Entrepreneurial Ventures in Education

Entrepreneurial Ventures in Education is a national nonprofit working to improve the educational performance and increase the life opportunities of children who are living in underprivileged communities. Our flagship program, the Phalen Leadership Academies, is a turnaround operator that works to transform underperforming schools into the high-quality schools that children deserve. 

PLA is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2013 and currently serves 4,000 children in 10 schools in the Midwest. Over 90% of PLA scholars are eligible for free lunch. We have a strong track-record of success and have developed a model that has transformed five F-rated schools into A-rated schools – all within three years of taking over leadership. Our scholars also consistently experience some of the highest academic growth in their home district. The PLA education model has several unique elements that drive the strong growth of our scholars. Rigorous curriculum; high quality professional development; a coaching cycle that develops teachers; enrichment opportunities for scholars; and authentic partnerships with parents are just a few of the elements that drive success for the children we serve.