Charter Arts Faculty (Complete List)
Acerra, Carlo — Artistic Director, Production Arts
cacerra@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
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 nationwide marketing campaigns, many of Carlo’s favorite projects have been with local organizations in the Lehigh Valley community. READ MORE
Alicea, Rebecca — Facilities Team
ralicea@charterarts.org
Anthony, Christopher — English Faculty
canthony@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Christopher Anthony earned B.A.'s in both English and Secondary Education from Duquesne University, and his M.A. in English from Kutztown University. For the last four years, Mr. Anthony has lived in the Lehigh Valley while teaching English at Charter Arts. Each year at Charter Arts brings new challenges and opportunities that allow Mr. Anthony to continue growing as both an educator and a student—he could not be more grateful for this opportunity! READ MORE
Arnold, Katie — Visual Arts Faculty
karnold@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2432
Beatty, Scott — Literary Arts Faculty
sbeatty@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2457 (voicemail only)
Mr. Beatty earned a B.A. in English and Creative Writing from Juniata College, and his M.A. in Creative Writing from Iowa State University. Before joining Charter Arts in 2021, Mr. Beatty divided his time between teaching as an adjunct professor at several Pennsylvania colleges, and as a freelance author and editorial consultant. READ MORE
Berry, Amy — Dance Faculty
aberry@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 2417
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
Betancourt, Sophia — World Languages Faculty, Spanish
sbetancourt@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Sophia was born and raised in the Poconos, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Pleasant Valley High School and received her bachelor’s degree from East Stroudsburg University. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish with concentrations in education, communications, and American Sign Language. Before joining the Charter Arts community, she had been teaching Spanish to grades K-10 at a small private school. In addition to teaching, she has volunteered at the election polls, camps for deaf children, and various causes in Puerto Rico. Already familiar with implementing individualized and project-based curriculum, she is excited to incorporate students’ love and passion for the arts into their Spanish education. READ MORE
Bickert, Kelly Minner — Artistic Director, Theatre
kbickert@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext.2404
Kelly Minner-Bickert 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
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 — Visual Arts Faculty
jboyle@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2431
Mr. Boyle graduated from KU in 2013, earning a BS in Art Education and BFA in Sculpture. In 2019 Mr. Boyle graduated again from KU to earn a MA in Arts Administration. Mr. Boyle has worked for Charter Arts for the last (almost) six years and will be moving on at Charter Arts as a new member of the Visual Arts department. In addition to his new role, he is also a caretaker of many dogs, greatly enjoys far too many books , and has been married to his husband for about two years already. If he isn't spending way too much time rewatching Jurassic Park, Mr. Boyle primarily works in oil paint for now, would love to get back into casting and mold making. READ MORE
Brinker, Roger — Visual Arts 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 Arts Department in 2005, he teaches foundation drawing and figure drawing, sculpture, and contracted study. READ MORE
Brown, Leah — English Faculty
lbrown@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Born and raised in the Lehigh Valley, Miss Brown earned a BA in English and Secondary Education in 2021 from Misericordia University, where she delivered MU’s Commencement Speech as the Class of 2021 Valedictorian. She then moved to South West England temporarily for graduate school at the University of Exeter, where she earned an MA in English Literary Studies (specialization in Victorian Literature) in 2022. READ MORE
Bucci, Joseph — Instrumental Music Faculty
jbucci@charterarts.org
Joseph Bucci is an alumni of West Chester University where he studied both guitar and trumpet with David Cullen and Robert Skoniczin, respectively. He graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Education from the Wells School of Music. He joined the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts music faculty in August of 2023, where he teaches guitar studies, music theory, songwriting, and directs various ensembles. READ MORE
Campbell, Dawn — Reading Specialist
dcampbell@charterarts.org
Canning, Kayla — Seminar Faculty
kcanning@charterarts.org
Crawley, Shannon — English Faculty
scrawley@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2308
Shannon Crawley earned her B.A. in English and certifications in elementary education and secondary English from Muhlenberg College. While teaching English and reading in the Central Bucks School District, she earned her M.A. in English from Arcadia University and her writing fellowship through West Chester's PA Writing and Literature Project. READ MORE
Demyan, Jenna — Math Faculty
jdemyan@charterarts.org
DeVault, Shawn — Paraprofessional
sdevault@charterarts.org
Diana, Jessica — Specialized Services Administrator
jdiana@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 ext: 2455
Jessica is excited to return to Charter Arts for her fifth academic year. This year is Jessica’s second year as assistant principal; prior to administration, Jessica served as a special education teacher and case manager. Jessica specializes in student support services, specifically overseeing our special education and school counseling departments. Additionally, she is the School Safety Coordinator and administrative representative of the SAP team. Jessica’s favorite part of her job is finding new and innovative ways to support students and build community relationships. Jessica’s true passion is student advocacy and the never-ending pursuit of honing in on her leadership skills. READ MORE
Dickson, Erica — Artistic Director, Vocal Music
edickson@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3159
Erica Dickson grew up in the Lehigh Valley and is a proud alum of the Charter Arts Music Department. She earned a BM in Music Education, a BM in Music Theory & Composition and a minor in Music History graduating from West Chester University as well as an MM in Music Education from Temple University. She is currently earning her PhD in Music Education at Temple University with a focus on informal music making, curriculum development, and pop music pedagogies. She is also the Director of Music at Chestnut Hill Church UCC and an adjunct at Northampton Community College. READ MORE
