Charter Arts Faculty (Complete List)
Acerra, Carlo — Production Arts Faculty
cacerra@charterarts.org
Carlo Acerra is a Production Arts faculty member with a background in media. Prior to joining the team at Charter Arts, Carlo worked as an editor for a video production company in the Lehigh Valley. While his primary role was in video editing, he has extensive knowledge in cinematography, photography, and audio production as well. In 2016 Carlo was awarded an Emmy for his work with FireRock Productions. While some of his work can be found in national-wide marketing campaigns, many of Carlo’s favorite projects have been with local organizations in the Lehigh Valley community. READ MORE
Anderson, Benjamin — Social Studies Faculty
banderson@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2213
Mr. Anderson has been with Charter Arts long enough to have taught Western Civilization, US1, US2 and Government. He brings a unique energy and passion of history to every subject and student. READ MORE
Anthony, Christopher — English Faculty
canthony@charterarts.org
Babiasz, Anthony — Math Faculty
ababiasz@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2210
Mr. Babiasz grew up in Northeast Philadelphia and attended Father Judge High School. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and Secondary Education at LaSalle University. He won the Annenberg-Henrich Scholarship for Mathematics and Science Educators, and was inducted into the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. READ MORE
Bardales, Magna — World Languages Faculty-Spanish
mbardales@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2302
Magna Rosa Bardales is originally from Perú. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work and MA degree in Spanish Language and Culture from Salamanca-Spain. Magna completed her studies at the Nacional Federico Villarreal University (Lima, Peru), Kean University (New Jersey), and Salamanca University (Spain). Magna also obtained her certification to teach AP Spanish through Penn State University READ MORE
Bell, Nicole — Special Education, Academic Support Teacher
nbell@charterarts.org
Nicole Bell grew up in Hunterdon County NJ and attended Rutgers University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in History. Nicole received her Master’s in Special Education from Hunter College and is certified in Special Education and Social Studies. She worked in the NYC Public School system for five years as a Special Educator in all core classes, a Science teacher, and a Social Studies teacher. READ MORE
Berry, Amy — Dance Faculty
aberry@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2416
Amy Berry is a professional dancer, teacher and choreographer who began her training in her home state of West Virginia. She then received her B.S. in dance from Radford University where she studied Graham modern technique from Pegeen Albig and classical ballet under the direction of Frano Jelincic and Dagmar Kessler. READ MORE
Bickert, Kelly Minner — Theatre Faculty
kbickert@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2404
Kelly Minner is a graduate of DeSales University with a BA in Theatre and Performing Arts. Kelly has performed many roles since beginning her career with Charter Arts; starting in the English Department, then moving into Theatre and Administration. READ MORE
Bomgardner, Georgia — School Psychologist
gbomgardner@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2220
Georgia Bomgardner is a certified school psychologist. She grew up in Arkansas, where she received her BA in Psychology at Hendrix College. She then moved to Bethlehem, where she completed her Masters in human development and her Doctorate in school psychology at Lehigh University. Throughout her education and training, Dr. Bomgardner has focused on supporting students and parents through behavioral, emotional, and academic interventions. Dr. Bomgardner and her husband, Mark, live in Bethlehem with their three cats and their pup. READ MORE
Boyer, Doug — Social Studies Faculty
dboyer@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2423
Mr. Boyer is thrilled to be joining the staff at Charter Arts as a member of the Social Studies department. Born and raised in Bethlehem, he graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in Political Science Education and history. He is currently working towards a Masters Degree in classroom technology at Wilkes University. READ MORE
Boyle, Joe — Director of Transportation
jboyle@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3138
Mr. Boyle has been with Charter Arts for three years and currently coordinates transportation and offers administrative assistance to the admin team and student services. He has earned a degree in Art Education as well as a degree in Fine Art Sculpture from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. READ MORE
Brinker, Roger — Visual Art Faculty
