YouthBuild’s staff is composed of committed educators, administrators, counselors, vocational instructors and AmeriCorps members. We are a diverse team of professionals, united in our high standards and commitment to serving the best interests of the students.
No matter their role at the school, every employee at YouthBuild plays a part in creating a safe and positive educational environment where amazing transformations can take place.
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Administration
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Le’Yondo Dunn is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School. His passion for working in education stemmed from his own experiences, which mirror many students attending YouthBuild. He firmly believes that all students should have access to a high-quality education and educators who believe endlessly in their potential regardless of their zip codes.
His excitement about leading YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School arises from its inspiring mission and the opportunities it provides young adults. The school’s commitment to fostering an environment of love, support, and respect for the whole person deeply resonates with him. By empowering students with vital skills and connecting them to opportunities, YouthBuild equips them to graduate high school successfully and transition to college and career paths as critically conscious leaders devoted to positive change for themselves and their communities.
Before assuming the role of CEO at YouthBuild, Le’Yondo made significant contributions to the field of education during his time as the principal at Simon Gratz High School in North Philadelphia. There, he spearheaded an impactful anti-gun violence initiative, leading to its subsequent adoption by the entire Mastery Charter system, implemented across all secondary schools. For the first time since 2012, Le’Yondo successfully united Gratz as a comprehensive 9-12 high school under one leadership team, bringing improved educational opportunities. He also launched Career and Technical Education programming to ensure students have multiple pathway options when transitioning to their postsecondary paths. Prior, he worked as a school administrator in several other large, high-performing charter management organizations.
Le’Yondo’s dedication to education advocacy began in Southeast Louisiana, his home state, where he first recognized the power of education to create positive change. He also played a crucial role in supporting the founding of one of the first charter schools in the state of Washington, where he witnessed the transformative potential of alternative education models. Mr. Dunn attended the University of New Orleans and St. Joseph’s University. Le’Yondo resides in Germantown with his wife, who is also an educator, and son.
Chief Financial and Operating Officer
Adesanya is an energetic, results-oriented, and mission driven Senior Management Professional with more than 20 years’ progressive experience leading finance and operations, global projects, and grants administration for large domestic and international non-profit organizations. She has a proven track record in reorganizing, streamlining, and strengthening operations to maximize performance. She is a collaborative, creative problem solver that enjoys working with a forward thinking mission-driven team in a fun fast-paced environment.
Adesanya is a world traveler and has worked in many countries, including Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Vietnam, Peru, Haiti, and Thailand.
In her spare time, Adesanya enjoys relaxing at the beach, studying positive psychology, and hanging out with her dogs.
Principal
Kazmir Davis joined YouthBuild Philly Charter School in June 2023 as Principal, overseeing the organization’s program team. A Philadelphia native and Temple University graduate, Kazmir earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. Kazmir began her teaching career in Prince George’s County, Maryland in 2005. Kazmir continued graduate studies at the University of Maryland concentrating on Teacher Leadership in School & Minority and Urban Education. She completed graduate studies and obtained a Masters of Educational Leadership degree from Holy Family University. Over the course of her twenty years in the urban education space, Kazmir has passionately served the students and families of Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland, the School District of Philadelphia, KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools and Mastery Charter Schools as both a teacher and school leader. Kazmir possesses a relentless desire for her students to succeed as she guides them on a journey to self-discovery, development and academic achievement. She consistently demonstrates her commitment to do whatever it takes to ensure every moment matters for every young person. In her role, Kazmir provides a clear vision for learning for all students; ensures a safe, secure, and orderly learning environment; and cultivates strong relationships with and acts in service to diverse stakeholders, including families and communities. Kazmir enjoys family time with her husband, Terrence, and their precious sons, Zion Isaiah and Zamir Elijah.
Chief of Staff and Strategy
Taylor Uyehara is the Chief of Staff and Strategy at YouthBuild Philadelphia. He is a passionate life-long educator who is committed to ensuring that all students have equitable access to high-quality educational supports that empower them to achieve their postsecondary goals.
Prior to joining the YouthBuild team, Taylor served as Assistant Principal of Instruction at Simon Gratz High School for 6 years, supporting the math, science, foreign language, postsecondary, and career & technical education departments. Before that, he served as a math teacher, teacher coach, and assistant principal at Olney High School for 7 years.
Taylor was born and raised in California and has a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics and Global Studies from UC Santa Barbara and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University. Outside of work he loves to travel, spend time outdoors with his wife and two children, and follow the Warriors and 49ers.
Chief Development Officer
Jenifer Trachtman is YouthBuild Philly’s incoming Chief Development Officer. Jenifer is a Philadelphia native and proud alum of Philadelphia public schools. After receiving a BA from the University of Wisconsin, Jenifer returned to Philadelphia and quickly began her career in nonprofit fundraising including positions at the Pennsylvania Ballet, Temple University, the Philadelphia Education Fund, and, most recently, the Monell Center. She likes to refer to her fundraising experience as spanning the entire STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) continuum with education being the unifying thread throughout her career. Jenifer gained an MBA in marketing from Temple University while working full-time and has been a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) for the last 10 years. Jenifer and her husband live in the Northern Liberties section of the city where they raised two children, now 23 and 20. She does yoga and swims and her happy place is a lake house in Maine.
Operations
Director of Information Technology
Sam Markow joined YouthBuild Philly in July 2024 as the Director of Information Technology. With over 25 years of experience spanning the healthcare, publishing, and consumer goods industries, Sam has cultivated a deep passion for IT since childhood. His curiosity about how things work and his drive to solve complex problems have been the cornerstones of his career.
Sam is dedicated to leveraging technology to improve the lives of both staff and students at YouthBuild Philly. He believes that by providing access to advanced technological resources and innovative solutions, he can foster a more efficient, engaging, and supportive educational environment for everyone.
Outside of work, Sam enjoys woodworking, baking for friends and family, and playing disc golf.
