Dr. Yvonne Rooks is the Founder and Executive Director of It Takes a Village Microschool (ITV). She created ITV out of a deep desire to build a learning space where children feel truly seen, heard, valued, loved, and respected — a place where they are encouraged to discover their strengths, explore their creativity, and dream boldly while honoring their heritage, culture, and lived experiences.

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With over 15 years of experience in K–12 education and school leadership, Dr. Rooks has dedicated her career to supporting students, families, and educators through a literacy-first approach grounded in strong relationships, high expectations, and joyful learning. She believes that learning to read — and reading to learn — is foundational, not only to academic success but to confidence, voice, and self-expression.

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It Takes a Village Microschool was founded to create more than just a school. It was designed as a community-rooted learning environment where students build strong literacy skills and apply their learning through meaningful, project-based experiences connected to the real world. At ITV, children are invited to ask questions, solve problems, collaborate with others, and develop critical thinking skills in ways that feel relevant and empowering.

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Equally central to Dr. Rooks’ vision is the partnership between school and family. She believes that children thrive when educators and families work together as true partners — forming a village where learning extends beyond the classroom and every child is supported holistically. Through this approach, Dr. Rooks aims to nurture confident learners, compassionate leaders, and purpose-driven changemakers prepared to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.