rbrinker@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2430
Roger Brinker is a graduate of Temple University’s Tyler School of Art. Joining the Charter Arts Visual Art Department in 2005, he teaches foundation drawing and figure drawing, sculpture, and contracted study. READ MORE
Bruck, Kristen — English Faculty
kbruck@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2426
Kristen Bruck has been teaching since 2001. She previously taught 6th through 12th grade Social Studies and English in public and cyber schools, as well as English and Reading courses at Northampton Community College. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education from Penn State, her Master's Degree in Reading from Kutztown University, and is certified as a Reading Specialist. READ MORE
Cantelmi, Christopher — Theatre Faculty
ccantelmi@charterarts.org
Born and raised in Fountain Hill, Pennsylvania, Rip was educated at Northampton Community College (AA), Temple University (BA) and The University of Connecticut (MFA) and has served on the adjunct faculty at Columbia College Chicago and taught numerous workshops on college campuses, high school classrooms, and acting studios. His work has been seen and/or heard on various stages, screens, and pages throughout the country. READ MORE
Chaban, Neil-Dominic — Assistant Director of Music, Piano & Vocal Technique
nchaban@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3159
Neil-Dominic Chaban grew up in the heart of the music scene of Chester County. After rigorous classical study, Neil attended West Chester University on an educator’s scholarship. Once at West Chester, he earned merit scholarships for performance, pedagogy, and academics. READ MORE
Chryst, Amy — Instrumental Music Faculty, Strings
achryst@charterarts.org
Comstock, Carise — Superintendent and CEO
Ccomstock@charterarts.org
Theresa Vinci, Assitant to the Superintendent & CEO, 610-868-2971 Ext. 2434
Dr. Carise Comstock is the newly appointed Superintendent and CEO at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts) as of July 1, 2020. Prior to accepting this new leadership position at Charter Arts, Dr. Comstock was the school’s building Principal from 2017-2020 during which time Charter Arts earned the 2018 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award from the United States Department of Education. Dr. Comstock was originally hired at Charter Arts as the Dean of Academic Affairs, Curriculum, and Instruction and held that position from 2013-2017. READ MORE
Covelle, Stephanie — Director of School Counseling. Last names A – C
scovelle@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.3130
Stephanie Covelle returns to Charter Arts as the Director of School Counseling. She is originally from the northern suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. Stephanie came to the Lehigh Valley to attend Lehigh University as an undergraduate student. As an undergrad, she majored in English with a minor in Sociology, ultimately graduating with departmental honors. READ MORE
Crawley, Shannon — Junior Career and College Planning Seminar/Literary Arts Faculty
scrawley@charterarts.org
Shannon Crawley grew up in microscopic borough in Northeastern, PA where she survived living with two brothers. She is currently surviving in a borough a bit south of Charter Arts with her two sets of twins, husband, and chicken. Working at Charter Arts invigorates her and inspires her to be a better teacher and person. She is excited to join the Seminar and Literary Arts Departments this year. READ MORE
DeFrancisco, Jenna — Math Faculty
jdefrancisco@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2440
Jenna DeFrancisco graduated from Moravian College with a Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics and a certification in secondary education. She has taught seventh and eighth grade math for the program, Lehigh Valley Summerbridge. There, she facilitated a six week long project in which students constructed their own schools using applicable math skills. In addition to teaching, Miss DeFrancisco coaches girls’ volleyball and is entering her fifth season of coaching travel volleyball. Miss DeFrancisco is extremely thrilled to be a part of the Charter Art’s staff and math department. She found her passion for teaching and math after tutoring during her senior year of high school. Now, she hopes to share that passion with her students in her classes. Miss DeFrancisco is excited for the upcoming school year and can’t wait to work with the students. READ MORE
DeVault, Shawn — Evening Desk
sdevault@charterarts.org
Diana, Jessica — Special Education
jdiana@charterarts.org
Jessica Diana is a New Jersey native where she lives with her two toddler sons. She is a graduate of Montclair State University where she received her Bachelor's in Elementary Education and Centenary College Graduate School where she received her certification in Special Education. READ MORE