IT Support Specialist
Josh is the IT Help Desk Specialist at Youthbuild Philadelphia. He began his career at Youthbuild in 2017 as an intern and has worked his way up to an official Help Desk position. He stresses the importance of Customer Service and has made it his goal to ensure his staff, customers, and clients feel comfortable and confident in his ability to troubleshoot. As an African-American in the STEM field, Josh hopes that students will see him as an example and use him as a blueprint, wanting them to be able to look in the mirror and see themselves as someone capable. Josh is currently working towards Cyber Security certifications and has a passion for keeping information safe and educating people on the practices of safe technology usage.
Executive Assistant to CEO
Kianna Cooper joined YouthBuild Philly Charter School in June 2023 as Executive Assistant to the CEO. Born in Ohio, and raised in south central Pennsylvania, Kianna moved to Philadelphia 6 years ago. She has received her Bachelor of Art in Art Therapy from Temple University with a minor in Education, and is currently working to obtain a Master degree in Business Administration from Saint Joseph’s University with concentrations in Leadership and Data Management. Kianna has a diverse background in non-profit service coordination and delivery for diverse populations, and has worked with a number of organizations ranging from educational to art institutions – Kianna is also a practicing Ceramic Artist, teaching classes at the Clay Studio in Philadelphia.
Kianna is passionate about the development and implementation of educational and civic engagement programming. She aims to promote physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being among today’s youth for a successful secondary transition process, as well as the cultivation of change, growth, and self-actualization so that they may become active members in their community. In the near future, it is Kianna’s desire to finish her MBA degree, while actively engaging and connecting with students and staff at YouthBuild.
In her free time, Kianna enjoys spending time with her family and friends in D.C., playing with her pets Korra (dog) and Appa (cat), and reading a good book in a park.
Human Resources
Senior Director of Human Resources
Megan Gundogdu is the Senior Director of Human Resources at YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School. She is a passionate, progressive educator who has served Public and Charter School Students and families in New York City and Philadelphia for over 20 years. She believes that all students should have highly-qualified, engaging adults guiding them to be critical citizens of their community and believes that a people-centered workplace environment can provide all members of the community the opportunity to learn and thrive.
Megan loves to stay active in both fitness and travel, adventuring near and far with her four children and partner. She spends a lot of time in her partner’s home country of Turkey and encourages anyone she can to visit!
Megan has a Bachelor’s degree from Sweet Briar College and Masters degrees from Fordham University and Mercy College.
Finance
Controller
Allison is an accounting professional and Certified Public Accountant with over ten years of experience in the Non-for-Profit industry. She began her career in public accounting, managing the audits of a variety of organizations. She is currently the Controller at YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School and is dedicated to supporting young people in the City of Philadelphia to become leaders in their communities.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and dog. She loves to travel and is always looking for the next place to visit!
She received her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Accounting from the Pennsylvania State University.
Accounting Manager
Brian Sullivan joined YouthBuild Philly in January 2021, as the Senior Accountant. Brian is now the Accounting Manager, who is responsible for a portion of the day-to-day operations of the Finance department. Born in Doylestown, PA, Brian moved to Philadelphia to pursue a degree in Finance, Accounting, and MIS at Drexel University in 2014. After graduation, Brian spent 3 years at Grant Thornton working in Public accounting, before beginning his YouthBuild career. Brian is inspired by the work of those at YouthBuild, who provide a positive impact to students and the community on a daily basis. While his role is primarily on the administrative side, Brian has been fortunate enough to be involved in mentoring and other community events to better the lives of our young people. In his free time, Brian enjoys sports, fitness, and reading.
Junior Accountant
Sian Poteat-Romero joined Youth Build in 2024. Having lived in Wilmington, Camden, Glassboro and Philly; he’s constantly been on the move. That theme has persisted into his professional life as well. Having originally gone to school and become certified as a Medical Lab Scientist he craved more and set out to develop the necessary skills for his passion; entrepreneurship. Having a history of real-estate experience Sian jumped into business to business sales to create strategic connections and refine his skills. While selling, he started his Masters in Accounting and joined Youth Build as a Junior Accountant in order to gain real-world accounting experience and to help the students of YouthBuild towards their long-term goals. Sian enjoys hiking, fitness, hunting, marksmanship and reading.
Program Operations
Director of School Operations
Latosha Morris joined YouthBuild Philly Charter School in September 2017 as a Postsecondary Coordinator. In her role she supported young people navigate what life would look like after YouthBuild. Latosha is a proud South Philadelphia native. As a Community College graduate, Latosha earned an Associates degree in Liberal Arts. While working as a Financial Aid Officer at The Art Institute of Philadelphia, Latosha continued her education at Argosy University, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.
Latosha has a heart for the young people she serves. She thrives on building lasting relationships, especially with the young people she serves as well as her colleagues. In her new role, as Director of School Operations Latosha oversees the daily operations of YouthBuild, while also creating experiences for the students of YouthBuild.
In her free time Latosha owns and operates an event planning business “Events By Latosha Lynette” where she brings her clients visions to life. Latosha is happily married to her husband, Shawn. Latosha enjoys spending time with her amazing family and friends. She also enjoys traveling, eating good food, hosting intimate dinner parties and girls nights.
Program Operations Specialist
School Operations Specialist
Camryn Daniels, better known as Ms. Cammy, joined the team at YouthBuild Philly in July 2024, as the Operations Specialist. Camryn was born in Detroit, Michigan and shortly after moved to Indianapolis, Indiana. After living in Indianapolis for fourteen years, she moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana. There she began her journey of beginning her degree in Early Childhood Education. Camryn was drawn to Philadelphia in the same year that she joined the YB team where she married the love of her life. Camryn has served in the field of education servicing children and young adults for ten years. Camryn states that working with children and young adults is truly her God-given passion. She is known for her heart for people, her bright smile, and her loud laughter. She states that she loves spending time with her husband and family, working out, traveling, and trying new foods. Camryn expresses that she believes she is the young woman that the younger Cammy needed at this stage in her life. It is a full circle moment for her and she is extremely excited about what she will bring to the team.
