Preparing the Critical Thinkers, Problem Solvers, and Contributors to Society the Future Demands.
From proficiency to purpose.
The Hardy Center created The HARDY Way- a proven educational framework that develops academic proficiency critical thinking, leadership, workforce readiness, and character so children can participate meaningfully in school, the community and their future work places.
THE HARDY WAY
Our proven educational framework.
OUR MISSION
We build the critical thinkers, problem solvers, and contributors to society the future demands.
OUR IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
OUR VISION
Transforming underserved communities one Hardy Kid at a time.
THE HARDY WAY IN ACTION
Afterschool Academic Achievement Program
Building strong academic foundations through personalized instruction, high expectations, and proven results.
Summer Pathways Program
Connecting academics to STEM, skilled trades, responsible AI, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem solving.
Continuum of Growth
Together, our programs create a powerful cycle of learning, growth, and discovery that prepares students to thrive in school, life, and their communities. The Afterschool Academic Achievement Program builds a strong academic foundation, while the Summer Pathways Program gives students opportunities to apply their learning through experiences that expand their horizons and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Afterschool Academic Achievement Program
THE FOUNDATION
Our Afterschool Academic Achievement Program builds the strong academic skills, habits and confidence that prepares students for future success.
High-dose tutoring
Academic support in ELA and math
Standardized test prep
Ongoing assessments to track academic growth
Summer Pathways Program
THE CONTINUATION & APPLICATION
In the summer, students apply their skills to exciting real-world experiences that expand their horizons and deepen their learning.
Academic review to prevent summer learning loss
Hands-on enrichment classes
Field trips and community experiences
Create solutions to real community needs through capstone projects
Afterschool is Almost Here!
Afterschool is Almost Here!
Building on Classroom Learning. Expanding What’s Possible.
Hiring for the 2026–2027 Afterschool Academic Achievement Program is underway.
We’re looking for passionate educators, tutors, mentors, and volunteers to join our team and build on the strong foundation students develop in the classroom.
Together, we provide additional opportunities for students to strengthen their skills, explore their interests, and move from proficiency to purpose.
Hear from Our Educators
“Watching students grasp new concepts and grow is so rewarding. Teaching long division and seeing that “Aha!” moment was a highlight. This program has shown me the value of being a role model and helping younger generations succeed.”
— Jack Slivken, Former Tutor“The most rewarding moment has been watching my students make progress and realize what they are capable of. Seeing students who were hesitant at the beginning become more confident, complete work independently, and proudly share their learning has reminded me why I became a teacher. Their excitement and growth have made this summer a very rewarding experience.”
— Natashia Amoako, Summer Teacher“For the last four years, we have valued the opportunity to support the professional development of our pre-service teachers through working with The Hardy Center programs. We regularly encourage our students to consider working with the THC’s year-long tutoring program or the summer enrichment program..”
— Dr. Marlissa Stauffer, Chair of the Division of Education at Ohio Dominican University“Impactful is one of the words to describe [The Hardy Center’s] programming because of the outcomes we see from the youth who come to our school and have had the Hardy Center experience…we’ve had the opportunity to see changes in youth overall mood and behavior, increase in grades and performance in the classroom and the impact on their esteem and how they view themselves.”
— Tiffany Al-Lateef, Former Assistant Principal at KIPP ColumbusStay Connected!
