Come meet
Our Team
Opportunity Network
DawnLynne Kacer, as Executive Director-Opportunity Network, leads the team responsible for Philadelphia’s multiple pathway programs and the School District’s Re-engagement Center. Previously, she led the School District’s Charter Schools Office monitoring, supporting and evaluating charter schools in Philadelphia.
Before joining the School District in 2015, DawnLynne led the Charter Schools Office for the NYC Department of Education. Before her career in urban public education, DawnLynne was a Senior Consultant for public sector clients in healthcare policy and information technology. She also served as a juvenile court officer hearing cases of abuse/neglect and foster care permanency in Georgia. DawnLynne has a Masters of Education from The Broad Center for the Management of School Systems, a MPP from the University of Michigan, and both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Georgia. DawnLynne is a foster parent, voracious reader, loves to travel, and enjoys old school (black and white darkroom processed) photography.
Favorite Cheesesteak in Philly
What if you have only ever had ONE cheesesteak… does that make it my favorite??? Joking aside, I really only have had just one in my life… but at least it was in Philly!
Education
The Broad Center for the Management of School Systems
Master of Education
University of Michigan
Master of Public Policy
University of Georgia
Bachelor of Arts & Bachelor of Business Administration
Office of Multiple Pathways to Graduation
Bio coming soon!
Education
University of Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Education, Psychological Services
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Bachelor of Arts, African American Studies
Opportunity Network
As the Director of Instructional Resources, Daniel supports the Opportunity Network schools in delivering strong instructional programming to all of their students.
Daniel has been a teacher, teacher coach, and assistant principal in Philadelphia and Camden, NJ for the last 14 years. He began his teaching career at Stetson Middle School in North Philadelphia as a math teacher. He has a passion for working with students and families, and finding solutions to difficult problems. Daniel is originally from a small town in western Kentucky, and has his bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky (Go CATS!) He was a 2006 TFA corps member and has his Master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Daniel loves being outside, building or fixing things around his house, and spending time with his family, including his two active young daughters and his beautiful and talented wife.
Education
University of Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Education, Urban Education
Principal Certification
University of Kentucky
Bachelor of Arts, Economics
Opportunity Network
Seth is a compassionate leader with a commitment to improving education outcomes for youth in foster care or experiencing homelessness. Prior to joining the School District of Philadelphia in August 2019, Seth was an Emerging Leader Fellow with the Stoneleigh Foundation, where he worked to promote post-secondary access for foster youth, and worked with multiple colleges and universities across the state to build programs for youth leaving the foster care system and enrolling in college.
In addition to his work on homeless and foster youth, Seth also has a strong passion for social justice education, economic and racial equity, and LGBTQ rights. Since receiving their masters degree in 2015, Seth has also worked with youth development programs at the Urban Affairs Coalition, and early childhood education improvement with Action for Early Learning at Drexel University and with the Mantua-Haverford Promise Neighborhood.
As the Strategy Analyst for the Opportunity Network, Seth facilitates all data and evaluation initiatives for each program in the Network. In addition, Seth provides training and technical support to assist programs in data literacy and integrity, and how to use data to improve school programming. In their free time, Seth enjoys walking along Penn’s Landing, sewing and designing clothes, and is an avid video gamer.
Favorite Cheesesteak in Philly
Gotta be Delssandro’s!
Education
University of Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Education, Education Policy
University of Northern Colorado
Bachelor of Arts, Sociology
Opportunity Network & Innovation Network
Bio coming soon!
Education
The Re-Engagement Center
Re-Engagement Center
As an Assistant Director with the School District of Philadelphia’s Opportunity Network, Tiana Wilson oversees the Re-Engagement Center, where students, families and community members come in to connect to the many alternative high school diploma programs available in the city.
Tiana has been employed with the District for over a decade, first working in the Office of Family and Community Relations and, then, in the Office of the Chief of School Operations before joining the Office of Multiple Pathways to Graduation. Tiana has a strong commitment to increasing the quality, availability, and accessibility of college and career focused alternative programs for Opportunity Youth in Philadelphia. Tiana holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She enjoys cooking, reading and trips to the beach and is the mother of 2 boys.
Education
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Re-Engagement Center
Aleem joined the School District in 2019. Since then, Aleem has specialized in helping our youth development in the city of Philadelphia. Aleem has committed to aiding students throughout the city to understand the importance of earning a High School Diploma.
Aleem currently serves as Project Assistant for the REC. In this role, Aleem meets with students and parents to coordinate a plan of action for students moving forward in hopes of finishing their high school diploma.
Aleem attended Benjamin Franklin High School where he lettered in Football and earned a athletic scholarship to Millersville University where he earned a B.S. in Communications, with a minor in Athletic Coaching.