Dickson, Erica — Instrumental Faculty
edickson@charterarts.org
Erica Dickson grew up in the Lehigh Valley and is a proud alum of Charter Arts. She is a lifelong lover of music, beginning piano lessons at just five years old. She earned a BM in Music Education, a BM in Music Theory & Composition, and a minor in Music History from West Chester University with concentrations in piano and oboe. At West Chester, she studied with Dr. Patricia, Powell, Dr. Henry Grabb, Dr. Robert Maggio, Dr. Marcie Major, and Dr. Jacob Cooper. While completing two years of professional teaching service in the Pennsylvania Public School System, Ms. Dickson recently completed her Masters of Music in Music Education at Temple University, primarily focusing on research methods under the mentorship of Dr. Deborah Confredo. READ MORE
Dobrowolski, Diane Wagner — Director of Theatre
dwagner@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3146
Diane Wagner Dobrowolski received a B.A. in English from DeSales University and an M.F.A in Acting from Louisiana State University. She has worked professionally as an actress for many years. As a member of Actor’s Equity, Mrs. Wagner performed in numerous productions across the country. Some of her favorite roles include Kate in Dancing at Lughnasa, Portia in The Merchant of Venice, the Angel in Angels in America, and Katherina in The Taming of the Shrew. Mrs. Wagner had the privilege to perform at the Kennedy Center as Martha in LSU’s award-winning production of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf as part of the American College Theatre Festival. READ MORE
Donohue, Ryan — Production Assistant, Theatre
rdonohue@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2411
Ryan grew up in the Bethlehem area for most of his life. He is a graduate from Desales University where he received his degree in Theatre. He has also worked backstage on a few productions at the Pennsylvania Playhouse. READ MORE
Evans, Cynthia — Math Faculty
Department Chair
cevans@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2211
Cyndi Evans is a graduate of Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in both Secondary Education and Mathematics. In 2009, she earned her Master of Science degree from the University of Scranton in Curriculum and Instruction. Mrs. Evans has taught all levels of math from Pre-Algebra through Calculus and has over sixteen years of experience teaching high school. She has taught in New Hope, PA, Prince George, VA, and Stewartsville, NJ and holds valid teaching certificates in mathematics in all three states. She is level II certified in the state of PA. READ MORE
Fickes, Michael — Visual Art Faculty
mfickes@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2431
Michael Fickes is a 2010 graduate of Millersville University with a degree in Art Education. He has been teaching since 2013 and has been a member of the visual art faculty at Charter Arts since 2015. He teaches drawing, painting, photography, and digital art. In addition to his teaching experience, Michael has worked professionally as a photographer, digital photo retouch artist, and as a graphic designer. He also has a background in custom framing, art care, and gallery installation. His current work is focused in fine art photography. READ MORE
Filchner, Brian — Facilities Manager
bfilchner@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3134
Fowler, Jodi — English Faculty
Department Chair
jfowler@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2308
Jodi Fowler was born and raised in northern New Jersey. She moved to Philadelphia, PA in 1998 where she attended Drexel University. She graduated Cum Laude from Drexel with her B.S. in Corporate Communications in 2002. READ MORE
Gehman, Christina — Office Assistant
cgehman@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.3124
Gillette, Ann — Manager of Public Relations and Media
agillette@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 ext. 3185
All media inquiries can be directed to this office. The public relations office also manages the school website, school newsletters, the annual performance season playbook, various school and Charter Arts Foundation events and event promotion, media events, social media, the Summer Academy program, and creative media services including video production and graphic design. READ MORE
Ging, Margo — Dance Faculty
mging@charterarts.org
Gournet, Virginie — World Languages Faculty- French- Department Chair
vgournet@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2426
Virginie Gournet teaches French- Levels 3, 4, and 5. She is thrilled to be part of Charter Arts and to have so many talented students in her classroom. READ MORE
Hahn, Matthew — Math Faculty
mhahn@charterarts.org
