How is Empowered Paths different from traditional schools?
Empowered Paths focuses on real-world life skills, personal growth, and emotional resilience rather than standardized academics. Our programs are designed to empower children by teaching them essential skills like problem-solving, confidence-building, emotional intelligence, and effective communication—tools they can use to navigate life’s challenges. Unlike traditional schools, which follow a set curriculum, our classes are flexible, interactive, and tailored to individual needs, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. We prioritize hands-on learning, small group settings, and a focus on personal development, ensuring that every child gains the confidence and skills they need to thrive in all aspects of life.
Where are the classes held?
Classes are held at various businesses and schools throughout McHenry County. Location vary and are based on class size, teacher availability and more.
What ages do you offer classes for?
Ages 3-20.
What types of life skills classes do you offer?
Cooking, car maintenance, budgeting, emotional resilience, mental health, Nutrition, fitness, investing, entrepreneurship, and more! We are always looking to expand the classes we offer.
How do I know which class is right for my child?
Choosing the right class for your child depends on their individual needs, interests, and areas of growth. If you’re unsure which class is the best fit, consider what skills your child could benefit from most—whether it’s emotional regulation, communication, leadership, problem-solving, or social skills. You can also reach out to us for guidance, and we’ll be happy to help you select the best class based on your child’s strengths and goals. Check out our class page
Who teaches the classes? Are they qualified?
Our classes at Empowered Paths are taught by experienced and passionate instructors who are dedicated to helping children build essential life skills. Each instructor has a background in education, coaching, child development, or related fields, ensuring they have the knowledge and expertise to create a supportive and engaging learning environment. We carefully select our teachers based on their qualifications, experience working with children, and commitment to empowering young minds. We aim to provide high-quality educational and impactful instruction, helping every child gain the confidence and skills they need to thrive.
Do instructors undergo background checks?
Yes! Every instructor undergoes a background check and interview process, including reference checks, before being cleared to teach classes.
How do I register my child for a class?
Please visit our class page and follow the link to register.
Can I sign my child up for multiple classes at once?
Yes! You can absolutely sign your child up for multiple classes at once. We are working on a punch card option to make multiple class sign-ups easier. For now, you have to register individually for each class.
Do you offer sibling discounts?
Yes! We offer a 10% discount for each additional sibling.
Yes! We offer a 10% discount for each additional sibling.
What happens if my child misses a class? Is there a makeup policy? Do you offer refunds?
We understand that life happens! If your child misses a class, Empowered Paths offers options to help them stay on track. Depending on the class, we may provide makeup sessions, class recordings, or alternative resources to ensure they don’t miss out on important learning. Our makeup policy varies by program, so please check with us for specific details.
As for refunds, we do our best to accommodate families, but our policy depends on the timing of the cancellation and the class format. Generally, we offer credits or partial refunds for cancellations made in advance, but missed classes without notice prior to class start time ARE NOT refundable. If you have any concerns, please reach out to us—we’re happy to work with you!
Can parents stay and observe classes?
At Empowered Paths, we want children to feel comfortable, confident, and fully engaged in their learning experience. While we generally encourage a drop-off environment to foster independence, we understand that some parents may want to observe. Depending on the class, we may allow limited parent observation on a case-by-case basis or offer special parent participation sessions. If you’d like to stay and observe, please reach out to us in advance so we can discuss the best approach for your child and the class setting.
Are classes interactive and hands-on?
It depends on the class! We strive to make all classes interactive and hands-on to engage students of all ages and levels.
What payment methods do you accept?
All payments are processed through Square, which accepts debit cards, all major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Afterpay, and Cash app
Do you offer financial assistance or scholarships for low-income families?
Yes, we do! More information, including a link to our scholarship application, can be found by clicking HERE.
How can local schools and businesses partner with Empowered Paths to host classes?
Please visit our Partner with Us page and fill out the form provided.
Can I suggest a class topic or recommend an instructor?
Yes! We love feedback and suggestions from parents as we strive to offer classes that you and your children find interesting, educational, and valuable. Please visit our Parent Survey page.
How can I stay updated on new class offerings and events?
How do you figure out the cost of each class?
Class prices vary based on the instructor, class materials, and rent costs. Empowered Paths makes every effort to make each class affordable.
Do you still have questions? Send us a message on our contact page!