About The Now Academy
Built on Vision. Guided by Values. Growing Future Leaders.
The Now Academy was founded to reimagine education for families who want more than one-size-fits-all schooling. We believe children learn best in small, intentional learning communities where every student is known, supported, and challenged to grow.
Our model combines Business & Entrepreneurship, STEM innovation, leadership development, and strong academic foundations within a learning environment anchored in biblical character and values.
The Now Academy follows a unique Kindergarten-first growth model. Each year we welcome a new cohort of Kindergarten students while our existing students grow with the academy into the next grade level. This intentional approach allows us to build a strong educational foundation and maintain small class sizes that foster mentorship, curiosity, and confidence.
At The Now Academy, our goal is not simply to produce high-performing students.
Our mission is to develop future leaders who think critically, create boldly, and live with integrity.
Our Founder
Leonard J. Chaplin (“Coach LJ”)
Founder & Head of Vision
Leonard J. Chaplin, known as Coach LJ, is an educator, entrepreneur, and leadership coach with more than 20 years of experience in business, leadership development, and community mentorship.
As a certified John Maxwell Leadership Coach, Speaker, Trainer, and DISC Consultant, Coach LJ has spent decades helping individuals discover their purpose, develop confidence, and lead with integrity. His passion for leadership development led him to pursue a PhD in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Entrepreneurship at Regent University, where he continues to study how leadership, education, and innovation can shape the future.
Born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey, Coach LJ understands firsthand the challenges many families face within traditional education systems. His vision for The Now Academy was inspired by the biblical principle found in Proverbs 22:6 — “Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not depart from it.”
The Now Academy was created to give students more than academic knowledge. Coach LJ’s goal is to build a learning environment where children develop strong character, leadership habits, practical life skills, and a passion for lifelong learning.
Through a unique model that integrates Business, STEM, leadership development, and biblical values, Coach LJ believes students can grow into confident leaders prepared to make a positive impact in their communities and the world.
Outside of his work in education, Coach LJ enjoys exploring cultures with his South African wife, building meaningful community through podcasts and mentorship, and helping aspiring entrepreneurs reach their full potential.
Want to learn more about the vision behind The Now Academy?
Advisory Council
The Now Academy is supported by a growing Board of Directors and Advisory Council made up of educators, business leaders, and community partners who share our commitment to developing future leaders.
Our advisors help guide the strategic direction of The Now Academy and ensure the academy remains rooted in its mission of Business and STEM education, leadership development, and character formation anchored in biblical values.
This council brings diverse perspectives from education, entrepreneurship, and community leadership to help us build a learning environment that prepares students not only for academic success, but for meaningful impact in the world.
Through mentorship, accountability, and strategic insight, our advisors help The Now Academy remain innovative, sustainable, and aligned with its long-term vision.
We continue to welcome mission-aligned leaders who believe in the importance of preparing the next generation with both knowledge and character.
Interested in helping shape the future of The Now Academy?
Help Shape the Future of Education
The Now Academy was created for families who believe education should prepare students not only academically, but also for leadership, innovation, and real-world success.
If our vision resonates with you, we invite you to explore the academy and learn how your family can become part of this growing community.