Matthew Hahn is excited and honored to join the team at Charter Arts. He grew up in Easton, PA where he graduated from Wilson Area High School in 2007. It was during this time that he really developed a passion for teaching after taking an Algebra 2 Honors course with Mr. Brown. His enthusiasm and love for the profession really stuck with Mr. Hahn, and he tries to bring the same attributes and approach to his classes. He holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Secondary Education/Mathematics from East Stroudsburg University. He joins Charter Arts with 6 years of teaching experience at all levels in New Jersey. READ MORE
Hazim, Shawn — School Counselor, Last Names D-Mc
shazim@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3157
Shawn Hazim is a School Counselor for last names D-Mc. Shawn earned his Master’s Degree at Kutztown University in School Counseling and his Bachelor’s Degree from Penn State University in Business Management. He was born and raised in Allentown, PA. He is married and has a 5-year-old daughter. READ MORE
Hepner, Danielle — Visual Art Faculty
dhepner@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2445
Danielle Hepner earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture with K-12 Art Education Certification from the University of the Arts and went on to achieve a Master of Arts in Visual Art through Adelphi University. Later, she returned to her alma mater, the University of Arts to complete a Professional Certificate in Digital Photography and a Professional Certificate in Graphic Design. Danielle’s 20+ years of teaching include experience at two colleges, an arts education center and a high school. She has been a member of the Visual Arts faculty at Charter Arts since 2017. READ MORE
Hoffman, Mary Anne — Dance Faculty
mhoffman@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2418
Mary Anne Hoffman began her dance training with the Ballet Guild of the Lehigh Valley under the direction of Alexi Ramov. She was a member of BGLV’s Apprentice and Performing Companies where she had featured roles in many ballets, most notably Swan Lake, Coppelia and the Nutcracker. READ MORE
Hornyak, Emily — Athletic Trainder
Horvath, Stephanie — Science Faculty
Department Chair
shorvath@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2319
Mrs. Horvath received her B.A. in Biology from Bryn Mawr College in 1992. She then helped her husband run a business, cared for their three daughters, and worked as a substitute teacher until joining the faculty at Charter Arts in 2006. READ MORE
Huber, Jamie — Science Faculty
jhuber@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2425
Mr. Huber graduated from East Stroudsburg University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and a Pennsylvania Secondary Education Teaching Certification in Biology. Shortly after college, Mr. Huber worked as a paraprofessional in the Jim Thorpe Area School District at the elementary school level and as a high school science teacher at the Medical Academy Charter School. READ MORE
Ippolito, Robert — Seminar Teacher, 9th Grade Extension
rippolito@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2449 (voicemail only)
Mr. Ippolito is ecstatic to be living his dream of teaching at an arts high school. It is his passion and desire to inspire, develop, support and instill a love for learning and academic success to a diverse population of students. He believes that every student has the drive to succeed in their major of study with guidance, structure, and support. READ MORE
Janowski, Richard — Science Faculty
rjanowski@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2441
Richard Janowski graduated from the University of Virginia with a BA in Physics and received his teaching certification from West Chester University. He loves being a part of the Charter Arts science department and helping students see the connections between their artistic endeavors and the universe of science. READ MORE
Jones, Timothy — Health & Wellness Faculty
tjones@charterarts.org
Keller, Kaitlyn — Science Faculty, Biology
kkeller@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext.2317
Kaitlyn Keller (formerly Miller) graduated from Kutztown University in 2013 with a B.S in Secondary Science Education with a concentration in Earth and Space Science. After graduating college she started her teaching career at Da Vinci Science Center running and creating summer camps and outreach programs. While working at Da Vinci Science Center she continued to work on her certifications and currently holds certifications in Earth and Space Science, Biology and General Science. READ MORE
Kemp, Mary Beth — Science Faculty
mkemp@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2429
MaryBeth Kemp is a graduate of Kean University of New Jersey with a BS in Biology and received her secondary teaching certification through Kutztown University and is certified in biology, environmental and physical science. She is currently finishing her Master’s degree in Education through Wilkes University. She has been a science teacher in both Berks and Lehigh County for the past ten years. READ MORE
