Located at 4967 Columbus Street in Washington, The Discovery Center emphasizes practical, hands-on learning that students can apply beyond the classroom. The program is built around real world experiences, with weekly guest speakers from the community who share both skills and lessons learned from their own careers and life journeys.

Rather than focusing solely on traditional academics, students at The Discovery Center will spend time learning everyday skills that are often overlooked but essential for adulthood. Instruction will cover financial literacy topics such as banking and budgeting, along with first aid, sewing, basic car safety, and what to expect during a traffic stop. Students will also learn fire safety directly from firefighters, explore photography and creative skills, practice job readiness through résumé writing and interview preparation, and gain confidence in basic cooking and kitchen safety. Students will have a voice in shaping what they learn, allowing lessons to stay engaging, relevant, and meaningful.

The Discovery Center operates as a nonprofit, and tuition is covered for most eligible students through the Arkansas Education Freedom Account (EFA) program administered by the Arkansas Department of Education. The program is currently accepting students.

Councilman Don Ford attended the event on behalf of Mayor Paul Henley, who was away on business. Ford expressed his enthusiasm for the program and its long-term impact on the community.

“This is a very exciting thing that is about to take place here among us,” Ford said. “A discovery center truly lives up to its name. It creates opportunities not only to learn from the past but to inspire creativity and new ideas. This is an investment that will bear wonderful fruit for the future, and the City of Washington stands ready to help in any way we can.”

Director Heather Shelman shared that the vision for The Discovery Center has been years in the making and reflects her experience across homeschooling, private education, and public schools.

“This has been on my heart for several years,” Shelman said. “All forms of education have wonderful qualities, and this program brings together the best of them. Our focus is personalized, Christian-based education that meets students where they are, builds on their strengths, and helps them grow beyond what they ever thought possible.”

Shelman also emphasized the importance of life skills as a daily part of the program.

“Students will plan meals, budget for them, and cook them, burning a few things along the way,” she said. “But when they’re adults living on their own and doing it successfully, they’ll be thankful. From CPR and changing tires to understanding credit cards and interest, these are skills every student needs.”

She added that the location itself enhances the learning experience:

“We are in such a perfect place,” Shelman said. “We’re surrounded by history, nature, and a safe, welcoming community. Learning can happen under the magnolia trees, in the pavilion, or right here inside these walls. It’s truly special.”

Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce Director Christy Burns praised the program as sure to boost quality of life in the region.

“The Discovery Center represents the kind of innovative, community-focused education that strengthens our area,” Burns said. “By equipping students with real life skills and confidence, this program is investing directly in the future of our families and our workforce.”

With strong community support and a unique hands-on approach, The Discovery Center is set to begin classes in August, offering students an educational experience rooted in practicality, purpose, and possibility.