Development and Communications
Director of Communications
Khalil Bullock is a passionate communications leader hailing from West Philadelphia and a proud Temple University alum (B.A. in Strategic Communications, Public Relations Track, 2018).
With a background that spans corporate, government, agency, and nonprofit sectors—including roles at Tierney Agency and the Urban League of Philadelphia—Khalil has developed a versatile skill set in public relations and strategic communications. Now serving as the Director of Communications at YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School, he oversees marketing and storytelling efforts that elevate the school’s mission and impact.
As a non-traditional student himself, Khalil is deeply committed to amplifying the voices of YouthBuild Philly students, ensuring they feel heard, seen, and valued. His work behind the scenes reflects his dedication to bridging connections between the school community and the young people it serves.
An active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Zeta Omicron Lambda Chapter, Khalil is driven to give back, always seeking meaningful volunteer opportunities, community engagement, and positive connections.
Development and Communications Coordinator
Angel Jarrett-Crenshaw is the Development and Communications Coordinator at YouthBuild Philly Charter School and a graduate of Kutztown University where she received a B.S. in Cinematography, Television, and Media Production.
With a background in social media content creation and filmmaking, Angel supports YouthBuild Philly’s communications team in amplifying the school’s marketing and communication efforts. Angel utilizes her skills to engage with students, alumni, friends, and family of YB on social media and to create lasting memories for current students through photos and videos.
Angel has a strong passion for highlighting diversity in her work, through her position at YB she is given the opportunity to capture students’ joy in a positive way. Outside of work, Angel expresses her creativity in other mediums like songwriting and dancing.
Grants and Compliance
Grants and Data Manager
Paul Luong joined YouthBuild Philly in May 2011 as the Grants and Data Manager overseeing the management of State and Federal grants. Prior to joining YouthBuild, Paul accumulated a decade of experience managing grants, planning the funding distribution for DOH in the southeastern Pennsylvania region, helping design a service tracking software for health clients and managing an AmeriCorps volunteer program. Paul excels in data analysis, translating information into digestible and actionable items. Paul also enjoys efficiency analysis, constantly updating processes to maximize productivity.
Originally from Hong Kong and growing up in Paris, France, Paul knows 5 languages. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Information Science from Johnson and Wales University, RI where he earned a minor in Psychology and took gold in a university-wide math competition. He earned his Masters of Science in Information Systems at Drexel University. In his spare time, Paul enjoys nurturing his creativity, dabbling in cooking, baking, art, music and software design.
Since 2022, neighborhood cats started flocking to Paul and his husband Chris’s house and they are currently taking ownership of the best looking one while taking care of the rest.
WIOA Grants Coordinator
Jen is the WIOA Grants Coordinator at YouthBuild. She grew up in a white, upper-class suburb of Indianapolis and was raised to believe that “success” and stability were direct results of hard work. After college, she headed south to teach high school math through Teach for America. The next two years dissolved everything she thought she understood about the world. She learned about systemic racism, poverty, inequity, and that the mindset she was raised on in regard to “success” and stability was missing a key factor- privilege. She spent the next decade in varying states in charter schools, public schools, and adult education centers in a variety of roles including: instructor, assistant administrator, and program coordinator. These experiences paired with her master’s degree in macro social work fueled her passion for rethinking education and the systems that support and inhibit it. This passion brought her to YouthBuild, a school that acknowledges that the current model of education isn’t working and is designed to better support all students. Outside of work she enjoys gardening, trying new recipes and art forms, and going on hikes and bike rides with her partner, Josh, and two pups, Sammy and Lilly.
Instruction
Director of Instruction
Susan Delp joined the YouthBuild Philly team in the summer of 2024 as the Director of Instruction and comes with twenty-five years of experience in K-12 education. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Georgia Southern University and Master’s Degree in History from Southern Connecticut University. Throughout her years in education, Susan has had the privilege of teaching all grades between 5th-12th in three different states, being a curriculum developer, leading a 7-12 History program for a charter network, and instructionally coaching teachers. Hailing originally from Hatfield, PA, a small town north of Philadelphia, she knew from a young age she wanted to be an educator and the passion, commitment, and excitement she felt all those years ago for this career remains just as strong today. In all her roles, Ms. Delp always leads with a student-first mentality, ensuring that all decisions made are the best ones for students and will push them in their academic and personal growth. Being part of the team that will continue to bring about robust, rigorous, relevant and engaging curriculum for our YouthBuild students is what invigorates Susan the most and is what truly excites her to support the mission of our school. When she is not working, Susan enjoys spending time with her son, Jonathan, reading as many history/historical fiction books as possible and listening endlessly to Taylor Swift (yes, she’s a proud, die-hard Swiftie!).
Director of Instruction
Academics
Math Teacher
Born and raised in Philadelphia by parents who migrated from the Caribbean, Christina was instilled with the importance and power of love, faith, humility, knowledge, and community. It is with these core values that she adopted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s philosophy of education: “Intelligence plus character- that is the goal of true education.” Christina completed her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics at Haverford College before enrolling in UPenn’s Teacher Education Program where she earned her master’s degree in Secondary Education. She has served as a teacher in the School District of Philadelphia and Camden School System as well as an Academic Coordinator at The Community College of Philadelphia’s Gateway to College Program. At YouthBuild, Christina has the unique opportunity of not just being a math teacher, but being a mentor, a community member, and so much more. While Christina counts it a blessing to serve as an educator, what she finds most invaluable is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with students, to learn and to grow together.