In Aleem’s spare time he coaches youth Basketball and Football while spending time with his family.
Favorite Cheesesteak in Philly
Sister Muhammah’s (Salmon Steak)
Education
Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Science, Communications
Minor, Athletic Coaching
Educational Options Program & Re-Engagement Center
Amanda Reach recently joined the School District of Philadelphia as program assistant in the Educational Options Program as well as the Re-Engagement Center.
She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Developmental Psychology and Early Childhood Education from Hunter College. Amanda is currently working towards her Master’s degree in Education Policy at the University of Pennsylvania.
During college, Amanda found her passion in education, working to create and design curriculum for a tutoring center in her neighborhood. She is also interested in socio-emotional learning and how schools can encourage SEL into their curriculum. In her free time, Amanda enjoys exploring new restaurants and learning new recipes!
Education
University of Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Education, Education Policy (Expected 2023)
Hunter College
Bachelor of Arts, Developmental Psychology
Bachelor of Arts, Early Childhood Education
Opportunity Network
Omar Babb is the Philadelphia Higher Education Network for Neighborhood Development (PHENND) VISTA Fellow for the School District of Philadelphia’s Opportunity Network. He is charged with creating a sustainable system and framework for the development and implementation of an external partnerships program.
A graduate of CUNY, Omar holds a BA in Political Science. He grew up in Brooklyn, New York and is excited to get to know the city of Philadelphia and the community where he now lives. Prior to coming to the School District of Philadelphia, he spent time as Bonner for Allegheny College Gateway Office – developing and coordinating programs to assist student development and providing counseling sessions for school aged youth. Shortly after that Omar joined the team of New York Congressman Gregory Meeks where he worked as an Intern collecting and analyzing data, performing community outreach and creating marketing materials. During this time, he was challenged with spreading awareness about the Covid-19 pandemic and with inspiring community engagement in vaccine rollout. Omar is committed to extending educational opportunities for all and developing a strong system of supports for both schools and students.
Favorite Cheesesteak in Philly
Omar has not had the chance to have a Philly cheesesteak yet. Any recommendations?
Education
CUNY York College
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Bard College
Associate of Arts, Liberal Arts
Transition & Continuation
Office of Transition & Continuation
Dedicating his career to the fields of social services and education, Marcus A. De Vose is a passionate administrator, educator, life coach, and youth/family advocate. He has served in community, non-profit, governmental, and faith-based organizations promoting education and human development. Mr. De Vose has held positions such as social worker, instructor, counselor, and administrator. His work includes leading and counseling individuals and families at social service agencies, serving as faculty and teaching at a local university and an education center, and directing teen education and life skills programming. He has spearheaded innovative initiatives such as the Client Engagement Model using a Cognitive-Behavioral Approach, Positive Youth & Social-Emotional Development in alternative settings, and the Apex and Continuation School Models.
While with the School District of Philadelphia, Mr. De Vose fulfilled several roles remaining committed to educational equity and access for all students. He was instrumental in redesigning and developing non-traditional/alternative education schools and practices leading to school support and accountability frameworks, the launch of five new schools, and the implementation of strategic student support, placement and transition services.
Mr. De Vose also plays an active role in his community and serves in community outreach and professional organizations. He is a member of the National Alternative Education Association and the Center for Educational Excellence in Alternative Settings. He also sits on the Advisory Board for a local youth organization and is the Equity and Inclusion Chair for the Social-Emotional Learning Alliance for Pennsylvania. Marcus De Vose earned his bachelor’s degree in Business and Psychology from Temple University, holds a Master of Education in Psychological Studies, and is a certified family life educator. His personal philosophy for education is grounded in a quote from the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education.”
Education
Temple University
Master of Education, Psychological Studies
Bachelor of Arts, Business
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Camelot Academy
Charla Hill joined the Opportunity Network as a Student Transition Liaison (Camelot Academy) in November 2020. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Temple University.
During college, while as a mentor for an Upward Bound program, she found her passion in education. She has been committed to youth development for the past 15 years. In her career, her main priority has always been to advise, support, and motivate young people to recognize their purpose and full potential in life.
In addition to her youth development and advocacy work, Charla’s interests also include Real Estate Investing. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, and exploring Philadelphia’s vibrant food, and spending time with her family.
Favorite Cheesesteak in Philly
Pagano’s Steaks in West Oak Lane.
Education
Temple University
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Camelot Academy East
Rodreen Howell is a Philadelphia native and proud alumni of Benjamin Franklin High School. Graduating third in his high school class, Rodreen was a scholarly student-athlete, and one of the best football players in the public league.
Rodreen received both of his degrees at Cheyney University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality in 2010 and Master in Public Administration 2017.
