One Thousand Academy shield and gold laurelsONE THOUSAND
ACADEMYDurham, North Carolina

Big dreams start here

A place to dream.
A world to grow.

More than afterschool. A community that helps Durham’s young scholars explore their possibilities, believe in themselves, and become who they’re meant to be.

Enroll a scholar (opens Google Forms in a new tab)Meet 1K Academy

Rooted in Durham. Built around our scholars.

Illustration of young scholars planting a seedling and drawing with a caring mentor in a bright learning space
Illustrative program scene

When we gatherTuesdays & Thursdays

Time to learn & grow2:00–6:00 p.m.

Our homeRussell Memorial CME Church

Our why

Every scholar deserves
a space to become.

Think beyond the grade.
Imagine the possibility.

William Smith, whose memory inspired One Thousand Academy
In loving memory ofWilliam Smith

One Thousand Academy creates a safe, caring space beyond the traditional classroom—where young scholars can dream, explore, learn, and grow.

Founder Frank Smith’s vision is to invite scholars into a place where they feel supported academically and personally, and where their possibilities are met with encouragement.

We believe a child’s growth includes both academic progress and personal wellbeing. A question deserves patience. A new interest deserves encouragement. A hard day deserves understanding. Here, scholars receive additional support while discovering their strengths and building confidence in their own voices.

Our scholars help shape the space, too. Through kindness, shared responsibility, and respect for one another, they practice creating a community where everyone belongs.

A name with a purpose

The academy honors William, Frank’s late twin brother, whose nickname was “1K.” It carries a lasting invitation: let 100 be a milestone, and let your dreams reach further.

The 1K experience

Growing the whole scholar.

Academic support and meaningful enrichment work together to nurture curious minds, caring hearts, and healthy habits.

01

Academic confidence

Homework assistance, tutoring, and skill building give scholars space to ask questions, work through challenges, and celebrate progress at their own pace.

Learn with support
02

Gardening & discovery

Planting, tending, and observing connect learning to the world around us. Scholars explore nature while practicing patience, responsibility, and care.

Explore with curiosity
03

Community & service

Meaningful service helps scholars see themselves as people who can make a difference. They build empathy, teamwork, and pride in their Durham community.

Lead with kindness
04

Mental & emotional wellbeing

Age-appropriate conversations and activities help scholars name feelings, practice coping skills, ask for support, and build caring relationships.

Feel seen & supported
05

Fitness & holistic wellness

Movement, sports, recreation, and healthy routines encourage scholars to care for their bodies and minds—and discover the joy of being active together.

Move, play & recharge
06

Creativity & cultural pride

Arts, crafts, and culturally responsive enrichment make room for imagination and self-expression while affirming scholars’ identities and experiences.

Dream without limits

The promise behind the program

You belong here.
Your questions matter.
Your future is full of possibility.

We want every scholar to leave feeling more connected, more capable, and more confident about what comes next.

Dream. Explore. Learn. Grow.

Beyond the school bell

An afternoon with purpose.

Room to focus. Freedom to discover. Time to connect. Activities vary, but care is always at the center.

  1. 01

    Arrive & connect

    A welcoming check-in, a chance to settle in, and caring adults ready to listen.

  2. 02

    Explore & move

    Hands-on enrichment, creative discovery, healthy snacks, and active play.

  3. 03

    Learn & practice

    Homework and academic support that encourage effort, questions, and progress.

  4. 04

    Reflect & celebrate

    Share a highlight, recognize growth, and head home with something to be proud of.

For families

Let’s grow
together.

We partner with families to understand each scholar’s needs, interests, and possibilities.

Who
Elementary school scholars in Durham
When
Tuesdays & Thursdays · 2–6 p.m.
Where
Russell Memorial CME Church
703 S. Alston Avenue
Durham, NC 27701
Open registration form (Google Forms, new tab)

Registration opens in Google Forms. Program staff will confirm enrollment and next steps.

View the program flyer (new tab)

A few helpful answers

Before your scholar joins us

How do I sign up my scholar?

Complete the student registration Google Form using the button on this page. Staff will follow up about availability, enrollment details, and anything your scholar needs for a good start.

How does transportation work?

School-to-program transportation is available for participating students within the pickup area. Contact the academy to confirm your school’s arrangements. Parents or guardians are responsible for picking scholars up at Russell Memorial by 6 p.m.; transportation home is not provided.

What support can my scholar receive?

Scholars receive homework help and academic skill building alongside enrichment that supports confidence, relationships, and wellness. Share learning needs, interests, allergies, or health considerations with staff so we can plan thoughtfully with your family.

What does a safe space mean at 1K?

It means scholars are treated with care, encouraged to ask for help, and invited to contribute to a respectful community. Kind words, shared responsibility, and support from caring adults help create a sense of belonging.

Who can I contact with questions?

Contact Frank Smith and the 1K Academy team at 1Kacademydurham@gmail.com or (919) 259-1818. We welcome questions about enrollment, transportation, volunteering, and support.

Be part of their possibility

Big futures take community.

Your time, talent, and generosity can help create a richer experience for Durham’s young scholars.

Give with purpose

Help a young
scholar flourish.

Support the resources that make exploration possible—from books and learning materials to gardening supplies, creative activities, and wellness experiences.

Give through Russell Memorial (new tab)

Direct your gift to 1K Academy

On the church’s giving form, select “Other” under “Apply To” and enter “1K Academy Afterschool Program” in the description. If you need help designating your gift, contact our team before completing your donation.

Show up & make a difference

Bring your gifts.
Build their confidence.

Help with homework, share a skill, support enrichment, or lend a hand. Caring adults make a lasting difference simply by showing up with patience and purpose.

  • Tutoring & academic encouragement
  • Gardening, arts & enrichment
  • Community partnerships & program support
Become a volunteer (Google Forms, new tab)

Complete the volunteer interest form. The team will share next steps.

Explore a partnership

Stronger together. Rooted right here.

A shared investment in Durham’s next generation.

Russell MemorialCME Church (new tab)Grant StreetCommunity · A Hayti Neighborhood (new tab)Monument of FaithSocial Justice & Outreach Team (new tab)

Their next chapter starts with possibility

A little encouragement.
A lifetime of potential.

Join the 1K community (registration form, new tab)