It Takes A Village Family of Schools

Congratulations, Christina! Cristina Ramirez-Granados, Teacher at Metropolitan Family Services is now a part of the 30+ Early Childhood Educators throughout Chicago to have received their PEL License after taking our PEL Test Prep course. Learn more about the course: bit.ly/4fYUAP

We are grateful to everyone who joined the premiere screening of our World Scholars Program Kenya 2025 documentary. Our students shared their inspiring journey during the screening and panel discussion—your support made the day truly special. All proceeds support the WSP 2026 trip to Japan. Donate: https://rebrand.ly/nys2w67 Stay tuned for our next screening or email jhatch@itavschools.org to host one.

ITAV is hosting a Job Placement Workshop for young adults ages 18–24. Participants can earn up to $200 while receiving resume support, interview coaching, and direct connections with employers. This is a great opportunity to support young adults in our community—please share! Date: Saturday, Dec 6, 2025 Location: ITAVLA Bronzeville | 4930 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago, IL 60615 Register: bit.ly/43EfSPs

This #GivingTuesday, It Takes A Village is launching Social Justice Libraries at our Leadership Academy campuses in South Loop and Bronzeville. These libraries will provide students with access to diverse, identity-affirming literature that supports critical thinking, belonging, and academic growth. If you’re able, we invite you to support this meaningful initiative: bit.ly/3CgKw6q

Congratulations, Ariel! Ariel Smith, Lead Teacher at ITAV River City is now a part of the 30+ Early Childhood Educators throughout Chicago to have received their PEL License after taking our PEL Test Prep course. Learn more about the course: bit.ly/4fYUAP

Congratulations, Tameakah! Tameakah Gant, Teacher at Carole Robertson Albany Park is now a part of the 30+ Early Childhood Educators throughout Chicago to have received their PEL License after taking our PEL Test Prep course. Learn more about the course: bit.ly/4fYUAP

🎬 Early Access Premiere: World Scholars Program – Kenya 2025 Documentary We are excited to announce an exclusive screening of It Takes A Village Family of Schools’ World Scholars Program: Kenya 2025 documentary — a film that chronicles our students’ immersive leadership and cultural learning experience across Kenya. This documentary highlights what happens when young people are given the opportunity to explore the world, build global awareness, and see themselves as leaders on a global stage. Event Details: Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 | Chicago, IL This premiere is more than just a film screening — it’s a celebration of what intentional investment in our youth can do. We would love to have our partners, supporters, and community members join us in uplifting this work. 🎟 Reserve Tickets: https://lnkd.in/gcFKKHxP We invite you to share this announcement with your networks — especially organizations, educators, and advocates committed to global education, youth leadership, and cultural exchange. Together, we continue to build pathways that expand what’s possible for our students.

Congratulations, Raquel! Raquel Turner, Lead Teacher at ITAV River City is now a part of the 30+ Early Childhood Educators throughout Chicago to have received their PEL License after taking our PEL Test Prep course. Learn more about the course: bit.ly/4fYUAP

Now Recruiting: Bilingual (English/Spanish) Youth Apprentices! Are you 18–24 and passionate about uplifting your community? It Takes A Village’s Pathways to Power Apprenticeship is calling on motivated bilingual youth ready to grow their skills, serve others, and build a brighter future in early childhood and youth development. What You’ll Gain: • Hands-on experience working with youth • Professional training and mentorship • Meaningful impact in your community • Opportunities to use your bilingual skills to connect cultures and empower others This is a paid apprenticeship program designed to help you develop as a community leader and educator. 📢 Know someone who would be a great fit? Tag them or share this post to help us spread the word! Limited spots available — apply today: bit.ly/3Wviuv0

Pumpkins & Possibilities: Celebrating Fall with Our Community This year’s Pumpkin Patch at ITAV Leadership Academy’s Bronzeville Athletic Field was full of laughter and fall fun. Families enjoyed rides, activities, and pumpkins while coming together to celebrate the season. We are grateful to SYLVESTER BROOME EMPOWERMENT VILLAGE (SBEV) Chicago, Alderman Lamont J. Robinson, That Harper Kid, Chicago Children’s Equestrian Center, NBU Athletics, Meridian Health, Chicago Fire FC, Rush University Medical Center, and People’s Energy for their sponsorship and support in making this event possible!