 The school is authorized by Ball State University, was established by the Drexel Foundation for Educational Excellence, Inc., and is managed by American Quality Schools, Inc.

Thea Bowman Leadership Academy first opened as a K-6 charter school on August 18, 2003.With each passing year, Bowman Academy added an additional grade level.As of the 2009–2010 academic year, the school had expanded its program to accommodate all thirteen grade levels, from kindergarten through 12th grade.