Kieszek, Chris — Math Faculty
ckieszek@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2212
Chris Kieszek is a Lehigh Valley Native. He went to Liberty High School and attended Moravian College. While at Moravian, he was involved with tutoring for the math department. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Moravian College in 2012 earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics. He won the Marlyn A. Rader Memorial Prize in Mathematics for his high achievements and scores in math and was also inducted into Pi Mu Epsilon for his hard work in the field. He has worked in many school districts including Bethlehem, Parkland, Southern Lehigh, and Lehigh Valley Academy. READ MORE
Kish, Kelsey — Vocal Music Faculty
kkish@charterarts.org
Kelsey Lauren Kish, from Easton, PA, holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance degree from Moravian College, a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of South Carolina, and is nearing the completion of a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance degree from USC. She has appeared in many Opera at USC productions including the roles of Die Mutter in Humperdinck’s Hänsel und Gretel, Old Lady/Baroness in Bernstein’s Candide, Rita in Donizetti’s Rita, and Mrs. Cratchet/Ghost of Christmas Past in Douglas’ Scrooge. READ MORE
Krock, Stephen — Administrative Assistant, School Counseling Department
skrock@charterarts.org
Krug, Max — Technology & Media Support Intern
mkrug@charterarts.org
Labadie-Bartz, Rachel (Rae) — Director of Production Design
rlabadie@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2112
Rae Labadie is a theatre artist, administrator and educator with international experience in engaging communities, creating worlds and managing artists. Dedicated to utilizing theatre arts to build social awareness, encourage differences and promote self-confidence, Rae thrives on new works and socially relevant material, and is eager to entice new audiences to experience the dynamism of communal theatre. READ MORE
LaBelle, Diane — Executive Consultant
dlabelle@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3108
Diane LaBelle became the Executive Director & CEO of The Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts) in June 2010. She brought with her twenty years of experience as one of the premier arts and education administrators in the country. Upon arrival at Charter Arts, which had been operating out of a restored factory building for seven years, LaBelle began working with the Board of Directors to plan the development of a brand-new facility that would meet the needs of one of the most respected high schools for the arts in the nation. After ten years of service to the school, LaBelle announced her retirement in September 2019, and remained as Executive Director until Jun 30, 2020. READ MORE
Leimberger, Kristin — Literary Arts Faculty
kleimberger@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2312
Mrs. Liemberger is thrilled to join the Charter Arts team as a Literary Arts instructor for the major's inaugural year. She received her B.A. in English with a focus in Creative Writing from Kenyon College and went on to receive her certification in English Education from the University at Buffalo. READ MORE
Levernier, Jennifer — Executive Office & Technology Manager, Student Support Associate
jlevernier@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3187
Jennifer started working at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts in 2012 after working in a mental health office for seven years. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's Degree at Penn State University with a concentration in Psychology. She works in partnership with the administrative team on many issues relating to students. READ MORE
Litchfield, Liz — Social Worker
elitchfield@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2433
Liz Litchfield is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Home and School Visitor under the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Originally from Massachusetts, Liz first came to Pennsylvania to complete her undergraduate degree from Lafayette College, where she majored in English and minored in Psychology. From there, Liz completed a year of service in AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps. READ MORE
Lorenz, Mike — Instrumental Music Faculty, Jazz Studies
mlorenz@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2406
Mike Lorenz is a guitarist/teacher hailing from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Since graduating from Moravian College with a Bachelors of Music in Jazz Performance in 2007, he has kept a busy schedule as a freelance performer and instructor. He leads his own group performing his original jazz compositions having released 4 albums under his own name. READ MORE
Macbeth, David — Vocal Music Faculty
