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With a global pandemic and a worldwide outcry for justice and equality, Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA)  is doing what it does best--staying true to its mission to improve the lives of children in low income communities through education. Even during the summer, the organization is reminding its scholars that they are loved, they matter, and that education is going to be a passport to impact what they see now in the world. 

“There is no doubt that everything happening in the media-- the riots, the deaths caught on camera, the pandemic, all of it is impacting our children across the country,” said PLA CEO and Founder Earl Martin Phalen. “It has put their learning at stake and caused even deeper impacts on their social and emotional well-being. Our scholars already battle against some incredible odds. With the current state of our nation, things have gotten a lot tougher.  We had to do something to continue to support them during this time. Our goal is to encourage them and help to see them through.” 

PLA operates 22 schools across the country with over 10,000 students in Indiana, Ohio, MiChigan and Texas. This year PLA partnered with the renowned summer program, Summer Advantage USA (also founded by Phalen) to provide students with chromebooks and laptops in order to prevent further learning loss due to COVID and to help them continue learning virtually over the summer. The program features celebrity guest speakers who join scholars online in morning to help inspire them to keep climbing, in spite of all that is happening in the world. 

Students have already heard from celebrities guest speakers, including former NFL Indianapolis Colts player Marlin Jackson, NBA Orlando Magic player Markelle Fultz, NFL Indianapolis Colts Coach, Alan Williams, and former NFL player Ryan Mundy.

Scholars will hear from many more celebrity guests throughout the summer from various careers and backgrounds including:  celebrity  chefs, entrepreneurs, medical professionals, and entertainers. They’ll  share their stories and encourage scholars to continue to dream and excel despite adversity. #