Elevate 215 Celebrates Leaders Advancing School Quality at 2026 Innovate & Inspire Event
Building 21, Young Scholars Charter School, Dr. Debora Carrera, and Dr. Monika Shealey Honored for Their Impact on Philadelphia Education
[Philadelphia, PA] May 14, 2026 — Today, Elevate 215 brought together education, civic, and community leaders from across Philadelphia for its second annual Innovate & Inspire event, celebrating the schools and leaders driving meaningful progress for students across the city. Through storytelling, videos, and remarks, attendees heard directly from educators and leaders working to strengthen school experiences and outcomes for students across Philadelphia.
The event culminated in the presentation of four special honors recognizing excellence in school leadership, innovation, and civic impact: the Innovation Champion Award to Building 21, the Inspiration Impact Award to Young Scholars Charter School, and Civic Champion Awards to Dr. Debora Carrera and Dr. Monika Shealey.
“Every student deserves access to a school experience that helps them develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge to maximize their potential and achieve whatever future they want for themselves,” said Dr. Stacy Holland, Executive Director of Elevate 215. “The individuals and schools recognized tonight are showing what’s possible when educators, civic leaders, and communities stay focused on creating stronger opportunities and outcomes for young people across Philadelphia.”
To honor leaders and schools making a meaningful difference for Philadelphia students, Elevate 215 presented awards reflecting the organization’s core values: innovative school practices, inspiring leadership, and civic partnership.
Innovation Champion Award: Building 21
Building 21 received the Innovation Champion Award for reimagining the ninth grade Algebra 1 experience. Through a mastery-based model, smaller class sizes, individualized supports, and aligned instructional systems, Building 21 has created a more intentional and impactful learning environment for students. Rather than layering on additional initiatives, the school focused on strengthening core instructional practices and aligning coaching, intervention, and classroom support to better meet student needs. The result has been more targeted instruction, increased teacher support, and rising student achievement.
“At Building 21, innovation means investing in the systems and practices that have the greatest impact on students,” said Ben Koch, Principal at Building 21. “We’re grateful for Elevate 215’s partnership and support of this work, and proud of what our educators are building every day to create stronger opportunities and outcomes for students."
Inspiration Impact Award: Young Scholars Charter School
Young Scholars was recognized for its thoughtful approach to strengthening instruction and improving outcomes across its school community. Over the past year, the school has re-centered its work on high-quality curriculum, effective instructional practices, and a relentless focus on academic growth. Through intentional use of data, expanded high-dosage tutoring, and structures that help students actively track their own progress, Young Scholars is building a culture where learners are more engaged, more invested in their success, and better positioned to thrive. The school has also seen improvements in attendance, school culture, and overall engagement—demonstrating the impact of focused, mission-driven leadership.
“Real improvement starts with the willingness to reflect, adapt, and stay focused on what students need most,” said John Amenda, CEO of Young Scholars Charter School. “We are honored to receive this recognition from Elevate 215 and proud of the work our educators and students are doing together every day to create better outcomes and brighter futures.”
Civic Champion Award: Dr. Debora Carrera
Dr. Debora Carrera was recognized for her longstanding commitment to advancing educational opportunities for Philadelphia students and families. A lifelong Philadelphian, Dr. Carrera served the School District of Philadelphia for more than 27 years as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent before becoming the City’s Chief Education Officer under Mayor Cherelle Parker. Throughout her career, she has championed initiatives focused on student opportunity, expanded learning experiences, and stronger school communities. Her leadership continues to help shape a citywide vision for education that supports students both inside and outside the classroom.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition from Elevate 215 and proud to be part of an administration that is making meaningful investments in the future of Philadelphia students,” said Dr. Carrera. “Under Mayor Cherelle Parker’s leadership, we are expanding opportunities for our young people through high-quality school programming, year-round learning experiences, and continued efforts to strengthen and grow the educator pipeline across our city. As someone who grew up in Philadelphia and began my career serving students in the same community that shaped me, this work is a continuation of a lifelong personal drive to help elevate this city.”