Overview

In 2025, the Georgia Department of Education (DOE) funded a statewide rollout of Unruly Splats to expand STEM access in afterschool and summer programs. Rather than manage the rollout directly, DOE partnered with the Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network (GSAN) to leverage its trusted relationships and infrastructure.

For GSAN, this model created a win-win: DOE achieved its equity and access goals, while GSAN strengthened its value as the state’s afterschool hub, generated new funding, and provided members with free, high-quality STEM tools.

This case shows how any statewide afterschool network could proactively pitch a similar model to its DOE or state funders: positioning themselves as the logical partner to manage implementation and report outcomes.

The Challenge

Statewide afterschool networks often know they could expand access to enrichment if given resources, but face barriers:

• Limited funding sources for scalable initiatives, especially in STEM.
• Network credibility undervalued — funders may not always see afterschool networks as rollout partners.
• Staff bandwidth — managing large programs can feel impossible for lean teams.
• Limited access to active play — especially in rural communities, where opportunities for kinesthetic, movement-based learning are scarce.

The Solution

In Georgia, DOE partnered with GSAN to manage the rollout, while Unruly Studios delivered a turnkey program. Together they:

• Handled logistics end-to-end – application funnel, site selection, onboarding, and shipping were managed by Unruly, with GSAN providing oversight and communications.
• Ensured equitable access – rural sites and underserved communities were prioritized.
• Aligned with standards – Unruly’s coding and math activities mapped to Georgia’s K–5 standards.
• Made learning active and fun – Splats combine math practice, computer science, and active play, helping students learn while moving.
• Guaranteed accountability – DOE only released funds upon confirmed delivery and training completion.

Results

• 19+ afterschool programs onboarded including 106 sites in under 60 days (38 days to run application process and deliver materials, 22 days to onboard, train and go live with students)
• 7,800 K–5 students served, 35% in rural communities and 84% of students eligible for free and reduced lunch
• Math made fun – 83% of students reported that Splats made learning math and STEM more enjoyable, while teachers saw increased focus and comprehension.
• Active learning boost – Programs integrated Splats as a kinesthetic learning tool, giving kids more opportunities for physical activity alongside academic practice.
• Minimal lift for GSAN staff – Unruly managed execution; GSAN focused on outreach.
• Direct funding for GSAN – DOE paid GSAN to facilitate, generating $40K+ in revenue while adding value for their network.
• Data-rich outcomes – Usage, logins, and student engagement data were collected and shared with DOE to demonstrate impact.

Why It Worked for GSAN — And Could Work for You

✔ Positioning – GSAN was seen as the trusted convener, with reach into every corner of the state.
✔ Sustainability – GSAN received funding to administer the rollout, not just pass through dollars.
✔ Impact – Members gained free, standards-aligned STEM tools, boosting GSAN’s value as a network.
✔ Movement + Academics – Students combined math practice and computer science with active, kinesthetic play—a proven approach for boosting engagement and learning outcomes.
✔ Scalability – The program model was turnkey and replicable, with minimal staff burden.

Key Takeaway for Afterschool Networks

This partnership demonstrates how statewide afterschool networks can:

• Pitch DOE or state funders on a STEM rollout that leverages your network reach.
• Position your organization as the bridge between state priorities and local program needs.
• Get paid to facilitate — while strengthening your value to members and providing data-rich outcomes to the state.
• Offer a holistic solution — STEM learning, math practice, and active play all in one program.

With Unruly managing logistics, statewide networks can confidently propose and deliver initiatives that are equitable, impactful, and financially sustainable—while helping kids move, learn, and thrive.