The Scholar Experience
Where scholars are inspired to discover their potential, build confidence, and lead with purpose.
The PLA Experience
From Day One to Success and Beyond
At Phalen Leadership Academies at Louis B. Russell, Jr. School 48, the scholar experience reaches far beyond the classroom. As a tuition-free public Innovation Network School serving PreK–6th grade, we nurture the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—through data-driven instruction, hands-on learning, and a supportive, culturally rich environment. Every scholar is known, encouraged, and inspired to grow into a confident learner and responsible leader.
Families are central to our success. Working together, we empower scholars to achieve excellence, celebrate their identity, and make a positive impact within our school and the wider Indianapolis community.
Where Care Meets Excellence
Alec Mayer, Principal
“Families trust us with their most precious gift—their children—and we take that responsibility to heart. At PLA 48, we provide a rigorous, caring, and joyful learning environment that prepares scholars for lifelong success. We are honored to support your child’s journey every single day.”
Hallmarks of
The PLA@48 Experience
PLA@48’s proven model ensures that every scholar has access to a high-quality, well-rounded education—one rooted in equity, care, and community.
Strong Academics & Personalized Learning
Every scholar benefits from rigorous, data-driven instruction tailored to their individual needs. Through small-group learning, one-on-one support, and targeted intervention in math and reading, our teachers help scholars build strong foundations and achieve meaningful academic growth.
Enrichment & After-School Programs
PLA@48 offers a variety of enrichment opportunities—including STEM activities, after-school clubs, intramural sports, and tutoring. These programs spark curiosity, build teamwork, and inspire leadership beyond the classroom.
Safe, Inclusive, and Culturally Rich Environment
Safety, care, and inclusion are central to our mission. Our staff cultivates trust, respect, and belonging so every scholar feels valued, supported, and confident to explore and succeed in a culturally rich environment.
Caring Teachers & Mentorship
Our teachers serve as mentors who truly know and support each scholar. Through encouragement, goal-setting, and personalized guidance, they nurture confidence, character, and a lifelong love of learning.
Character & Leadership Development
PLA@48 prepares scholars to lead with integrity, empathy, and pride in their community. Enrichment clubs, intramural sports, and leadership opportunities help students strengthen their voice, values, and sense of purpose.
Family & Community Partnership
We believe strong family and community connections are essential to scholar success. Through open communication, family events, and partnerships—including mentorship with Butler University—we support scholar learning, leadership, and the growth of the whole family.
What Families Can Expect
from the PLA@48 Experience
Families choose PLA@48 for a school that feels supportive, structured, and connected—where scholars are challenged, encouraged, and inspired each day. From strong academics to hands-on enrichment, we help every child reach their potential and grow into confident, responsible leaders.
A Place Where Every Scholar Is Known
PLA@48 is built on safety, respect, and belonging. Every scholar is known, valued, and supported in a welcoming environment that honors diversity, culture, and community.
Engaging Classrooms
Through data-driven instruction, small-group learning, and 1:1 technology, our classrooms provide engaging, personalized lessons that help scholars master essential skills.
Character & Leadership
Scholars learn to lead with responsibility, integrity, and kindness. With enrichment clubs, intramural sports, and mentoring, students develop character and leadership skills that guide them in school and beyond.
Academic Excellence for Every Scholar
Our rigorous, data-informed curriculum ensures scholars receive both support and challenge in reading, math, science, and beyond—helping them grow at every level.
Joyful, Enriching Experiences
From STEM activities and art to athletics and clubs, PLA@48 provides joyful learning experiences that spark curiosity and make school a place scholars love to be.
Committed, Caring Educators
Our teachers are dedicated professionals who build meaningful relationships with scholars. With coaching and ongoing training, they deliver the high-quality instruction every child deserves.
PLA@48 ACADEMY’S
FAMILY JOURNEY
At PLA@48, we believe every family’s journey is a shared story of growth, pride, and purpose. From the first day of kindergarten through sixth grade, our tuition-free public charter school with parents to ensure every scholar is loved, challenged, and supported. Beyond the classroom, PLA@48 strengthens families through free summer learning programs that keep scholars engaged and free career training opportunities that help parents and family members build brighter futures. Together, we nurture academic excellence, cultural pride, and leadership—empowering scholars and families to thrive in school, in work, and in life.
The Scholar Journey Through PLA@48 (K–6)
From the first day of Kindergarten through 6th Grade, PLA@48 scholars experience a transformative education rooted in love, high expectations, and academic excellence. Our classrooms build strong foundations in reading, math, and social-emotional growth while nurturing leadership, service, and a passion for lifelong learning.
Summer Advantage
Learning doesn’t stop when school ends. Through our partnership with Summer Advantage, scholars stay engaged and inspired all summer long with hands-on enrichment, reading and math instruction, field trips, and fun experiences that boost achievement and prevent learning loss.
Skilled US
With Skilled US, PLA@48 extends opportunity beyond the classroom—offering free career training for parents and adult family members (ages 17+). Graduates often earn $45,000 or more per year, building financial stability, confidence, and a stronger foundation for their children’s success.
Beyond Graduation & Community Impact
The PLA@48 experience transforms entire families. Alumni, parents, and partners become leaders and advocates who strengthen their neighborhoods and inspire the next generation—creating a lasting legacy of learning, growth, and opportunity.
Empowering Scholars, Strengthening Families,
Transforming Communities
At PLA@48, learning goes beyond the classroom. Through programs like Skilled US and Summer Advantage, we equip both children and adults with the tools to thrive—helping families gain stability, scholars stay on track, and communities build brighter futures. Together, we’re creating opportunities that change lives across generations.
Build a Brighter Future with Skilled US
skilledus.org
Through Skilled US, PLA@48 extends its mission beyond the classroom—empowering parents and adult family members (ages 17+) to build stable, rewarding careers. This FREE job training program offers hands-on instruction, career coaching, and direct connections to employers in high-demand industries. Graduates of Skilled US programs earn $45,000 or more per year, creating greater financial stability for their families and stronger foundations for their children’s success. When parents thrive, scholars thrive. Click below to learn more and start your journey toward a new career today.
Enroll in our free 5-week Summer Advantage Program
SummerAdvantage.org
PLA@48 partners with Summer Advantage to keep scholars learning, growing, and thriving year-round. This FREE, research-based summer program helps prevent learning loss and boosts academic achievement through hands-on enrichment, reading and math instruction, field trips, and fun activities that spark curiosity. While most students lose ground over the summer, PLA@48 scholars gain skills, confidence, and friendships that carry into the next school year. Families love the joy, structure, and inspiration their children experience every day. Click below to learn more and give your child the gift of a summer that makes a difference.
McKinney-Vento Act