It is the start of the school year for Phalen Leadership Academies’ scholars across the country. While this year looks very different from others, one thing remains the same-- PLA is working to bridge the gap and pulling all the stops to support scholar achievement. 

“This is an unprecedented time for our schools and scholars,” said PLA Founder & CEO Earl Martin Phalen. “Our teachers and our school leaders are working incredibly hard to ensure that the learning continues and that our families are supported. We have to close the achievement gap for our scholars, and  every moment matters. In every one of our schools we are working to deliver that same robust instruction online as you’d find in our brick-and-mortar school buildings.”

At the start of the pandemic, PLA launched a $3.2 million fundraising initiative for its school and school partners to ensure that all scholars have adequate access to technology. All PLA scholars across the country, who would normally be in a traditional school setting, will be issued a free iPad or chromebook to continue learning at home. Where possible, scholars will also be provided with devices to support connectivity. The organization also opened a new Indiana school, Phalen Virtual Leadership Academy for all Indiana families in grades K-12. 

In addition, all PLA schools have meal distribution for families, conduct well-checks and other initiatives to support scholars’ social and emotional health. The organization has also launched a Help Desk to serve as a call center for parents who may need additional support with eLearning. 

To find a PLA school or meal distribution near you, visit PhalenAcademies.org.