dmacbeth@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2423
David B. Macbeth, a founding vocal/choral faculty member of the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts conducts two of the school’s six choral ensembles, and teaches classes in honors level music history, Advanced Placement music theory, vocal techniques, and keyboarding. READ MORE
Madden-Cox, Brigham — English Faculty, PBA
bcox@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2427
Brigham Madden-Cox was born and raised between Malvern and Phoenixville, PA. In 2010 he enrolled at Brown University. During his four years of undergraduate studies at Brown, Brigham sang in an A Cappella group, studied abroad in Copenhagen,, and worked for 95.5 WBRU, an FM radio station in Providence. In 2014 he graduated with a B.A. in English and Literary Arts. READ MORE
Maher, Thomas — Instrumental Music Faculty, Brass
tmaher@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2018
Tom Maher is the Brass Specialist and Music Instructor at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts). In his time at Charter Arts, he has taught a variety of courses including Jazz Ensembles, Music Theory, Composition and Arranging, Concert Band, and Music for Film. He has also worked closely on multiple Charter Arts musical productions, most recently as Pit Conductor of Sweeney Todd. He currently serves as the advisor of the Tri-M Music Honor Society Chapter 7881. READ MORE
Maniscalco, Kim — Director of Dance
kmaniscalco@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3122
Kimberly Maniscalco is a professional dancer, teacher, and choreographer. She received her early training at the Toledo Ballet School and was a scholarship student at the San Francisco Ballet. Ms. Maniscalco was principle dancer with the Toledo Opera and Springfield Ballet Companies and also performed with Pittsburgh Dance Alloy and the Mary Miller Dance Company. READ MORE
Mensher, Heath — Literary Arts Faculty
hmensher@charterarts.org
Heath Mensher has a BA in English from York College of Pennsylvania and a Master’s Degree in Education from Kutztown University, where he became a member of the Graduate Honor Society and delivered KU’s commencement speech. Mr. Mensher was an active writer and filmmaker in both New York City and Los Angeles for over 20 years, and his short films have been the official selections of many Film Festivals across the country. READ MORE
Moyer, Rebecca — Dance Faculty
rmoyer@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2419
Rebecca Moyer has a B.A. in Dance and a B.A. in Business Management from DeSales University and a M.F.A. in Dance Choreography from State University of New York-Purchase College. READ MORE
Musselman, Mary — Chair, World Languages Department
mmusselman@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2438
Sra. Musselman joined Charter Arts in January 2015. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from Temple University andMaster of Education from East Stroudsburg University. She has studied and lived in Mexico, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic, and completed a Spanish faculty development course in Salamanca, Spain, in the summer of 2016. READ MORE
Naugle, Kyra — School Counselor, Last Names Me-Z
knaugle@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3135
Kyra Naugle is the School Counselor for students with last names Me-Z. Kyra earned her Master's in School Counseling from Messiah College and her Bachelor's degree in Education from Lebanon Valley College. READ MORE
Nesfeder, Amy — Social Studies Faculty
Department Chair
anesfeder@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2221
Amy Nesfeder received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with minors in Communications and International Relations from Florida State University. While at Florida State, she was a member and captain of the varsity swim team. After college, she received a Corporate Law and Business Finance Certification from The Institute for Paralegal Training in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was employed for several years as a litigation paralegal with a law firm in Jacksonville, Florida. Mrs. Nesfeder received her Juris Doctorate from the Cumberland School of Law in Birmingham, Alabama. While pursuing her law degree, she interned in Washington, D.C. with Ashland Oil, Inc. as a legislative aide and with the United States Environmental Protection Agency as a law clerk. READ MORE
Nolt, Suzannah — Paraprofessional
snolt@charterarts.org
Ms. Nolt is honored to join the special education department as a paraprofessional after teaching in the Charter Arts figure skating program for nine years. In her lengthy career as a competitor, performer, and coach, Ms. Nolt has worked in many different environments with children of all ages and abilities. READ MORE
O’Reilly, Molly — Dance Faculty
moreilly@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2415
