Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Leah Young

Philadelphia

Summary

Dynamic leader with a proven track record at Harambee Institute, skilled in program management and community engagement. Expert in culturally responsive education, I secured a five-year grant renewal and enhanced student wellness initiatives. Adept at fostering relationships and utilizing data-driven strategies to elevate academic success and support under-resourced communities.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Wellness

St. James Middle School
Philadelphia
08.2023 - Current
  • Lead the design and implementation of schoolwide wellness services supporting students’ social, emotional, and physical health
  • Supervise counseling and health staff while collaborating with leadership to align wellness initiatives with academic goals
  • Develop referral systems, coordinate care, and lead community engagement efforts
  • Promote equity and best practices through proactive, culturally responsive programming that addresses the needs of under-resourced communities

Program Director, 21st CCLC Out-of-School Time Grant

Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School
Philadelphia
09.2017 - 07.2023
  • Authored and secured renewal of the 21st CCLC grant, later leading to a five-year funding extension
  • Directed full implementation of the program while maintaining federal compliance and reporting requirements
  • Supervised instructional staff, developed enrichment curriculum, and collaborated with leadership to align after-school offerings with school goals
  • Led data collection, progress monitoring, and continuous program evaluation

6th Grade ELA Teacher | 2nd Grade Teacher (Years 1–2)

Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School
Philadelphia
08.2017 - 06.2023
  • Designed and delivered engaging, standards-aligned lessons rooted in PA Common Core
  • Developed strong, supportive relationships with students and families to promote academic success and holistic development
  • Fostered inclusive classroom environments and implemented systems for behavior and academic support
  • Used data to inform differentiated instruction and participated in schoolwide professional learning initiatives

Cooperating Teacher

Albany Community Charter School
Albany
08.2012 - 06.2017
  • Supported lead teachers in delivering differentiated instruction across core content areas
  • Facilitated small group learning and led lessons in science and social studies
  • Maintained a structured, student-centered classroom and contributed to data analysis for instructional planning

Administrative Assistant to Principal

New Covenant Charter School
Albany
09.2009 - 06.2010
  • Provided high-level administrative support to the principal and Board of Directors
  • Managed communication, scheduling, document filing, and staff support
  • Oversaw procurement, supply ordering, and maintained a professional and welcoming front office environment

Community Outreach Coordinator

The Brighter Choice Foundation
Albany
05.2007 - 06.2009
  • Collaborated with the charter development team to review applications, support school openings, and assist with renewal processes
  • Played a key role in transitioning schools from application to physical launch
  • Led family and community engagement efforts through presentations, strategic outreach, and public education on charter school initiatives

Education

Independent Studies -

Hudson Valley Community College
Troy, NY
01.2012

Elementary Education and Special Education -

Grand Canyon University

Skills

  • Administrative and program management
  • Charter school operations
  • Compliance and regulations
  • Relationship building and collaboration
  • Culturally responsive and trauma-informed education
  • Data-driven instructional planning
  • Classroom management strategies
  • Student engagement techniques
  • Microsoft Office proficiency
  • iOS platform expertise
  • Team leadership skills
  • Community engagement initiatives

Timeline

Director of Wellness

St. James Middle School
08.2023 - Current

Program Director, 21st CCLC Out-of-School Time Grant

Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School
09.2017 - 07.2023

6th Grade ELA Teacher | 2nd Grade Teacher (Years 1–2)

Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School
08.2017 - 06.2023

Cooperating Teacher

Albany Community Charter School
08.2012 - 06.2017

Administrative Assistant to Principal

New Covenant Charter School
09.2009 - 06.2010

Community Outreach Coordinator

The Brighter Choice Foundation
05.2007 - 06.2009

Independent Studies -

Hudson Valley Community College

Elementary Education and Special Education -

Grand Canyon University
Leah Young