ABOUT US

Where Growth Happens — Every Scholar, Every Day.

About

Mary Phalen Leadership Academy

Phalen Leadership Academy West Virginia is a tuition-free public charter school opening in Charleston, WV, to serve students in grades K–5.

We believe every child deserves access to an excellent education—regardless of zip code. Our school is designed to provide strong academics, structure, and support in a nurturing environment where students feel seen, valued, and challenged.

PLA@93 scholar.
Kristin Bowles, Principal.

Kristin Bowles

Principal

Contact Principal Kristin Bowles

Email Kristin Bowles

Redefining public education — empowering scholars, strengthening communities

Our Mission

To ensure every scholar receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success in school and life.

Our Vision

We envision a school community where:

  • Students love learning
  • Families are true partners
  • Teachers are supported and empowered
  • Every child develops confidence, leadership, and character

Our Values

  • Excellence: High expectations for all
  • Integrity: Doing the right thing
  • Leadership: Developing confident leaders
  • Community: Strong partnerships with families
  • Equity: Opportunity for every child

Growth

Phalen Leadership Academies scholars make strong gains in reading and math through our data-driven, small-group instruction model that supports every learner’s path to success.

Literacy

From early childhood through fifth grade, scholars build foundational reading skills through daily practice, targeted support, and engaging instruction.

Leadership

Through enrichment clubs, intramural sports, STEM opportunities, and community partnerships, scholars grow as confident leaders.

Partners in Excellence

PLA@48 scholar.

ABOUT

Phalen Leadership Academies

Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is a nonprofit network of public schools dedicated to helping children excel academically and grow in character. As a part of the PLA school network, PLA West Virginia embodies the network’s mission to provide rigorous instruction, strong family partnerships, and a caring environment where every scholar is empowered to learn, lead, and thrive.

A holistic, evidence-based model for educational excellence that impacts scholars, families and communities.

The Scholar Experience

What Families Can Expect

Ready to Discover What’s Possible at Mary Phalen Leadership Academy?

Enroll at Mary Phalen Leadership Academy

 

As part of the nationally recognized Phalen Leadership Academies network, Mary Phalen Leadership Academy will offer families:

  • Strong academic foundations
  • Caring and committed educators
  • Character development and leadership skills
  • A joyful and structured school culture

We are currently enrolling families interested in joining our founding school community.

Join the Waitlist at PLA West Virginia Today!

Literacy & Reading

Strong phonics-based instruction, reading comprehension, and writing skills

Whole-Child Development

Social-emotional learning and leadership skills embedded into the school day

Mathematics

Problem-solving, critical thinking, and foundational math mastery

Enrichment Opportunities

Art, physical education, and activities that support creativity and wellness

McKinney-Vento Act

The McKinney-Vento Act protects scholars from discrimination based on their lack of a permanent residence. Homeless Scholars are eligible to receive a variety of services including: transportation services, free meals under the school nutrition programs, limited English proficiency class, gifted and talented programs, and special education services based on a scholar’s eligibility. Homeless Scholars will not be denied enrollment based on lack of proof of residency. Please consult the McKinney-Vento Act Liaison if you need assistance. The PLA Network does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability or national origin in any employment and/or educational opportunity. No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination in any program or activity for which the PLA Network Board is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education. The PLA Network values diversity. Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is committed to making its websites accessible for all, including individuals with disabilities, and strives to ensure accessibility currently and as new technologies emerge. PLA welcomes questions and input on its sites' accessibility at each development phase. Please contact our Call Center at 888.655.0777 or submit feedback to Communications@PhalenAcademies.org if you encounter an issue accessing any portion of the network's websites.