Molly O'Reilly is a Lehigh Valley native who received her initial training from Repertory Dance Theatre under the direction Dolly Haltzman and Jennifer Haltzman-Tracy. READ MORE
Odell, Carla — English Faculty
codell@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2444
For two decades, Carla worked as a writer and editor in the NYC magazine market. But with a B.A. in the dual study of Journalism and English from Syracuse University, she had long felt a tug toward the other half of her degree. The tug won. In 2001 she began a 9-year teaching stint in New Jersey, first as an 8th-grade teacher of language arts at Hackensack Middle School before moving to Hunterdon County, where she taught Sophomore English/Research Paper and Senior AP Literature and Composition at North Hunterdon High School. After crossing the Delaware, Carla joined us here at Charter Arts. READ MORE
Price, Olivia — Evening Desk
oprice@charterarts.org
Reinhard, Lorie — Director of Visual Art
lreinhard@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3155
Lorie Reinhard has been a faculty member of Charter Arts high school since its inception. She received her Bachelors in Art Education from Moravian College in 2001 and her Masters of Figurative Painting from the Academy of Art University in 2013. READ MORE
Rosania-Harvie, Mary Jo — Assistant Principal, Class of 2021 & 2023
mrosania@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext., 3161
Mrs. Rosania-Harvie came to Charter Arts in 2017 from a 17 year career in arts and education and a 20 year ongoing career as an artist. Her focus is on overall school and community safety, culture and wellness. A resident of the Lehigh Valley, she has always considered herself an artist-teacher. She first earned her Bachelors in Fine Arts with a minor in Theater and K-12 teaching certification from Kutztown University. READ MORE
Schurz, Cheryl — Director of Finance and Administration
cschurz@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3169
Cheryl joined the Charter Arts Administrative Team in the summer of 2006. A resident of Nazareth and a Lehigh Valley native, she is eager to serve the Charter Arts family of students, parents, faculty, and staff. Cheryl holds a MBA from DeSales University and a BS in Accounting and Computer Science also from DeSales University. READ MORE
Schutzler, Magdalena — Production Arts Faculty
mshcutlzer@charterarts.org
Magdalena Schutzler is a theatre administrator, designer, and educator with a multitude of experiences designing, managing artists, and teaching theatre up and down the East Coast. Magdalena was born and raised in the Lehigh Valley, with her theatre design experience beginning at Emmaus High School. READ MORE
Sheldon, Lauren — Assistant Principal, Class of 2020 & 2022
lsheldon@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3121
Ms. Sheldon completed her undergraduate work at Lafayette College, graduating with an English major, French minor, and secondary education certificate. After college, she taught English and 21st century skills at North Hunterdon High School in Annandale, New Jersey for 13 years. She worked closely with teams of teachers to develop and revise curriculum and to infuse her classrooms with student-centered, technology-enriched lessons. During her tenure at North Hunterdon, Ms. Sheldon completed her Masters of Educational Leadership through Centenary University and currently holds certificates as a supervisor and K-12 principal. READ MORE
Squerrini, Ann Marie — Director of Admissions and Assessments
asquerrini@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3137
Ms. Squerrini proudly celebrates 15 years with The Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts! A professional actor, director, and choreographer originally from New Jersey, she has appeared regionally at Paper Mill Playhouse, New Jersey Public Theatre, Bucks County Playhouse, Pocono Playhouse and Hunterdon Hills Playhouse. READ MORE
Stoop, Florentine — World Languages Faculty, Chinese/Asian Studies
fstoop@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2222
Mx. Stoop is thrilled to be a part of the Charter Arts community, teaching Chinese/Asian Studies 1 & 2. They are passionate about languages and communication. They received their B.A. in East Asian Studies and Chinese from Ursinus College. They lived in Nanjing, China for four months in the fall of 2015, studying Mandarin, Chinese culture and exploring mainland China. Some of their favorite places they visited in China were Xi'an, Hangzhou, Dunhuang, and Shanghai. They are excited to share their knowledge and experience with students. READ MORE
Swartz, Crystal — School Nurse
nurse@charterarts.org
Thatcher, Amy — Special Education Teacher
athatcher@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2305