Language Arts Teacher
Emma is a literacy educator and writer originally from the Boston area. She studied English and Linguistics as an undergraduate at Carleton College, and received a master’s degree in Literacy Education from the University of Pennsylvania. As an educator, she has worked with K-8 students on phonics skills and publishing projects, started a Writing Center for high school students, and taught first-year composition at a community college. She loves seeing students of all ages gain a deeper understanding of literacy and become more comfortable with new ways of using language. Additional interests include ballroom dancing, listening to podcasts while exploring the city, and bothering her two cats.
Science Teacher
Jeremy Blough joined the YouthBuild Philly Charter School family in August, 2023 as a teacher of science and health education. Originally from San Diego, California, Jeremy attended San Diego State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Geography. Jeremy also went on to earn dual teaching credentials in both social science and science, with an emphasis on biology. Over the course of a 20 year teaching career, Jeremy has passionately served a diverse student population in many different teaching environments, including working with bilingual high school students at MAAC Community Charter School and working with formerly incarcerated adults at Five Keys Schools and Programs. He also served as a mentor teacher and induction coach for new teachers in California, along with being a co-founder of San Diego Refugee Tutoring.
He is passionate about igniting scientific curiosity, fostering environmental stewardship and weaving mental health and social justice into biology curriculum. Jeremy loves family time with his wife, Kim, and five kids ranging in ages from 3 to 20 while enjoying family adventuring in nature. He also loves to travel, hike the Wissahickon, surf, bike around the city and garden. What keeps Jeremy motivated working in a challenging job environment is learning from the resilience of our amazing students and seeing the positive changes that ripple through the community from this special school family.
Mathematics Teacher
Danielle Taraskiewicz began at YouthBuild Philly Charter School on August 2023 as a mathematics teacher. Born in Philly, Danielle had several false starts before graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from Temple University. Danielle bounced between a variety of careers, from paralegal, consultant, or mental health technician before working as a mathematics teacher at Jackson Creek Middle School in Indiana In 2021. Danielle came to the profession in the pursuit of giving people skills that are often looked at as impossible or out of reach, and has an unflinching belief that all students have the ability to learn.
Danielle is a happy mother of a gnome, Naomi, and with her partner is hoping to bring a few more to the Taraskiewicz house. She loves to read, crochet, and get slightly too competitive with board games. She hopes her students are okay with having fun, learning math, and being crushed in Catan.
Language Arts Teacher
Em Brodeur started teaching at YouthBuild Philly Charter School last year, but it feels like she’s been a part of the community for much longer. Em is one of the Language Arts teachers, who holds a Masters in Literature with a focus on creative writing from Simmons College in Boston. She first moved to Philadelphia from Boston over ten years ago to pursue an M.F.A in poetry at Rutgers University, where she began adjuncting and discovered her passion for Adult Education. Em’s been an educator for over ten years and has taught at the middle school, high school, and college level. She prioritizes building intentional relationships with her students so that her classroom is a space where everyone can be open, honest, and vulnerable. Outside of being a teacher, Em is a poet and a visual artist who brings that creative versatility into the classroom. She’s both initiated and coached Poetry Slam teams at the high school and university level. Last year, Em and a committee of students published a poetry and rap zine titled, YB, What’s Next, which highlights the class of 2024’s creative writing. She plans to continue to develop this project into a YB Philly press that publishes work written solely by youth and young adults in Philadelphia.
Social Justice Teacher
Shaneika N. Haughton is a native of Jamaica who migrated to Philadelphia in October of 2000. She is the mother of two brilliant young men, Andre Jr and Jace. She joined YouthBuild Philly Charter School in August 2024 as the Social Justice Educator. Shaneika earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Political Science from the first Historically Black Degree-Granting University in the United States, Lincoln University. She furthered her education at Boston University by earning a Master’s of Criminal Justice. In December 2022, Shaneika graduated from Saint Joseph’s University with a Master’s of Secondary Education concentrating in 7th-12th Social Studies. Shaneika is currently pursuing a Doctor of Educational Leadership at Saint Joseph’s University. Throughout Shaneika’s career as an educator, she has fervently taught in marginalized communities in Maryland and the City of Philadelphia. In her role, Shaneika provides a clear vision to create a culturally responsive community, one where equity and love remain at the center. Her goal is to teach her students how to become socially conscious and to fulfill their potential as global leaders by being critical thinkers.
College and Career Partnerships
Associate Director of Partnerships and Alumni Success
Zurrell is a proud Philadelphia native. He supports his beloved Eagles and 76ers on the good and bad days. The city of Philadelphia, the place where he grew up and calls home, has made a major impact in Zurrell’s life. The journey he is on allows him to give back to the city and the community with the hopes that he is able to make an impactful change for others.
Zurrell has been a longtime supporter of YouthBuild prior to joining the organization in 2018. He graduated from YouthBuild in 2009 and has since gone on to earn his Associate’s degree from Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology and Bachelor’s degree from Temple University.
Zurrell has served a year of service through AmeriCorps VISTA for the Police Athletic League of Philadelphia helping bring free youth programs to inner-city youth. He has also operated as a Sports Coordinator and Youth Program Director for the Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA coordinating and developing youth programs for families and youth in the North Philadelphia community.
In 2017, Zurrell decided to make a change and focus more on supporting the next generation of young adults. Zurrell was presented with an opportunity to become a temporary Career Coach at YouthBuild. Success as a Career Coach has provided him a greater opportunity to serve as a Career Coordinator, Success Coordinator and now the Associate Director of Partnerships and Alumni Success working in the Student and Alumni Success Department. Zurrell hopes to use his story to inspire students and alumni to become the next generation of leaders.
