advocates continue to push for the release of remaining funds, today we celebrate how far we’ve come. This milestone shows that policymakers in Washington, DC understand the important role we all play in education and community growth.
At Nexplore, we’re proud to stand with our sites, families, and educators as we look ahead to a year full of possibilities. Together, let’s keep building momentum, strengthening relationships, and making this school year transformational. ✨
🌟 One month later, this milestone still reminds us: after-school matters. Kids matter. Communities matter.
Let’s celebrate, keep moving forward, and make this back-to-school season one of the best yet!
🚗 Little Engineers – First Automobile Engineer: Where Stories & Builds Come to Life!
At Nexplore, we believe that every child’s learning journey should be filled with joy, creativity, and hands-on fun. That’s exactly what Little Engineers – First Automobile Engineer delivers — — a playful STEM program designed for our youngest innovators in PreK3–K.
This STEM adventure 🚗📖 takes kids on an exciting journey, building a variety of vehicles — from racecars to rescue trucks — with large, colorful pieces made just for tiny hands.
🔧 What Makes Little Engineers Special?
Children follow a fun journey and build a variety of vehicles 🏎️🚒 — from racecars to rescue trucks — using large, colorful pieces 🌈 perfect for tiny hands. Each session is packed with “I built this!” pride, boosting confidence and creativity along the way.
Why Kids Love It ❤️
Woodcraft is a dynamic, hands-on program where kids get to design, build, and decorate their own wooden creations — from birdhouses and bridges to fun themed structures. But it’s more than just arts & crafts — it’s STEM, engineering, and problem-solving in action!
Through guided activities and tool safety instruction, kids will:
✨ Perfect introduction to STEM for PreK3 to K
🚗 Create a variety of vehicles — from racecars to rescue trucks
📖 Engaging journey that guides them step-by-step through the build
💡 Hands-on fun that inspires curiosity and creativity
💡 Why It’s More Than Just Building
Every build is an opportunity to strengthen fine motor skills, develop problem-solving abilities, and encourage spatial thinking 🧠. The storytelling element makes learning feel like play — keeping kids engaged from start to finish.
Whether it’s designing, assembling, or imagining new adventures, Little Engineers turns curiosity into hands-on achievements. 🛠️
🎯 Ready to Bring Little Engineers to Your Site?
🌟 Celebrating Excellence in Teaching: Erik Lutz
At Nexplore, we recognize educators who lead with heart, dedication, and a deep commitment to student growth. Every month, we spotlight one outstanding instructor who brings the Joy of Learning to life—and this July, we’re proud to celebrate Erik Lutz as our Instructor of the Month! 🎉👏
Erik has been making an incredible impact at Trailblazer Elementary, where his attention to each student’s needs, especially those requiring additional support, has not gone unnoticed. His one-on-one approach, calm presence, and natural encouragement help every child feel seen, supported, and motivated to do their best.
Even amidst big moments in his personal life—like the week before his own wedding—Erik stepped up to substitute when needed. His dedication to his students and his team truly embodies the Nexplore spirit. 💙
👏 Thank You, Erik!
Your calm leadership, tireless support, and genuine love for teaching are deeply appreciated by the Nexplore team. We’re so lucky to have you—and we’re cheering you on in both your career and your new chapter in life! 🎊💍
Future-ready fun: career-focused programs that youth love ✨
At Nexplore, we’re not just teaching skills — we’re sparking futures.
Every program is designed to inspire, challenge, and equip youth with the tools they need to explore the careers of tomorrow — all while having serious fun today.
👩💻 Real Skills. Real Careers. Real Joy.
Whether they’re coding a video game, designing 3D models, launching a business, or flying drones — Nexplore students are doing more than just playing. They’re gaining confidence, solving problems, building teamwork, and discovering what they’re passionate about.
Here’s a look at just some of our hands-on, career-connected programs:
⚛︎ STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering & Math come to life through real-world exploration:
➡️ 3D Printing – Create+: From concept to creation — design, model, and build like an engineer.
➡️ Chemistry: Hands-on experiments spark scientific thinking and curiosity.
➡️ Electronics – Gadgets: Learn circuits and electrical components through fun and practical projects.
➡️ Drones: Explore the science and tech behind drone flight and aerial navigation.
💻 Digital Tech
Science, Technology, Engineering & Math come to life through real-world exploration:
➡️ Claymation: Create stop-motion animation using clay characters and original scripts.
➡️ Coding with Micro:bit: Explore coding and electronics with a pocket-sized computer that brings students’ ideas to life — from animations to real-world applications.
➡️ Coding with Scratch: Program interactive stories and games while learning logic and creativity.
➡️ Cyber: Understand cybersecurity basics and digital responsibility.
➡️ Electronic Game Design: Design, code and test playable video games from scratch.
