Our ABA-trained instructors bring passion, expertise, and a supportive approach to every lesson. Get to know the dedicated professionals guiding every skater’s journey.
AJ Kohn founded SK8 Edu, which has grown into a major skateboarding enterprise including Rad World skatepark and the Skateboard Academy of Philadelphia. As a professional skateboarder and a committed activist, he has performed in over 2000 shows and is the reigning Master’s World Champion of Freestyle skateboarding. Beyond his personal accolades, AJ leverages his diverse educational background in Industrial Design and Engineering to create innovative solutions and build strong communities. His expertise extends to being a successful event organizer and MC for the World and US Championships. Driven by a passion for empowering individuals, AJ’s work focuses on enriching the skateboarding community and shaping the future of the sport. His dedication is the heart of SK8 Edu's mission.
Ronnie Gordon is a seasoned professional skateboarder and the lead for all camps at SK8 Edu. He has been immersed in the skateboarding world for over two decades, beginning his journey as a camper at Woodward Skateboard Camp in 1991. After transitioning to an instructor role, he taught at camps across the country, including Visalia Skate Camp and co-founding The Skateboard Academy with AJ Kohn. A dedicated special education teacher at Yale School, Ronnie has a passion for teaching and helping others grow. With a successful career competing in amateur and professional events, and features in publications like Thrasher Magazine, Ronnie brings a wealth of experience to his role. He not only helps children develop their skateboarding skills but also instills valuable lessons in teamwork and collaboration.
Andrew serves as the director of Open World Skate, the school's clinical skateboarding program. A seasoned behavior therapist with a Master's in Applied Behavior Analysis, he has dedicated over a decade to the fields of education and mental health. With 20 years of skateboarding experience, Andrew's journey with the Skateboard Academy began five years ago as an instructor, eventually leading to his current role. He combines his deep understanding of human behavior with his passion for skateboarding to promote mental wellness through athletic coaching and mentorship. Proficient in various skateboarding styles, he particularly enjoys blending freestyle and street tricks. His work with Open World Skate exemplifies his belief in using sport as a tool for personal growth.
Pending licensures and certifications - LBS, BCC, and CBC
Terrell Clayton seamlessly transitioned from student to instructor to Head Instructor at our Skateboard Academy location. With 9 years at the academy, he's emerged as a dynamic force. Terrell's journey from learner to leader exemplifies his dedication to the art of skateboarding, the community, and instruction.His ten-year skateboarding voyage has honed his expertise, making him a valuable guide for the next generation of skaters.
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Mattew's skateboarding journey began in 1987, and he has been dedicated to the sport ever since. Rooted in the 90s street skating scene of Bucks County and Philadelphia, he has a long history of teaching skateboarding. Matt officially joined The Skateboard Academy in 2022, quickly advancing from assistant to Head Instructor at the Newtown and PA locations. Last year, he took on the role of Behavior Skater at the Philadelphia location, bringing his passion to the clinical program. Currently a Para-Educator working with special needs children, Matt is looking to pursue a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education, combining his love for skateboarding with his commitment to education.
With 20 years of dedication to skateboarding, Paul brings a wealth of experience in behavior analysis to the skate school's programs. He holds a Bachelor's in Psychology with coursework in Applied Behavior Analysis from Rider University. A certified special education teacher, Paul worked at The CEA School in Lambertville, NJ. He joined The Skateboard Academy in 2024 as an assistant instructor for after-school and clinical programs, quickly advancing to the role of Head Instructor. This year, Paul has taken on the pivotal position of Behavior Skater for the Rad World location and all New Jersey programs, using his dual expertise to support the team and enrich the students' experience.