For the past 25 years, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s school program has helped young patients continue their education while undergoing treatment. Now known as St. Jude Imagine Academy by Chili’s, the program offers both classroom instruction and school advocacy, ensuring that learning is a part of every child’s healing process.
“The School Program is a special place,” said Laurie Leigh, the program’s first director. “It started in a small office and has grown to a 2,500-square-foot suite in the Patient Care building, where it continues to thrive.”
Accredited by Cognia, a nonprofit organization, Imagine Academy is recognized as a Special Purpose School. Although the academy does not issue academic credits or diplomas, it supports students by keeping them enrolled in their local schools while providing tailored instruction and advocacy. Each new patient at St. Jude is offered a consultation to evaluate their educational needs and determine the best level of support.
The Academy serves between 50 and 150 patients daily, with the help of 16 weekly volunteers and more than 90 employees who assist in the STEM Lab. Classes are held three times a week for K-12 students and twice a week for preschoolers. In addition to teaching, the school advocacy team helps families manage their children’s educational needs, working directly with schools to ensure proper accommodations.
“Our goal in school advocacy is to help students feel empowered to share their stories and advocate for their educational needs,” said Alli Leslie, head of the program. “By the time they return to school, or transition to college, work, or other postsecondary settings, we want them to feel confident in requesting the support they need.”
The relationships fostered at Imagine Academy often extend well beyond the students’ time at St. Jude. Many former students return to visit, grateful for the support they received during their treatment.
“One of our proudest moments is when former students return to see us during checkups,” said teacher Kaci Richardson. “Our small student-to-teacher ratio allows us to connect deeply with our students, and it means a lot when they want to stay in touch with our program.”
Graduations at Imagine Academy are especially meaningful, celebrating milestones that may have once seemed impossible.
“For many students, academic challenges are part of their journey, so reaching graduation is a significant achievement,” Leslie said. “Our students take various paths after high school, whether it’s college, vocational training, or entering the workforce. We love celebrating their success and the goals they’re working toward.”
For 25 years, Imagine Academy has provided St. Jude patients with the tools, instruction, and support they need to continue their education and pursue their dreams. Through teaching, advocacy, and long-lasting connections, the program remains a source of hope and opportunity for St. Jude families.
