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The Workshop School
About Us
Our Vision
We envision graduates who value learning, growth, and building community; and know how to shape their lives and our world
Our Approach
We immersed our students in a project-based curriculum centered around real-world contexts and that are tied to career pathways, providing students with challenging projects that require critical thinking and skill development.
A Unique Partnership
The Workshop School was established in 2011 by Workshop Learning, formerly known as Project-Based Learning, Inc. Initially created as an alternative senior-year program for Philadelphia School District students, it has since expanded into a four-year high school as a part of the district's Network of Innovative Schools.
The school continues to receive the full support of the school district and its founding non-profit. This unique partnership ensures
Workshop teachers have the tools needed to implement engaging, hands-on projects for students.
Our Team
Administration
Ayanna Walker
I am the proud Principal of The Workshop School. I have been in Education for over 22 years and it has been one of the best parts of my life. I love supporting the growth and development of our school community and thinking of ways to work together, to get better.
WORKSHOP ONENESS for the win!
Principal
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Matt Riggan
Matt is a co-founder of the Workshop School and currently serves as Executive Director of Workshop Learning, the school's nonprofit partner. He plays a lead role in research and development, operational support, fundraising and advocacy for the school. Prior to launching Workshop, Matt was a Senior Researcher at the Penn Graduate School of Education, where remains as an Adjunct Assistant Professor. When not at work, Matt runs, skis, cooks and hangs out with his awesome wife, two sons, and Labrador.
Executive Director, Workshop Learning
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Andrew Walker
Grew up in Darby, PA. Graduated from West Chester University (undergrad) and Cabrini College (grad). Taught for 12 years before becoming an administrator. Is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated.
Assistant Principal
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Simon Hauger
Bio Coming Soon...
Director | Workshop Learning
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Teaching Team
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Hannah Gann
Ms. Gann has taught in classrooms ranging from preschool through high school, from West Philly to Eastern Rwanda. She is passionate about connecting classrooms and communities, and teaching students how to apply their gifts to impact the world around them. She is also a member of the Racial Justice Organizing Committee and The West Philadelphia Participatory Defense Hub. Feel free to reach out to her if you or a loved one ever needs support fighting a court case, or navigating any part of the judicial, criminal, or penal systems.
Advisor | History Teacher
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Douglas Cox
I’ve been in urban education for 20 years in Philadelphia . I’ve graduated from Claflin University with a bachelors in Business Administration and my masters degree is in education . Helping young people unleash their creativity and passion motivates me daily.
Advisor | Math Teacher
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Nate Kim
Nate Kim studied Math, Economics, and Music at the University of Delaware, where he worked as a tutor and classroom assistant. Afterwards, he embarked on a series of jobs in his early 20s — bartender, daycare worker, tech startup analyst — before finally realizing his passion for teaching and returning to education through Drexel's Teacher Residency Program. He is excited to be bringing his passions for real world and interdisciplinary learning to the Workshop School!
Advisor | Teacher
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Rebeckah Rivera
Hey Workshop, you can call me Ms. Rivera. I'm originally from Ogden, Utah and previously taught in New York City for 3 years. I'm an Exceptional Ed teacher in the English department. I love reading, nature, cooking, art and travel. I have a husband and a teacup yorkie named Gigi.
Exceptional Ed Teacher
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Scott Nelsen
I was raised in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and earned a B.A. in Journalism after attending the University of Maryland and Arizona State. Next, I traveled up and down the West Coast residing in Arizona, California, and Oregon. Pursuing my Master's in Education at Cabrini University brought me back to the East Coast. My wife, Christine, is a nurse and my son, Graham, 3, is an aspiring artist and avid reader. This is my seventh year teaching in Philadelphia and I'm grateful to have found my role at the Workshop School.
Advisor | English Teacher
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Seth Carter
I began teaching at the age of 35 at Multicultural Academy in Philadelphia. I spearheaded a music and performing arts program that is still vibrant programming today. I taught 6 years at Imhotep Charter High school where I learned to facilitate an Afrocentric curriculum. I am now an advisor at the Workshop school were I plan to finish out my career as a teacher.
Advisor | English Teacher
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Dan Shahar
I graduated with a BS in Biology from Temple University. After graduating, I had an internship with the American Conservation Experience helping the US Fish and Wildlife Service with several nationwide projects. I am currently part of the Citizens & Scholars Teaching Fellowship. At The Workshop School I teach Biology and help with Math classes.
Teacher
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Shannon Lane
Hi, my name is Ms. Shannon. I'm a Teaching Assistant here at the Workshop School and I enjoy what I do 100%! I LOVE having a part in helping students with learning and growth development. Being able to work with students is a blessing and it makes my heart happy! Some other things that I also enjoy are writing poetry and attending live jazz concerts. Now that you've learned a little about me, MY BEAUTIFUL BABIES, let's get back to work!❤️
Teaching Assistant
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