Specialized Services
School Psychologist, Compliance Coordinator and Right to Know Officer
Frederick Bader is the School Psychologist and Compliance Coordinator. He first joined the YouthBuild Philadelphia Community in 1998, as the Director of Case Management and the School Psychologist, because Dr. Bader has always believed that education is critically important for disadvantaged youth. Over the intervening years, he has been fortunate to have contributed to the YB Community in various other positions, including Director of Human Resources, Director of Specialized Services, and the School’s Compliance Coordinator. Dr. Bader’s educational and work backgrounds are as diverse as his work experiences at YouthBuild. He earned a Bachelor degree at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA; a Juris Doctor (law) degree at Villanova University; a Master in Counseling Psychology at Temple University; and a Doctor of Psychology degree at Widener University. His now 26-year career in education—which included the first seven years of Mastery Charter Schools—was preceded by a 10-year legal career, which included a stint at the City Solicitor’s Office where he practiced environmental law. Originally from Upper Darby in Delaware County, Dr. Bader has lived in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia for more than 40 years. He continues to research and write about his family—branches of which can be traced back both to colonial Philadelphia and to 1500s England and Germany.
Special Education Teacher
Erin Young is both a Special Education Teacher and a licensed Reading Specialist. She has worked in the Special Education field for over 12 years. She graduated with her Bachelors in Special Education from East Carolina University and later got her Masters in Education and Reading Specialist from Cabrini University. Erin continues to advocate for students to ensure they receive the best possible educational experience. When she is not working she enjoys spending time with friends and family.
Special Education Teacher
Shannon is a Special Education Teacher at YouthBuild Philadelphia. She attended undergrad at West Chester University and graduate school at St. Joe’s University. Prior to joining YB in 2020, Shannon spent 10 years teaching students with language-based learning difficulties and 3 years as a 9th grade Dean of Students. Shannon is very passionate about being an advocate for young people and supporting them in achieving their goals. When she’s not working, Shannon enjoys spending time in nature with her dog Clyde.
English Language Teacher/Coordinator
Rebecca grew up mostly in Beloit, WI. She joined YouthBuild as an AmeriCorps member in 2002, having just completed a Sociology degree at Smith College. Over the next 4 years, the students at YB inspired her to become a teacher. She returned to school to earn a Master’s of Education in Reading/Writing/Literacy at UPenn and went on to work as a high school literacy specialist. She returned to YB in 2017 as English Language Coordinator, collaborating with colleagues to support multilingual students and now also teaching Language Arts. Rebecca holds PA teaching certificates for secondary English, Reading Specialist, and ESL Program Specialist and a graduate certificate in Restorative Practices from IIRP. She lives in South Philly with her son. When not at school, Rebecca enjoys being outdoors, baking, scrolling TikTok, crocheting, and organizing park clean ups and fun events for kids in Mifflin Square Park.
Director of Specialized Services
Fatimah Johnson joined YB in August 2022 as a member of the Specialized Services team. Fatimah is a Brooklyn native who has spent most of her adulthood living in various US cities including Cambridge (Boston, MA), Chicago and Los Angeles, before settling in Philadelphia. Prior to becoming an educator, Fatimah completed her BA in Sociology/Anthropology from Swarthmore College and a MA in Anthropology from the University Chicago. A volunteer assignment as a literacy tutor for an adult learner inspired Fatimah to pursue a career in Special Education. Fatimah started teaching in a self contained special education classroom in Los Angeles through an alternative certification program. While still on the West Coast she earned a MA from California State University of Los Angeles in Special Education Mild to Moderate Disabilities. After teaching for many years, Fatimah earned the Special Education Supervisor Certification as part of a post MA program at Edinboro University. The 2024-2025 school year marks the beginning of Fatimah’s 20th year as a Special Educator. In her role as Director of Specialized Services, Fatimah serves as an advocate for students with diverse needs. She sees her role as critical towards helping students identify how they will navigate independently after they finish high school. In her spare time Fatimah likes to knit, take long walks, and sample new cuisines. She also spends lots of time with her husband, Seth, and their daughter, Quinn.
Special Education Teacher
Eric Sidener is a Special Education teacher at YouthBuild Philly. He has taught in public and charter schools in and around Philadelphia, and has been delighted to see how much fun it is to help young people learn to push past obstacles, to learn and to grow. He went to Temple University for his BA, UPenn for his Master’s in Education, and back to Temple U for additional instruction.
Eric enjoys cooking for his wife and 3 children, training his dog, Wombo, and is also interested in nearly everything in the world from canoeing, camping, and hang gliding to carpentry and plastic recycling.
Supplemental Special Education Teacher
Nya Terrell is a Supplemental Special Education teacher and Case Manager at YouthBuild Philly. Nya received her M.Ed. in Special Education and a M. Ed.in Multicultural Education from Eastern University. Nya started her career teaching at Pennsylvania School for the Deaf and Overbrook School for the Blind, teaching a high school Deaf-Blind class. Nya was the lead teacher of the nonverbal Autistic support class for the last fourteen years at Mastery Charter School in Philadelphia.
Nya owns and operates a licensed family daycare, “Raising Kingdom Tots.” There she provides children an excellent early childcare education, while upholding and maintaining valuable staff training designed to develop, nurture, and protect children from 6 months to 5 years old.
Nya believes all children have the potential to learn and achieve despite any disability, challenge, or obstacle. She enjoys discovering their strengths and areas of focus to target their learning style. Nya believes in celebrating and encouraging the student during the learning process. She is most fulfilled seeing their success in the classroom, in early childhood settings, or in the work field.
Special Education Teacher
April joined YouthBuild Philly Charter School in August 2024 as a Special Education Teacher. April attended La Salle University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Middle School and Special Education. April continued graduate studies at Arizona State University. She completed her graduate studies and earned a Master of Arts degree in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis). April became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in August 2022. April is enthusiastic about empowering youth and facilitating their journey toward success. In her spare time, April enjoys going to the beach, spending time with family/friends, and going out to eat.
Counseling
School Social Worker
Nafeesa was born and raised in Philadelphia (South Philly to be specific). Nafeesa attended Drexel University and earned a bachelors degree in Health Services Adminstartion in 2013. After some life experience, Nafeesa went back to school and earned her Master’s degree for Social Work from Widener University in 2023.