➡️ Esports: Develop strategy, teamwork, and communication through competitive gaming.
➡️ Podcasting: Plan, write, and record original audio shows with a professional touch.
➡️ Robotics with Edison: Code, build and problem-solve using real robotics.
➡️ Video Production: Use real tools to storyboard, shoot, and edit digital content.
➡️ Virtual Reality: Step into immersive worlds while creating and exploring 3D environments.
✨ Life Skills
Science, Technology, Engineering & Math come to life through real-world exploration:
➡️ Business – Entrepreneurship: Learn how to build a business from the ground up — with real-world tools and creative thinking.
➡️ Business – Project Pioneer: Step into the entrepreneurial mindset through innovation, collaboration, and purpose-driven projects.
➡️ Character Development: Strengthen emotional intelligence, kindness, and resilience.
➡️ Cooking & Nutrition: Discover healthy habits while learning to cook fun, simple meals.
➡️ Fashion – Entrepreneurship: Combine creativity and business as students design their own collections.
➡️ Finance: Understand money basics, budgeting, and financial decision-making.
➡️ Leadership & Teamwork: Build collaboration, confidence, and communication.
➡️ Woodcraft: Build and design with real tools while practicing craftsmanship.
🌟 Why Career Focus Matters
These aren’t just afterschool classes — they’re launchpads. By giving youth the space to explore careers early, we help them dream bigger, plan smarter, and feel more confident navigating their future.
Because when youth discover their WHY, learning becomes an adventure.
🔍 The Earlier They Explore, the Brighter They Dream
Career-connected learning gives students a sense of purpose in the classroom and beyond. It allows them to see the real-world impact of what they’re learning, and it opens doors to possibilities they may have never considered. When youth realize that their passions — whether in science, storytelling, leadership, or design — can become part of their future, their motivation skyrockets.
At Nexplore, we blend inspiration with exploration, helping every student see that their potential is limitless — and their journey is just beginning.
Summer Fun & Learning at Bazoline E. Usher Elementary – Atlanta!
This past June, Nexplore brought a month full of exploration, creativity, and hands-on fun to Bazoline E. Usher/Collier Heights Elementary School in Atlanta, Georgia! From June 2 to 27, kids in grades K through 5 discovered new passions, made new friends, and experienced the joy of learning in the most exciting ways.
⚛︎ STEM
From coding robots in RoboCoding to building with real tools in Makers Club, and exploring the natural world in Nature Watch, and bringing ideas to life in 3D Printing, campers dove into science and technology in fun, accessible ways.
🎨 Arts
Kids brought their ideas to life with Pottery, Fashion – Design, Art Rods, and Strawbees, giving campers the freedom to explore their unique artistic voices.
✨ Life Skills
Programs like Drama, Magic, and BrickLAB – Architecture helped build confidence, creativity, and critical thinking—life lessons they’ll carry beyond the classroom.
🏃🏻♂️➡️ Fitness
Basketball, Soccer, Dance, and classic Physical Education kept kids active, energized, and learning about teamwork and coordination.
Inspiring Moments Every Day
Throughout the month, students didn’t just participate — they truly discovered. Campers rotated through activities daily, giving each child the chance to explore new fields and develop a strong foundation for future learning.
Whether it was their first time using a 3D printer or performing a magic trick, every day was a celebration of curiosity and creativity.
A Lasting Impact, Backed by Data
Our mission at Nexplore is to foster the joy of learning—and the feedback says it all:
✅ 63% of students said they want to enroll in Nexplore again.
✅ 66% felt more confident and ready to try new things.
✅ 70% gained new skills they believe will help them in the future.
✅ 65% were inspired to explore careers related to what they learned.
✅ 73% said their instructors provided high-quality teaching that helped them grow.
What the Camp Director Had to Say
“This summer, we partnered with Nexplore to provide enrichment activities as part of the Power Up Summer Program. Their team offered a range of structured, hands-on learning experiences that supported student engagement in a meaningful way.
The activities were well-organized and aligned with our goal of keeping students actively involved during the instructional day. We appreciate Nexplore’s contribution to creating a positive and engaging environment for our scholars.”
Shaughna Robinson, Ed.S
Usher-Collier Elementary School
📸 Moments That Made This Summer Unforgettable 🧩
🌟 Celebrating Excellence in Teaching: Dawood Marion
At Nexplore, we love recognizing instructors who go the extra mile to make learning meaningful, fun, and impactful. Each month, we shine a spotlight on a team member who embodies our mission and values—and this June, that spotlight is shining on Dawood Marion from the East Bay Region of California! 🎉✨
Whether he’s leading a class, supporting fellow instructors, or behind the camera capturing joyful classroom moments, Dawood does it all with heart, flexibility, and an incredible connection with students. Just ask the kids at Caliber—they absolutely love him! 💙
🙌 Thank You, Dawood!
