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Celebrating 15 Years of Wisdom Academy: Shaping the Future of After-School Learning

As Wisdom Academy marks its 15th anniversary, it takes a bold step towards redefining the value of after-school education. With the mission of enabling children to gain confidence today for a brighter tomorrow, the academy has introduced a new after-school standard that aims to transform these hours into valuable learning time connected to their future careers. This initiative includes three specialized course systems and the integration of AI and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).

Reimagining After-School Time

The growing demand for after-school care is evident with the increase in dual-income households and diverse working styles. Wisdom Academy recognizes that after-school hours should not merely be a waiting period for children until their parents return home. In an ever-evolving society, children must develop the skills to tackle “unanswerable questions,” fostering their independence and critical thinking. Thus, the academy is reframing after-school education as a time ripe for profound learning experiences.

Three New Standards to Nurture Children’s Futures

In its efforts, Wisdom Academy introduces three innovative standards designed to nurture children's capacity for a successful future:

1. Booster Education

This foundational approach focuses on fostering non-cognitive skills during the critical development years of ages 3 to 9. The program emphasizes important traits such as resilience, concentration, emotional management, and collaboration. Wisdom Academy categorizes this period as one for booster (introductory) education, offering a structured pathway that adapts to various growth stages—from establishing a foundation of self-awareness in preschoolers to equipping older children with practical skills for the future.

2. Flexible Course Selection

Wisdom Academy is revolutionizing the traditional separation of after-school care and extracurricular activities. Rather than treating them as isolated segments, the new course structure allows children to choose from three primary areas of study that align with their interests:

• - SEL Course: This course emphasizes emotional and social learning, combining activities that promote empathy, emotional regulation, and well-being.
• - AI Learning Course: Targeting children's understanding of AI, this course nurtures curiosity, creativity, and self-direction, all essential for navigating a tech-driven world.
• - Global Course: A focus on English language skills alongside intercultural understanding, this course empowers children by broadening their perspectives and fostering a global mindset.

3. Select 4 Plan

Aiming to accommodate modern work schedules, the new Select 4 plan gives parents the flexibility to select any four days of the month for their child's attendance, breaking away from the rigid fixed-day schedules that often limit participation. This plan is particularly beneficial for families with irregular work hours or those trying to coordinate with other extracurricular activities.

Tracking Growth Progress with Care

Wisdom Academy understands that non-cognitive growth can’t be easily quantified; thus, it has implemented a Progress Report system. This tool provides insights into emotional development, social interactions, and personal growth through tangible examples, reinforcing a partnership between educators and parents.

A Message from the Leadership

Yoshikazu Suzuki, president of Wisdom Academy, emphasizes the need to rethink after-school care, enhancing it from a mere childcare service to a space for exploration and growth. By cultivating independence and self-motivation in children, Wisdom Academy aims to foster essential leadership qualities that will prepare them to carve their futures. The journey towards establishing a new education standard is grounded in promoting inquiry, emotional intelligence, and global awareness.

As the academy gears up to implement these innovative programs, the official launch is scheduled for April 1, 2026, with pre-registration beginning early next year. Wisdom Academy is ready to pave the way for children to think critically, select their paths, and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.