As a Social Worker Nafeesa has worked in many settings including, hospitals, mental health institutions, children and youth and finally education. Most recently Nafeesa worked as the Conflict Resolution Specialist for a middle school in Plymouth Meeting PA. Prior to that, she was employed as a Classroom Counselor at Mastery Charter’s Simon Gratz High School in North Philly.
Nafeesa loves running and she completed the Broad Street Run twice so far (2023 and 2024) Nafeesa is currently training for the Rocky Run occurring in November this year. Nafeesa and her husband Rashief celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary in this past June. They share two beautiful daughters Brooklyn and Zara.
Nafeesa loves working with youth and supporting them as they navigate life while pursuing their education, it is her passion, and she cannot wait to start this new journey with everyone at YouthBuild Philly.
School Social Worker
Catherine Coleman joined YouthBuild Philly Charter School in August 2024 as the School Social Worker. A New Jersey native, Catherine earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Wesleyan University in Connecticut. After nearly a decade working with City Year, an AmeriCorps service learning and leadership development program in New York City and Boston, Catherine returned to school to earn her Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. Since graduating, Catherine spent seven years as part of the social work team at Simon Gratz Mastery Charter High School in Nicetown, followed by two years as a School Counselor at Abington Friends School in Jenkintown. Catherine is excited to join the YouthBuild Philly community – a school where she can provide social service supports while empowering young adults to serve and lead our city. Catherine’s favorite place to be is near water with her husband and their three kids.
Student Life
Director of School Culture
My name is Malcolm Eleby, and I was born and raised in Philadelphia, initially in the Francisville area before moving to Germantown. I spent three years at St. Bonaventure University and completed my final year at Northern Kentucky University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership. Currently, I am finishing my Master’s in School Leadership at Wilmu. With 11 years of experience in education, I currently serve as the Director of School Culture at YouthBuild Philly. In my free time, I enjoy sports, listening to music, traveling, and sharing laughter and fun with friends and family. I am married and a proud father of two. My greatest inspiration comes from my students, as I see my son, my daughter, and even myself in them. They drive me to work tirelessly to create a supportive and enriching educational environment at YouthBuild Philly.
Dean of Students
Shamar Smith is the Dean of Students at YouthBuild Philly, charged with supporting student life and managing the schools climate and culture. Smith born and raised in Philadelphia has worked within the education sector for over 8 years in multiple capacities.
In his previous role at Simon Gratz as a Classroom Counselor for the school’s anchor program, he supported over 1,100 students.
In his spare time, Smith enjoys spending time with his family and daughter and traveling occasionally, both internationally and locally.
Dean of Students
Tia Llopiz joined YouthBuild Philly Charter in August of 2024. Originally from Brooklyn, NY; however she is no stranger to Philadelphia! Llopiz attended Delaware State University where she became a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Since relocating to Philadelphia officially in 2016 she has worked with Philly youth and young adults in numerous capacities, such as a coach at the Achieving Independence Center, Residential Services Coordinator with Project Home. Llopiz truly prides herself in seeing students holistically, while utilizing trauma informed practices in order to be understanding yet firm in the upholding of the YouthBuild Mission. Llopiz has taught numerous lectures at Thomas Jefferson University on LGBTQIA+ Health Disparities and Trauma Informed Care. She looks forward to bringing her passion for equitable education for all to YouthBuild Charter School as a Dean.
Attendance Specialist
Mr. Rich has been teaching at YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School since 2016. He specializes in collaborating with teachers to ensure that instructional materials are suitable for all learners. Mr. Rich supports students both inside and outside of the classroom to ensure that they are moving towards their goals. In his free time, he enjoys photography, traveling, eating, bike riding, and sports.
AmeriCorps Community Projects Coordinators
Community Projects Coordinator
Born and raised in North Philadelphia, an experience that has deeply shaped Isaiah’s outlook on life and work. Currently, he serves as a Community Projects Coordinator at YouthBuild and his interests include simple, yet fulfilling activities such as watching movies, drawing, and bowling.
Growing up in a challenging neighborhood and being raised by a single mother of six, has taught Isaiah invaluable life lessons early on. This background instilled in him a strong sense of resilience and self-reliance, qualities that align with the mission of YouthBuild. He understand firsthand the struggles of those who must rely solely on their own abilities for survival and growth.
At YB, Isaiah’s goal is to inspire others to transcend their circumstances and embrace the opportunities life presents. Isaiah strives to encourage his community members to realize their full potential and seize every opportunity, even when it seems like the world has stopped.
Community Projects Coordinator
Community Projects Coordinator
AmeriCorps VISTAs
Student and Alumni Success
Director of Student Success
Sam Cranford first joined the YouthBuild Philly team in 2021 as a Student Success Coordinator. During her time at YouthBuild, Sam has worked her way up into various leadership positions, including Lead Social Worker, and now serves as the Director of Student Success. Sam is a native of Delaware County, PA (but she doesn’t say “wooder”) and has been living in Philadelphia since 2017. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Villanova University and her Master of Social Work degree from West Chester University. Sam is a licensed Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania and is currently pursuing her clinical licensure. She also holds Educational Specialist I and Certified Trauma Professional certifications. Sam started her social work career working with adults involved in the criminal legal system and was motivated to transition to the education field upon hearing of her clients’ negative experiences with the education system as children and adolescents. As a first-generation, low income college student, Sam has a passion for working with young adults and helping them navigate this crucial developmental period, which motivated her desire to work at YouthBuild Philly. In her role, Sam provides guidance and leadership to help her team support students through the various barriers they face on their journey to reclaim their education. She is a strong advocate for student mental health and strives to create a proactive mental health culture at YouthBuild. In her free time, Sam loves listening to music, traveling, and kickboxing. Above all else, she loves to spend time with her four-legged son, Sully, and her loved ones.
