Hi Shelley,
Here's a couple of new designs...
#19 is an evolution of #3. The spheres are now three dimensional and they take on a floating lightness that holds no point of tension or stress. Coupled with the much more relaxed typography, the balloon or bubble like nature of the spheres might serve to take the viewer subconsciously back to the wonderment and awe of childhood where learning is instinctual and the paths for adulthood are paved.
#20 is a first thought at using a bird in flight to represent taking off. This might be aligned to taking on new knowledge or letting go of things that hold us back. The ground is very near, signifying the act of launching into new flight.
These could probably both do with some refinement, but again I look forward to you feedback to help evolve it in the direction that most suits you.
Cheers,
Robin.