OUR VISION

Where Curiosity Leads the Way.

Our Mission

The Joy Lab nurtures curious, confident, capable young people through meaningful work, strong relationships, and real-world learning experiences. We see each child as a unique individual with passions and strengths. We support their dreams.

Our Educational Philosophy

We believe:

  • Children learn best when they feel safe, joyful, and inspired.

  • A small, tight-knit environment fosters deep relationships and personal growth.

  • Nature and community are powerful teachers.

  • Students thrive when given voice, choice, and responsibility.

  • Real learning happens through doing, making, exploring, and collaborating.

What Makes Us Different

  • A true micro-learning experience

  • Personalized academics tailored to individual skill levels

  • Project-based learning rooted in real-world problem solving

  • Self-directed afternoon studios

  • Outdoor and experiential education using the local nature as an extended classroom

  • Mixed-age collaboration that feels natural and supportive

At the Joy Lab, we don’t rush childhood. We deepen it.

Our Location

Joy Lab is located at Hope Central Church in the heart of Jamaica Plain, a welcoming, community-oriented setting. The local branch of the Boston Public Library, Murphy Playground and its sledding hill, and Green Street Playground are just steps away. A short walk brings us to the Arnold Arboretum, Franklin Park, and the Green Street T station. We easily navigate field trips and learning adventures throughout the city.

In our large, flexible classroom, children pursue hands-on projects and collaborative learning. Students access generous, on-site outdoor space for play, games, and gardening, which support movement, creativity, and connection to nature.

Our program is secular. Even so, we are grateful to share space with a church community that values social justice and neighborhood connection. Hope Central Church’s commitment to building community aligns beautifully with our work nurturing thoughtful, engaged young people who feel rooted in place and empowered to solve problems.

Meet the Founder

Ken Sazama — Founder & Director

Education is Ken Sazama’s passion project. A Harvard-educated teacher, Ken has built a successful real estate business in Jamaica Plain. Joy Lab is his return to his first love—education—and a reflection of what he wants for his own children.

Ken is a member of KaiPod, a 100-person cohort of mentors and founders starting micro-schools across the country. Joy Lab’s board of advisors includes Peter Gray, author of Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life.

Our Team

The Joy Lab team includes educators who:

  • Love children

  • Are skilled in individualized teaching

  • Embrace outdoor learning

  • Believe in project-based and self-directed education

  • Model kindness, curiosity, and creativity