Student Advisor
Rae Robinson is a dedicated Student Advisor at YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School, where she is passionate about empowering young people to reach their full potential. Originally from East Stroudsburg, PA, Rae holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Temple University and has a professional background in case management. Her commitment to YouthBuild stems from a deep belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of providing opportunities for growth to every student. In her free time, Rae enjoys embracing a lifestyle that values discovery, creativity, and well-being. Some of her hobbies include traveling, fitness, interior design, and cooking.
Student Advisor
Shamera Boozer was born in West Philadelphia. She attended Spelman College where she got her bachelor’s degree in Art and minored in Psychology. She also obtained a Full Stack Software Development certification at the University of Pennsylvania. Shamera began working at YouthBuild Charter School in 2015 through the ELECT program. Her passion for education and mentoring naturally evolved into a deep commitment to supporting students leading her to become a Student Advisor here at YouthBuild in 2021. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting with baking, particularly cupcakes, as it allows her to explore creativity and attention to detail. She finds great fulfillment in nurturing and raising her daughter, Jaiyde Elaine, which remains a significant and rewarding aspect of her life.
Student Advisor
Donheen Boone was borned and raised in Philadelphia, specifically South Philadelphia. Donheen attended Ursinus College where he received a Bachelors of Arts in American History. Post college, Donheenventured into a career in education. Throughout Donheen’s career in Education he has worn many hats. Donheen started out as a Americorps member right here at Youthbuild. Not long after that Donheen taught at a middle school, then going on to be a Dean at a High School and becoming a Director as well. Donheen has been working in Public Charters schools for 10 years. Now, as a Student Advisor at Youthbuild Donheen will be continuing to support the youth in a different capacity. Some things that Donheen enjoys are attending concerts, hiking, spending time with his family and playing pool. Donheen believes that Youthbuild is truly a unique place. He has witnessed how YB welcomes students at face value where many other places may have not. Donheen knows that the youth are the future so he knows how fortunate it is to be a part of their growth, even with the good, bad and ugly.
Student Advisor
Briah Kennedy joined YouthBuild Philly as a Student Advisor, driven by her passion for guiding and empowering students to achieve their academic and personal aspirations. A Philadelphia native, Briah embarked on her academic journey at Community College of Philadelphia, graduating with an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts – Social and Behavioral Science with honors. She continued her education at West Chester University, where she earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work, graduating Summa Cum Laude and maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Briah’s career in community empowerment began with roles as a mentor, progressing to positions such as Program Specialist and Group Lead at Girls Inc., Social Work Intern at Mastery Charter School, and Family Services Coordinator at The Salvation Army. In these roles, Briah dedicated herself to supporting families from diverse backgrounds, assisting them in navigating challenges, accessing crucial resources, and combating homelessness.
Motivated by her personal journey of overcoming adversity, Briah is deeply committed to serving as a supportive figure for YouthBuild Philly students. She believes in their potential to surpass societal expectations and achieve greatness through education and mentorship. Beyond her professional commitments, Briah finds joy in exploring culinary delights, embarking on shopping adventures, crafting intricate LEGO creations, and enjoying relaxing walks when weather permits.
Student Advisor
Egypt Worthy joined YouthBuild Philly as a Student Advisor in August 2024. Born in Philadelphia, and raised in Southwest Philadelphia, Egypt attended Neumann University where she obtained her B. A. in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. Afterward, Egypt worked in customer service and then served with AmeriCorps NCCC 2015-2016 as a FEMA corps member supporting communities impacted by natural disasters. As a FEMA corps member, Egypt served on a team of eight where she traveled for eleven months working with FEMA employees. Once her service year was completed, Egypt powerfully served with City Year Philadelphia 2016-2017 as a corps member on a team of fifteen working with third graders in Math, Literacy, and Social Emotional Learning. It was then that Egypt grew a passion for service and wanted to continue working to help create safe and inclusive spaces for children that she completed a second term with City Year HQ as a Senior Corps member 2017-2018 on the Care Force team. Care Force is the Headquarters civic engagement team where Egypt and her teammates helped to beautify various communities nationwide by leading volunteers in mural, landscape, and construction projects Furthermore, Egypt went on to work with youth ages 17-22 experiencing homelessness in the Germantown area as well as worked as a Resource Coordinator with a caseload of over 10 women and families who were in shelter or in rapid rehousing to connect them with mental health resources as well as housing.
Egypt became part of the City Year Philadelphia community as a staff member in 2020 as an Impact Manager where she managed over thirty corps members from 2020-2024 at two different school partnerships. Egypt’s team worked as mentors and tutors to help decrease the dropout rates by facilitating academic and SEL sessions daily, leading events and initiatives for the students and staff as well as providing after-school programming two to three times a week. Egypt worked alongside school staff building connections over the past four years in her role as well as building a strong rapport with the organization’s partners. While in the Impact Manager role, Egypt completed her three-year MSW program and graduated in May 2024 with a 4.0 GPA and was part of two honor societies. Egypt’s focus has always been how can she be the best support to individuals to enhance the skills they already possess while also being passionate about mental health and the impact that occurs on black and brown youth. This is why Egypt applied to become a Student Advisor with YouthBuild to continue working with students to ensure they reach their goals while promoting equity and inclusivity. During Egypt’s free time, she enjoys spending time with her partner Monique while raising their two cats Milo and Marco.
Student Advisor
Linquoia Walker, a Student Advisor at YouthBuild, hails from Southwest Philadelphia. He earned his B.S. degree in Sociology from Lincoln University of PA in 2021 and is currently pursuing an M.A. degree in Human Services at his Alma Mater, which he is set to complete by the end of 2024. His ultimate goal is to use his Education and experience to make a significant impact in the field of Education and social services.
