As part of our ongoing commitment to expanding access to quality design education, the Design Education Program recently completed its first semester of in-classroom learning with high school students across Philadelphia.

Through our partnership with the School District of Philadelphia, we collaborated with two classes at The U School and one class at Strawberry Mansion High School. While our previous high school workshops introduced students to architecture and design through short-form experiences, these multi-week programs created space for deeper exploration and hands-on learning.

At The U School, Casey Mellon’s class explored the relationship between storytelling and design through the book “Buck” by MK Asante. Using narrative as a starting point, students translated literary themes into visual and spatial concepts that reflected their own perspectives and lived experiences.

In a second classroom at The U School, Mr. Hayes guided students through the process of designing and constructing functional tabletop lamps. As they explored light, structure, and form, students applied STEM principles to create original lighting designs that combined creativity with technical problem-solving.

Meanwhile, at Strawberry Mansion High School, Ms. Harvey’s class examined the connection between design and forensics through layered collage work. Students used research methods including mapping, observation, documentation, and analysis to better understand environments and human behavior. Through the process, they gained insight into how designers use evidence-based thinking to shape informed and impactful solutions.

These programs were made possible through the support of incredible design professionals and student mentors, including teams from Ballinger, Strada, WRT, 4 Walls Interior Design, and Thomas Jefferson University students. Their collaboration helped create engaging, relevant curriculum that continues to strengthen our K–12 mission and introduce students to future pathways in design.