Rodreen has been employed with the School District of Philadelphia since 2011. He began as a Program Assistant for the Educational Options Program (EOP), tracking grant data and supporting adult students’ transition to post-secondary pathways. Currently, Rodreen continues with the Opportunity Network as a Student Transition Liaison, working with families and helping students grow academically and social-emotionally.
Rodreen has a strong passion for football and mentoring youth. Whether it is sports or life, he wants teens to maximize the moment. “I love to give back to the younger generation the opportunities I missed so that they can take advantage of what I didn’t.”
Favorite Cheesesteak in Philly
My favorite Cheesesteak place in the city is “Delassandros” located on Henry and Walnut lane. If you eating a cheesesteak anywhere else, you are wasting your cheat day!!
Education
Cheyney University
Master of Arts, Public Administration
Bachelor of Science, Hospitality
Benjamin Franklin High School
High School Diploma
Camelot Academy
Marlon has over a decade of experience in the education, psychology and social service field working as a Youth Activity Coordinator/ Career Coordinator, Program Coordinator, Career Agent, Site Manager/ Program Facilitator, In-Home Protective Counselor, School District Administrator and Psychotherapist addressing challenges with adults and “at-risk youth” surrounding education, mental health, occupational guidance, and behavior modification.
He also has several years of experience performing administrative duties in various legal and corporate venues.
Marlon enjoys traveling, roller-skating, dancing/listening to music, watching movies, reading, and enjoying the outdoors.
Education
Chestnut Hill College
Master of Arts, Clinical Psychology (Marriage and Family Therapy)
Temple University
Master of Arts (Partial Completion), Urban Leadership in preparation for Principal/Administrative Certification
Pierce College
Bachelor of Arts, Paralegal Studies (ABA Approved)
John Bartram High School
High School Diploma
Educational Options Program
Educational Options Program
Cameo John is an experienced social worker with over 10 years in social services and education. She is a compassionate advocate for all. Ms. John has worked with adults providing counseling and supportive services in workforce development programs and re-engaging youth and adults into educational programs. She enjoys contributing her wealth of experience through program development, community engagement, and outreach to families.
Currently, Ms. John is the Assistant Director of the Educational Options Program where she continues to help adults earn their high school diplomas and lead successful lives. Ms. John holds a Master of Social Services degree from Bryn Mawr College and is a Licensed Social Worker.
Education
Bryn Mawr College
Master of Social Work
Temple University
Bachelor of Science
South Philadelphia High School EOP
Audrey F. Nock is an instructional leader who serves to improve the capacity of students, and families through her various roles.
Her roles in the School District of Philadelphia have included teacher, grade chair, department coordinator, lead mentor teacher, family-engagement liaison, and new teacher adviser. She has served as a conference presenter focusing on grant development, service learning and project-based instruction.
Mrs. Nock is the recipient of 15 teaching awards and 20 school improvement grants. Additionally, Mrs. Nock is a former University of the Arts adjunct professor and self-proclaimed lifelong learner who is passionate about amplifying instruction, school leadership, and equity.
Education
Northeast High School EOP
Some of Adrienne Staten’s earliest memories are playing “school” in her bedroom and sitting for hours reading books. Born and raised in Philadelphia and a former SDP student, Adrienne Staten has been a teacher with the School District of Philadelphia for 24 years. After high school, she attended Hampton University where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English. Shortly thereafter, Adrienne attended LaSalle University to become a certified teacher of English and Language Arts.
In her 24 year tenure, Adrienne has worn many hats including senior sponsor, peer conflict resolution manager, teen girls group coordinator and of course, EOP site coordinator. She loves to laugh and believes that laughter is truly the best medicine. She has a passion for mentoring and assisting adults as an investment in not only their own personal futures, but to strengthen our communities and society at large.
Favorite Cheesesteak in Philly
Dalessandro’s! Hands down!
Education
Hampton University
Bachelor of Arts, English
LaSalle University
Teacher Certification, English and Language Arts
Benjamin Franklin High School EOP
Diane Wilson is an experienced educator with over 20 years in teaching special education. She is committed to ensuring that all students become successful and socially responsible individuals. She teaches her students to transition from being dependent on others to being interdependent and working with others.
Currently, Diane is the Coordinator of the Educational Options Program (EOP) at Benjamin Franklin High School where she provides outreach, in-reach and up-reach to her students. Through outreach she promotes the importance of students completing their education. Through in-reach she ensures that students get what they need to complete their education as quickly as possible. Through up-reach she focuses on the whole student helping them to become productive citizens.
Diane holds a Masters degree in Educational Administration from Gwynedd Mercy College and a Bachelors degree in Special Education from Temple University. She believes that just because you have been dealt a bad hand in life, that doesn’t mean you have to fold.
Education
Gwynedd Mercy College
Master of Arts, Educational Administration
Temple University
Bachelor of Arts, Special Education