Linquoia has experience teaching elementary and middle school students while working at Global Leadership Academy SouthWest and ICS West Charter School. He has also been a Literacy Coach to college students pursuing a career in Education, teaching curriculum and training on maintaining positive classroom management for early childhood children at the Center For Black Education Development. Linquoia has social work experience, where he ensured that all resident needs were met and provided with resources at Care Pavilion Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. Before joining the YouthBuild Team, Linquoia had the pleasure of serving as Dean of Students for High School students at a private school named CB Community Schools, overseeing all disciplinary and behavioral challenges related to students and teachers while maintaining a positive culture, implementing Restorative Practices and Social-Emotional Learning within the school.
When he’s not working, Linquoia enjoys a variety of hobbies. He’s an avid gamer and particularly enjoys playing NBA 2K and Call Of Duty on his PlayStation 5. To relax, he often goes roller skating while listening to R&B. He also loves playing basketball for exercise, and is a fan of chess and cooking, especially on the grill. Linquoia’s love for cooking comes from his family, and he eagerly looks forward to holidays when he can enjoy his family’s unique dishes, especially his Brother’s famous seafood salad.
Linquoia’s work at YouthBuild is not just a job, but a calling that allows him to fulfill his life passion. His deep-rooted commitment to the community where he was born and raised is palpable. He is intentional about positively impacting the youth and helping them develop into successful individuals. He firmly believes that working in education and urban communities is the gateway to connecting and serving the next generation in society.
Workforce Development
Building Trades
Associate Director of Building Trades
Building Trades Instructor
Building Trades Instructor
Lowell Nottage, a Philadelphia native, is a 2019 alum of YouthBuild Philly’s Greenbuild program and a graduate of Thaddeus Stevens School of Technology in Welding Technology. A skilled welder, glassblower, and avid skater, Lowell now serves as a Greenbuild Instructor at YouthBuild Philly, where he brings his passion and expertise back to the program that shaped his career.
As a dedicated member of the Capital Campaign team for the past four years, Lowell has been instrumental in networking and fundraising efforts that have helped bring the new YouthBuild Philly school building to life. Now teaching his own class in this long-awaited space, he looks forward to supporting students and advancing YouthBuild’s mission. With a unique perspective as both an alum and an instructor, Lowell is excited to continue making an impact on the students, staff, and community through his work.
Business & Entrepreneurship
Business and Entrepreneurship Teacher
Part-Time Business & Entrepreneurship Teacher
Culinary Arts and Wellness
Culinary Arts and Wellness Instructor
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Devita Austin pursued her education at Manor College, focusing on communication, and further honed her culinary skills at JNA Institute from 2007 to 2011. Her passion for the culinary arts led her to her current role as a culinary instructor at YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School. Beyond cooking, Devita has a deep love for sports and enjoys playing pool in her spare time.
Happily married to her spouse, Jade, Devita is a proud parent to their 6-year-old daughter, Blake, and they share their home with a beloved 2-year-old dog named Drizzy Drake. Her experience at YouthBuild has been incredibly inspiring, reinforcing her belief in the importance of a solid foundation. As a culinary instructor, Devita strives not only to teach cooking skills but also to instill a strong sense of craftsmanship and dedication in her students. She firmly believes that a true chef helps create cooks, and her role at YouthBuild allows her to contribute meaningfully to building that foundation for each student.
Culinary Arts Instructor
Ms. Falecia Whitfield is the newest culinary instructor starting in the Fall of 2024 at Youth Build Philadelphia. Whitfield has had a successful and fulfilling career in culinary arts with over 29 years in the industry. She now is excited to share her experiences the youth of Philadelphia! Whitfield graduated from Johnson & Wales University as a dean’s list honoree and has served on the school’s special functions team. Post graduation she went directly into commercial restaurants managing the expansion of major food chains such as Longhorn Steakhouse. Her love for cooking did not start in the classroom. It started at home cooking for her family, friends and in the community; often being asked to cook for those who were ill with the hopes of aiding their recovery.
Continuing her call to cook for those in need, Whitfield has spent a majority of her time supporting the medical field. For the past 20+ years she has been in various positions in New York City, Philadelphia, and New Jersey’s premier nursing homes. She has served some of our society’s most vulnerable as a menu planning consultant, dietary technician, executive chef, and ultimately food service director where she has set high standards for operations, meal quality, and fellowship events for our elderly.
While doing so, Whitfield has always had a knack for recognizing and developing talent. “No matter where I am in my career, it has always been important to ensure that the next generation is getting the chance to learn from those of us who have experience and can give them a head start in this industry. This is why I am so excited to teach at Youth Build Philadelphia!”
Whitfield believes that in this world economy it does not matter how one starts off in life or what a person is currently going through, mastering an essential skill such as culinary arts will allow them to sustain themselves for a lifetime.
When not working to feed the community, she enjoys spending time with her family including her eldest daughter Niasia, son David, and foster-grandson. Ms. Falecia Whitfield looks forward to working with every student and hopes that the career and life experiences she plans to share will inspire the next generation of young chefs.
Healthcare
Healthcare Instructor
Denisha Robinson is a Philadelphia native and the Healthcare Instructor at YouthBuild Philly with 5 years of experience shaping and inspiring black and brown students in underserved communities. Specializing in social emotional learning and professional development , Denisha uses that experience to empower students to take control of their education and progress towards their dreams.
By focusing on access to quality education, Denisha has been able to put her Sports and Recreation Management degree she earned at Temple University to good use. Over the years, she has shifted her lenses from using sports as a vehicle to drive education to transforming students ability to critically think about how they impact themselves and people in their community. The best part about Denisha’s job is seeing her students reach their goals despite what they had to overcome. It is her goal to make sure all her students have access to quality education and support.
When she is not at YouthBuild Philly, Denisha is an avid world traveler and a full time boy mom.
Healthcare Instructor
YouthBuild Philly has been named a Top Workplace in Philadelphia for six years running. Interested in working with us?
