What makes a public space inviting? Students will explore libraries, bookstores, parks, and gathering places throughout downtown Raleigh before designing a cozy, community-centered book nook. Along the way, they'll learn principles of architecture, interior design, budgeting, and user experience while creating scale models and presenting their ideas to local stakeholders.

Meets Tuesdays from 5:30 - 7:00pm.

Fee covers a 10-week course.

Photography meets urban exploration.

From hidden details to iconic landmarks, students will document the people, places, and moments that make Raleigh unique. Through weekly photography challenges, they'll strengthen both their camera skills and their ability to tell compelling visual stories. The experience concludes with a professionally curated downtown gallery exhibit celebrating each student's creative journey.

No fancy camera required.

Meets Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:00pm.

Fee covers 10 consecutive weeks from Oct 15th - Dec 17th.

Future Cities invites students to explore how cities work and how they can be improved. Through investigating challenges and listening to community voices, students will design thoughtful solutions to real-world problems. Examples include designing an ideal teen space, reimagining an area of downtown, and planning a sustainable neighborhood.

Meets Monday and Wednesday from 1:00 til 3:45pm.

*Semester course. Fee represents amount due each month for 4 months.

The Pathfinder Academy is an approved ESA+ vendor.

Designed for grades 6-8, students in this Journey explore the stories, places, and people that shape downtown Raleigh. We will uncover hidden stories through walking tours, art, public spaces, and interviewing local people. Students will then create media to share with the community, such as a podcast, short film, or photo essay.

Meets Monday and Wednesday from 9:00am til 11:45am.

*Semester course. Fee represents amount due each month for 4 months.

The Pathfinder Academy is an ESA+ approved vendor.