Transformative Education for a New Generation

About Us

  • Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is a transformative leader in education. We work to create great district schools, innovation schools, and public charter schools. PLA provides customized support and tools to improve classroom instruction, maximize student learning, increase teacher retention, and achieve long-term academic improvement.

PLA School Locations

Quick Facts

    • PLA is a nonprofit network of high-quality elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

    • PLA serves nearly 10,000 scholars in 20 schools across the country.

    • We raise achievement for students in historically underserved communities by providing rigorous, personalized, and well-rounded educational experiences to meet the unique needs of each scholar. 

    • PLA has transformed seven F-rated schools into A-rated schools.

    • PLA is the largest black founded and led school turnaround operator in the country.
    • Our schools and our families are supported through wrap-around services such as: free summer programming, free in-school tutoring, free job training programs and support in getting scholars to and through college.

       
  • In our school management, school launch, and school improvement efforts, we partner with our communities and equip school leaders and educators with the tools they need to lead high-quality, high-performing schools.

Our History

  • Phalen Leadership Academies was founded in 2013 in honor of George and Veronica Phalen. The organization is centered around the Phalen's core values of: Children First, Respect, Determination, Continuous Improvement, and Gratitude.

  • Our Mission Our mission is to ensure that each of our scholars meet high academic and social standards, and thrive as leaders at home, in their communities, and in the world.
  • Our Vision Our ultimate goal is that our scholars master key academic skills, and demonstrate strong character as exhibited by: honesty, service to others, a superior work ethic, and a strong vision for and belief in their futures.

Our Partners

Phalen Leadership Academies partners with school districts, school boards and charter authorizers in school improvement.
  • All children deserve a high-quality education, no matter the zip code. PLA partners with school districts, boards, and charter school authorizers to lead school transformation. Together, we make great schools. We have a deep, authentic commitment to many of the most pressing educational challenges. We also have a strong commitment to our students and to our school community. We believe in empowering teachers to lead and creating partnerships that involve all stakeholders.

    Great public education is the foundation for social equity and economic resilience. It is our responsibility as leaders to nurture that foundation so that every child has the opportunity to fulfill their tremendous innate potential.

Our Programs

  • #WeArePLA
  • A charter management organization, a catalyst for school improvement plans, champions for public charter schools & quality public schools, and champions for change.