Our story
More Than Afterschool — It's a Community
itsChOOL Academy was built on a simple belief: every child deserves a safe, inspiring place to grow after the school bell rings.
50+
Students enrolled each week
4
Enrichment programs offered
5★
Average parent satisfaction
100%
Certified, background-checked staff
What drives us
Our Mission
At itsChOOL Academy – "The Afterschool Lounge" we believe learning doesn't end when the school day does; it continues in a fun, engaging, and supportive environment where every child can thrive.
Our program provides a safe space for students to complete homework, build confidence, explore new interests, and develop meaningful friendships.
Through academic support, enrichment activities, creative projects, and social-emotional learning, we inspire curiosity, encourage personal growth, and help students reach their full potential.
At itsChOOL Academy "The Afterschool Lounge", we're more than an afterschool program—we're a community dedicated to empowering the next generation, one child at a time.
Safety First
A secure, nurturing environment where every child feels seen and protected.
Inspire Curiosity
We spark wonder through hands-on activities that make learning irresistible.
Build Community
Strong friendships and teamwork skills that last a lifetime.
Celebrate Growth
Every milestone matters — we cheer for progress, big and small.
Where it all started
How itsChOOL Began
itsChOOL Academy was founded by an educator who saw a real need in the Spartanburg community for quality afterschool care that goes beyond babysitting. Too many kids were going home to empty houses or missing out on enrichment opportunities simply because of cost or availability.
We set out to create a place that families could truly count on. A place where kids are excited to go after school. A place that feels like a second home; warm, energetic, and full of possibility.
Today, it is the goal for itsChOOL Academy to serve dozens of K–5th grade students every week, and we're just getting started. We're proud to be part of the Spartanburg community and committed to growing alongside the families we serve.
About the Founder
The heart and vision behind itsChOOL Academy "The Afterschool Lounge".
Founder & Program Director
Joi Murdock
Joi Murdock founded itsChOOL Academy "The Afterschool Lounge" with a passion for creating a safe, enriching afterschool experience for every child in the Spartanburg community. Driven by a belief that learning should be joyful and every kid deserves a place to thrive, Joi built itsChOOL — The Afterschool Lounge — from the ground up.
Come See itsChOOL for Yourself
Schedule a tour or reach out! We'd love to meet your family.