Students engaged in hands-on learning at R.O.E. Academy
Fall 2026 Cohort100% Free Program

R.O.E. Academy

Learn. Explore. Grow.

R.O.E. Academy gives rising 6th graders real-world experiences, leadership development, and the academic and personal growth they need to thrive — at absolutely no cost to families.

Program Overview

Building Tomorrow's Leaders, Today

R.O.E. Academy is a free, cohort-based program that runs from September through March, designed specifically for rising 6th graders in the Memphis area. Over seven months, scholars gain the real-world exposure, confidence, leadership skills, and future readiness that set them apart.

This is not a traditional after-school program. R.O.E. Academy is an immersive experience that meets students where they are and takes them where they never imagined they could go — through hands-on workshops, field experiences, college visits, and meaningful mentorship.

R.O.E. Academy operates under Rich Off Education, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Black and Hispanic youth through education, advocacy, and community engagement.

Quick Facts

  • September – March (7 months)
  • Limited to ~15 scholars per cohort
  • 2 Saturdays per month + weekly virtual check-ins
  • Designed for rising 6th graders
  • 100% free for accepted families
How It Works

Program Structure

Our program is built on three pillars that keep students engaged, supported, and growing throughout the cohort.

In-Person Saturdays

2× per month

Full-day Saturday sessions packed with hands-on learning, field experiences, college visits, and team-building. These are the days scholars look forward to most.

Weekly Virtual Check-Ins

Every week between Saturdays

Short, consistent virtual sessions that keep scholars connected, accountable, and supported. Check-ins reinforce what was learned and prepare students for upcoming experiences.

Learning Model

Two types of Saturdays

Each Saturday alternates between Learning Lab Days (STEM, AI, leadership, skill-building) and Exploration Days (field trips, college tours, career exposure, museums).

A Day With Us

What Happens on a Saturday?

Every Saturday is designed to be engaging, purposeful, and fun. Here is what a typical day looks like for our scholars.

9:00 – 9:30 AM

Welcome & Team Building

9:30 – 11:00 AM

Learning Lab (STEM / Leadership)

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Exploration / Field Trip

1:00 – 1:30 PM

Lunch & Connection

1:30 – 3:00 PM

Reflection & Leadership Session

Two Experiences, One Mission

Two Types of Saturdays

Academy Day

Learning Lab

  • STEM & AI workshops
  • Leadership development sessions
  • Collaborative projects & presentations
  • Skill-building activities

Experience Day

Exploration

  • Field trips around Memphis
  • College campus visits
  • Career exposure & guest speakers
  • Museum and cultural site tours
The R.O.E. Difference

What Students Gain

Real-World Experiences

Field trips, travel, and hands-on learning that bring education to life beyond the classroom.

STEM & AI Exposure

Workshops in science, technology, engineering, and artificial intelligence that prepare students for the future.

Confidence & Public Speaking

Opportunities to present, lead discussions, and find their voice in supportive settings.

Leadership & Teamwork

Collaborative projects and team-building that develop strong leaders and communicators.

Preparation for High School

Academic readiness, study skills, and the mindset to excel in their next chapter.

Cultural Awareness

Deep exploration of identity, heritage, and the diverse world around them.

Eligibility

Who Can Join?

R.O.E. Academy is designed for students who are ready for something more — young people who are curious, motivated, and eager to grow.

  • Rising 6th Graders

    Students entering 6th grade in Fall 2026 are eligible to apply.

  • Students Ready to Grow

    We welcome scholars who are eager to challenge themselves, try new things, and step outside their comfort zone.

  • Students Who Want More Opportunities

    If you believe your child deserves access to experiences that most programs do not offer, R.O.E. Academy is for them.

At a Glance

Program Details

DurationSeptember 2026 – March 2027
In-Person Sessions2 Saturdays per month (full day)
Virtual Check-InsWeekly (between Saturdays)
Cohort SizeLimited to ~15 scholars
Cost100% Free
LocationMemphis, TN area
Key Dates

Application Timeline

Mark your calendar. Spots are limited and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

April 4Soft Launch
April 5Interest Form Opens
May 15Early Access
May 20Applications Open
June 1Application Deadline

This Is Not Just a Program. This Is an Opportunity.

R.O.E. Academy gives your child access to experiences, mentors, and skills that will shape who they become. Spots are limited. The time to act is now.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submission is strongly encouraged.

Application / Interest Form

The application form will be embedded here. In the meantime, you can reach us directly:

Questions? Contact us at [email protected]