We are so grateful for Dawood’s contributions to our programs and his unwavering dedication to our students. His energy, talent, and care make a true difference—and that’s exactly what we celebrate with our Instructor of the Month!
Back to school, back to fun: Plan your school year with Nexplore!
The new school year is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time for sites to start planning a year full of discovery, creativity, and hands-on learning. At Nexplore, we offer 100+ engaging programs across STEM, Digital Tech, Arts, Life Skills, and Fitness — and we’ve just added even more exciting options to our catalog!
Whether you’re planning for Fall, Winter, or the entire school year, our enrichment programs are built to inspire, empower, and ignite kids’ curiosity in every session.
What’s New at Nexplore? 🚨
We’re always evolving — and this year, we’ve introduced some brand new programs that kids (and educators!) are already loving:
The Nexplore Difference 💡
We know every site, school, and student is unique — and our programs are designed to meet those needs with flexibility and heart.
At Nexplore, our mission is to foster the joy of learning through enrichment opportunities so that all children may discover and explore a passion that drives them to excellence.
What sets us apart?
✅ Project-Based Programs – Kids learn by doing, not just watching.
✅ High-Quality In-Person Instruction – Our trained educators bring energy and expertise.
✅ 100+ Program Variety – There’s something for every interest, age, and learning style.
✅ Customer Obsession – We’re here to make your programming smooth, impactful, and stress-free.
Our Core Commitments 🌟
🧭 Consistency: Our trained instructors and structured curriculum ensure reliable and engaging learning experiences.
🎓 Competency: We provide high-quality instruction that cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
💬 Communication: We prioritize clear and responsive communication to address your needs promptly.
🎨 Creativity: Our diverse programs encourage innovation and creative expression.
💙 Community: We actively involve students and staff in shaping programs that meet the unique needs of your community.
What You Can Expect as a Valuable Partner?🤝
📊 End-of-Course Impact Reports: Detailed assessments to measure student progress and program effectiveness.
📰 Newsletters: Regular updates showcasing program highlights and student achievements.
🎉 Showcases Opportunities for students to display their work and celebrate their learning journey.
Our Objectives 🎯
🙋 Engagement and Self-Efficacy: Encouraging active participation and confidence in learning.
📚 Impactful Learning: Delivering meaningful educational experiences.
💼 Career Exploration: Introducing students to various fields and potential career paths.
🎯 Explore Our Enrichment Options 🧩
🍂 Build, Create & Learn this Fall with Woodcraft!
Fall is the perfect season to spark creativity, focus, and hands-on learning — and Nexplore’s Woodcraft program delivers all that and more! Whether kids are sanding, painting, or hammering, every session is a chance to build confidence and cool wooden projects they’ll be proud to take home.
What is Woodcraft?🛠️
Woodcraft is a dynamic, hands-on program where kids get to design, build, and decorate their own wooden creations — from birdhouses and bridges to fun themed structures. But it’s more than just arts & crafts — it’s STEM, engineering, and problem-solving in action!
Through guided activities and tool safety instruction, kids will:
🛠️ Learn to safely use real tools
🧠 Develop spatial reasoning and planning skills
🎨 Express creativity through design and decoration
🔍 Explore STEM concepts in an engaging, tangible way
🪵 Take home projects they can proudly say, “I built that!”
Why Woodcraft is Perfect for Fall 🍁
Far from being a time to slow down, fall marks the true beginning—the moment to roll up our sleeves and dive into meaningful work. That’s why we believe Woodcraft is the perfect program to kick off the school year.
In a world where AI unlocks unimaginable possibilities but also redefines the future of work, hands-on, skills-based learning is more critical than ever.
At Nexplore, we are committed to advancing vocational programs that nurture creativity, problem-solving, and craftsmanship—skills that not only withstand automation but also elevate what it means to be human in a rapidly evolving world.
🍂 Ready to Craft Something Awesome?
Celebrating Excellence in Teaching: Mosi Zargarchi
At Nexplore, we believe that outstanding educators don’t just teach—they uplift, empower, and create lasting impact. Every month, we proudly recognize one instructor who exemplifies the values of our mission and brings the Joy of Learning to life .
This May, we are thrilled to celebrate Mosi Zium as our Instructor of the Month! 🎉👏
From the classroom to the team dynamic, Mosi radiates passion, professionalism, and positivity. His ability to connect, lead, and inspire makes him an invaluable part of the Nexplore family.
🙌 Thank You, Mosi!
We’re beyond grateful for Mosi’s contributions to our students, his fellow instructors, and the overall Nexplore experience. His dedication truly embodies what it means to be a Nexplore Instructor of the Month.