Children First Leadership Academy

Children First Leadership Academy (CFLA), located in downtown Phoenix, is a specialized K-8 public charter school that operates with a unique focus on serving students experiencing homelessness or housing instability. By partnering with the neighboring UMOM New Day Centers—the largest homeless shelter for families in Arizona—the academy provides a stable, trauma-informed educational environment for children who often face significant disruptions in their academic lives. The school is intentionally designed to be a "safe harbor," prioritizing small class sizes, individualized instruction, and a wrap-around support system that addresses both the emotional and educational needs of its students.

Beyond core academics, CFLA emphasizes leadership development and character building to help students overcome the systemic barriers associated with poverty and housing insecurity. The curriculum is enriched with arts and extracurricular programs intended to foster confidence, while the school’s staff works closely with families to provide resources that promote long-term stability. By combining rigorous academic expectations with comprehensive social-emotional support, Children First Leadership Academy aims to break the cycle of homelessness, ensuring that every student has the tools and consistency necessary to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.