Innovate!

Innovate! is a selective afterschool program at A.J. Whittenberg Elementary School of Engineering designed to nurture students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, character, and potential. Admission to Innovate! is by invitation only; students cannot apply or sign up. Once selected, participants can remain in the program as long as they continue to exhibit leadership and perseverance. The Innovate! Elementary program runs two days a week after school, providing students with a supportive environment to enhance their skills. Throughout the school year, the program includes a variety of activities, such as instruction in Math and ELA, enrichment opportunities, and homework assistance.

Upon completing fifth grade, students transition into the Innovate! Alumni program, which partners with middle and high schools to offer ongoing mentoring and coaching support. Innovate! Alumni students also receive preferential consideration for the Furman Bridges to a Brighter Future program. Additionally, they fulfill the Greenville County Schools mission of Graduate Plus, which emphasizes significant progress toward a college major and/or two-year degree, advanced placement in all high schools and International Baccalaureate opportunities, honors, dual credit, and college prep courses, as well as career center programs in high school. Funding for the Innovate! (Elementary and Alumni) program comes entirely from donations and grants. With a commitment to fostering growth and success, the Innovate! program empowers students to dream big and achieve their fullest potential.