Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is a network of 20 charter schools throughout the nation. The educational network has five schools in Michigan, and two of those schools are in Flint. They each serve K-6 education along with wrap around services for families to cultivate healthy villages.

“I grew up in Flint and remember so many education options and resources that were viable in its heyday,” says Etoyia Magee, regional talent acquisition specialist – Michigan for Phalen Leadership Academy. “There is a valuable and collective effort to revitalize the city, specifically the North side of Flint. Even with city schools closing, PLA strives to be a viable option for those who live here.”

Beyond education, PLA managed schools, which includes Greater Heights Academy and Eagle’s Nest Academy in Flint, also provide a variety of wrap-around support services for the families of their scholars. For example, SkilledUS is a government funded partner that provides free vocational training and job placement support. This program is one of the many ways that PLA works to help positively impact the communities that they serve in.

When recruiting staff for PLA’s Flint network, Magee keeps the focus on finding talent whose values align with the school’s mission and core values. As the schools continue to grow, so does the need for staff including certified teachers, special education teachers, and administrative support staff.

As for their workplace, the organization works to ensure that it focuses on cultivating a positive, safe environment for its employees.

“We’re intentional about creating a healthy work environment. Our goal is to ensure everyone is aligned with the core values of one, scholars first, two, respect, three, determination, four, continuous improvement, and five, gratitude,” says Magee. “We’re passionate about education for our youth and supporting our families, and the community seems to gravitate toward that approach.”

Along with honoring the mission of “ensuring that each of our scholars meet high academic and social standards and thrive as leaders and home and in their communities,” PLA also provides a plethora of professional development opportunities for employees who are looking to advance in their careers as educators. PLA partners with the Grow Your Own Grant, a free scholarship program designed to expedite and assist qualified employees in obtaining their State of Michigan Teaching certification.

The Flint network is also actively embedded in the community with healthy partnerships with Berston Field House, University of Michigan-Flint, Mott Community College, Flint Development Center, the Flint Cultural Center, and more.

Finally, through its Summer Advantage Program, PLA provides educational support to Flint students during the summer months to keep them engaged and learning. This is also a great opportunity for employees to continue working through the summer, if they wish.

With small classroom sizes, professional development opportunities, and a great work culture, Phalen Leadership Academies is an amazing place to work in Flint & Genesee.

For more information on local Phalen Leadership Academies locations, visit PhalenAcademies.org.