It Takes A Village Leadership Academy (ITAV LA) is an independent kindergarten through 8th grade social justice institution located in Chicago, IL. ITAV LA offers a fresh new approach to teaching and learning that includes high academic standards, exposure to world history and geography, appreciation for cultural differences, the development of critical thinking and perspective taking skills, and socially just decision making. We are cultivating tomorrow’s global leaders by providing students with education and opportunities that prepare them to lead today.

We are proud to announce the acquisition of the revered Hales Franciscan campus, an iconic institution located at 4930 S. Cottage Grove Avenue in the heart of Chicago’s historic Bronzeville community. ITAV received a total of $12M in capital from IFF and the Chicago Community Loan Fund to acquire the 9.1-acre campus and complete renovations to the 100,000-square-foot building located on the site. The project–the first of five phases of construction planned for the campus– will make it possible for ITAV to consolidate several of its programs into one location.

The first phase will allow ITAV to bring its kindergarten through 8th-grade social justice elementary school, It Takes A Village Leadership Academy, to Bronzeville, preparing to serve 300 students in fall 2024. After the next two phases of renovations are completed to the campus, ITAV will create 150 new early childhood education slots and 220 seats for high school students– completing a strategic goal to offer a birth to career pathway.   Stay updated on our progress!