Amy Thatcher is excited to join the Charter Arts community as the new Academic Support teacher. As a life long Lehigh Valley native, having graduated from Saucon Valley High School in 2012, she is excited to be back in the area after spending 5 years in Pittsburgh. Miss Thatcher graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2016 with a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and Sociology. She also graduated from Pitt in 2017 with a Master's in Secondary Education with focuses in Special Education and Mathematics. Prior to starting at Charter Arts, Miss Thatcher taught summer school at a specialized learning center in Pittsburgh. READ MORE
Vanaman, Megan — Social Studies Faculty
mvanaman@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2303 (voicemail only)
Miss Vanaman began her time at Charter Arts during the 2017-18 year and has taught US1 and Sociology within the Social Studies department since then. She grew up in Huntingdon Valley, PA before moving to Wilmington, Delaware. Miss Vanaman attended an arts high school in Delaware called Cab Calloway School of the Arts before returning to Pennsylvania to earn a B.A. in Social Studies Secondary Education from Juniata College in 2015. Miss Vanaman has also taught SAT Prep and served as a day-to-day substitute and long-term substitute at Cab Calloway. READ MORE
Vinci, Theresa — Assistant to the Executive Director & CEO
tvinci@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2434
Walsh, Paul — Artistic Director of Literary Arts
pwalsh@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3145
Paul Walsh has been a lover of words for as long as he can remember. His passions for reading, writing, teaching, and learning all come together in his role as Artistic Director of the Literary Arts program. As far as he is concerned, this makes his job the best job on the planet. His goal is to show all of his students that they each have a unique voice that must be utilized to tell the powerful story that lies inside them. READ MORE
Wargo, Janine, Psy. D. — Psychologist
janine2@ptd.net
Dr. Wargo has been the psychologist at Charter Arts since the inaugural year. When the school first opened, she was originally supposed to complete 2 evaluations and then return to her other employment obligations. READ MORE
Weaver, Jennifer — Dance Faculty
jweaver@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2417
Jennifer Weaver holds an M.F.A. from Temple University and a BA in Theater and Dance from Muhlenberg College. She has performed with Sesame Street Live, Eidolon Arts, NYC Broadway Cheerleaders, The Princeton Opera, The Pennington Players, Co-Art Dance Company and the Muhlenberg Theatre Association. READ MORE
Weldner, Brian — Social Studies Faculty
bweldner@charterarts.org
Weller, Ashley Tait — Theatre Faculty
aweller@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2403
Ashley Tait Weller is a full-time member of the Charter Arts Theatre Faculty. She teaches all grade levels – voice, movement, acting and the Musical Theatre elective. Mrs. Weller directs and choreographs productions at Charter Arts and the surrounding area. She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with dual degrees in Theatre and Interdisciplinary Fine Arts Dance Track. READ MORE
Wells, Matthew — Director of Music
mwells@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 ext. 3129
Mr. Wells attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania where he studied under Dr. Jack Stamp, Dr. Gary Olmstead and Dr. Michael Kingan. He graduated with a BA in music with a focus on percussion and later, received his PA Teacher Certification. READ MORE
Wilson-Kelly, Kelly — English Faculty
kkelly@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2307
Kelly was born and raised in the Lehigh Valley. She attended Emmaus High School, received her undergrad degree in Education and graduate degree in Education from Kutztown University. Kelly studied and performed several disciplines of dance since age four and her career culminated as a member of the Joffery American School of Ballet in New York City. She has been dance instructor at some of the finest school’s in the area including Repertory Dance Theatre and Nardi’s School of Dance. READ MORE
Wrenn-Meleck, Peter — Director of Production
pwrennmeleck@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3147
Peter is a veteran of over 36 years in professional theatre. READ MORE
Zameroski, Nathan — Math Faculty
nzameroski@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2439
Nate Zameroski is a graduate of Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science in Life Science. He then attended Pittsburgh University to obtain a teacher certification in science, as well as mathematics. Mr. Zameroski completed his master’s degree in special education at DeSales University. He has been teaching mathematics and science in a private school, located in the Lehigh valley, for the last seven and a half years, and is entering his fourth year at Charter Arts. READ MORE