ITAV LEADERSHIP ACADEMY MASTER PLAN

New Office collaboration with Bureau Gemmell had the privilege of working with It Takes a Village in 2022 to support a grant application for an expansion of their Early Learning program.   Getting to work with them over the past couple of years and support their vision has been invigorating for the firm.  Village Leadership Academy (VLA) is a Nonprofit Private School in Chicago founded by It Takes a Village Family of Schools. ITAV’s mission is to transform communities through high quality, culturally responsive, and empowering education. VLA currently serves children from kindergarten through 8th grade at their location in River City. 

The Bronzeville Campus Master Plan was an exercise in planning for the future growth of VLA. ITAV acquired the historic Hales Franciscan High School in 2022, with big plans for the campus. In partnership with ITAV, Third Entity evaluated the goals, values, and vision for the new VLA campus through engagement sessions with students, parents, teachers, and leadership. The Campus Development plan consists of 5 phases spanning the next 5+ years, including extensive renovations of the existing school building, a new early learning center, a high school, a community center, and plenty of outdoor space. When realized the campus will serve children from ages 6 weeks to 18 years and will support families and the community through ITAV’s holistic approach to education, workforce development, community engagement and deep commitment to empowering compassionate global leaders.