Why Join?

“When people talk to me about the digital divide, I think of it not being so much about who has access to what technology as who knows how to create and express themselves in this new language of the screen. If students aren’t taught the language of sound and images, shouldn’t they be considered as illiterate as if they left college without being able to read and write?” – George Lucas, Filmmaker

Members get access to the coolest creative space ever! We've got 3D printers, virtual reality goggles, Macbook Pros, HD cameras, 3D monitors, iPads, musical instruments, a digital recording studio, green screen... and much more!

Every day we'll have between four and eight different drop-in workshops covering topics like video game design, 3d printing, 3d scanning, iOS app design, computer programming, Kinect hacking, Arduino, electronics, Adobe creative suite, web design, autocad, level design, HTML5, CSS, OSX, Javascript, movie making, video compositing, special effects, computer animation, stop motion, 3d photography, guitar, piano, drums, garage band, DJing, singing, music composition, music theory, and songwriting... for a start.

All members are created equal. You're not locked into a certain time or a certain day of the week. Come when you want, and learn what you want. Pick up a guitar on Monday, and make a video game on Friday.

Join now! Click Here.

How Points Work

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are some workshops more expensive than others?
No! All workshops are created equal. Members can use their passes for any workshop, at any time. Computer programming on Monday, guitar on Tuesday, then back to coding on the following Monday. Creativity is about freedom. Learn what you want, when you want.

Do members need to sign up for specific workshops?
Nope, just show up!

What do you have available for members to use?
We have one computer for every member: MacBook Pros loaded with the latest digital software for creating everything from 3D models to iOS applications. We even have the entire Adobe Creative Suite. To provide a more professional design experience we also have Wacom drawing tablets and a 3D mouse available.

We also have a MakerBot 3D Printer that anyone can use, and an assortment of guitars and other tools for making music. Anything that’s not in use is free for any member to try.

What is a workshop?
Workshops are guided explorations of a particular topic (from computer programs to musical instruments.) A workshop usually lasts about an hour and includes both learning and creating.

Are the workshops on Mondays and Tuesdays the same?
Although we may focus on the same topic on both days, we could cover vastly different material. We’ll often break members up into smaller groups or start one-on-one sessions tailored to whatever they want to create or learn.

How many workshops does it take to complete a project?
Kids build their projects over time. That’s why we’re giving them 5-10GB of storage on our servers as well!

What if I’m not interested in today’s workshop?
We're always on hand to answer questions in any topic we know or to learn alongside you in topics we don’t! We’re also always happy to re-teach a previous workshop if the materials are still available.

Is a pass just good for one workshop?
One pass = one day. Usually that includes up to two workshops plus some extra time with access to our equipment that can be used to work on projects or continue learning. That same one day pass is even good on special occasions when we offer extended or even full-day programming!

What ages does this cover? Are groups going to be mixed ages?
The unique open exploration structure of the Pixel Academy allows us to work with a variety of ages at the same time. Most of our members are 7-12, but since the stuff we’re learning is technology-based, and not anything that directly corresponds to school, we find that having a range of ages is actually a real benefit for the kids, in terms of both learning and socializing. In other words, since this isn’t school, grades don’t matter!

Can you really teach a six year old to make 3D prints and video games?
We can and we do!

Are you special needs friendly?
Our workshops are technology-based and designed to be everyone-friendly! Our instructors have experience with all kinds of youth. If you have any special concerns please give us a call and we'll see if any special arrangements need to be made.

Can I drop my child off?
Yes! When you sign up you'll be asked to fill out some 'paper' work including a list of adults that can pick your child up. If you're more comfortable hanging around (especially that first time) you're more than welcome to stay.

What's the deal with the bracelets?
The membership bracelet we give your child contains a unique QR code that we link to their membership account. It contains no personal identifiable information. Just a member number.

When a member arrives, we scan them in and increase their points. When they're ready to leave, we scan their membership bracelet again and a list pops up with everyone on the 'OK to check-out' list. This lets us keep track of who's with us, who's left, and who took them. It's actually all pretty cool!

What if I have a special circumstance?
We’re just getting the ball rolling and we’re happy to be flexible to find a solution to all scenarios!

Can adults join?
Nope! Sorry.

Have more questions? or give us a call at (866) 771-6837