Evans, Cynthia — Chair, Math Department & Federal Programs Coordinator
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, and in 2022, she finished a series of leadership graduate classes, passed the administration Praxis test, and earned her certification in Administration. READ MORE
Filchner, Brian — Facilities Manager
bfilchner@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3134
Ghorm, Brenig — Main Office Administrative Assistant
bghorm@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3109
Gillette, Ann — Community Relations
agillette@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 ext. 3185
All media inquiries can be directed to this office. The Community Relations Office also manages the school website, school newsletters, the annual performance season playbill, 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
Girard, Griffin — Transportation Coordinator/ Food Service
ggirard@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2471
Girard, Lisa — Front Office Coordinator/ Administrative Assistant
lgirard@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3124
Gournet, Virginie — World Languages Faculty- French
vgournet@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2426
Virginie Gournet is a French native. She was born and raised in France. She has taught at The Episcopal Academy in Newton Square, as well as, Moravian Academy in Bethlehem. She was very instrumental in a French exchange program in Nancy, France. She organized summer camps, conversation table and tutoring classes for adults and children. She was the President and the National French Contest Administrator for the American Association of Teachers of French in the Lehigh Valley. Virginie is an advocate of the French language. READ MORE
Handkammer, Amy — Production Arts Faculty
ahandkammer@charterarts.org
Amy graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology with a BFA in Fashion Design and Trend Research as well Polimoda International Institute of Fashion Design in Florence, Italy. She has extensive experience in Film and Television in a variety of capacities such as licensing, product development and manufacturing. She served as Vice-President for Product Development for New Line Cinema, as well as worked with other notable companies such as Warner Brothers, Mattel, Disney, Nickelodeon, Lucus Films and Sanrio to name a few. Amy was the recipient of the 2003 FIT Star Award recognizing her contributions to the fashion industry. READ MORE
Harr, Jaime — Seminar Faculty
jharr@charterarts.org
Mrs. Harr graduated from Cedar Crest College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and later a Masters degree in Elementary School Counseling from Kutztown University. Previously, Mrs. Harr worked in the Quakertown Community School District at the middle school level in English and Learning Support for 7 years. She is excited to be joining Charter Arts in the Seminar Department supporting 9th grade students as they transition into high school. READ MORE
Hart, Rachel — Instrumental Music Faculty
rhart@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Hausmann, Chad — Math Faculty
chausmann@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2210
Chad Hausmann is a graduate of Bangor Area High School. In 2012, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in both Secondary Education and Mathematics from the University of Kutztown. Mr. Hausmann has taught many levels of math from Math Remediation to Algebra II and ranging from grades 4-12. He has done tutoring for students for various math topics including; Keystone prep and SAT prep. He has taught at Bangor High School, Bangor Middle School, Wind gap Middle School and Pen Argyl High School. Mr. Hausmann has also coached soccer for numerous years and is currently coaching the Pen Argyl High School Boys' Varsity Soccer team. 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
Hill, Jamie — Director of School Counseling
jhill@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3130
Jamie Hill, earned their undergrad in Secondary Education from Kutztown University and M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction from Moravian College. After teaching math and overseeing the yearbook from 2006-2014 at Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts, J. Hill left to obtain their School Administration certification in Rhode Island. Before returning to the Lehigh Valley, J. Hill served as an Assistant Principal at a Rhode Island high school, and is now happy to be once again to be a part of the faculty and staff at Charter Arts. READ MORE
Hill, Wardell — Facilities Team
whill@charterarts.org
Hoffman, Jennifer — Special Education Teacher/ Case Manager, H-M
jhoffman@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
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 Trainer
athletictrainer@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2032
Dr. Emily Hornyak DAT, LAT, ATC graduated with her Clinical Doctorate in Athletic Training from Moravian University in August of 2021. She obtained her Masters in Athletic Training from East Stroudsburg University in 2017 and two Bachelors in Science of Athletic Training and Exercise Science from Slippery Rock University in 2015. 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
Illingworth, Abigail — Vocal Music Faculty
aillingworth@charterarts.org
Abigail (Abby) Illingworth graduated from Elizabethtown College in 2021 and earned her BA in music. In addition to joining the vocal faculty at the Lehigh Valley Charter School for the Arts, Abby has experience teaching voice, guitar and piano. She is extremely excited to be part of such an incredible community and to not only teach and help her students achieve their fullest potential, but to have the opportunity to grow and learn from her students as well. READ MORE
Ippolito, Robert — Assistant Principal
rippolito@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2447 (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
John, Diandra — Special Education Case Worker
djohn@charterarts.org
Jones, Timothy — Health & Family Science Faculty/ Seminar Department Chair
tjones@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2307
Mr. Jones graduated from East Stroudsburg University magna cum laude with a degree in Health and Physical Education. His goal is to make life long lovers of movement and positive health choices. READ MORE
Keller, Kaitlyn — Chair, Science Department
kkeller@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext.2317
Katie Keller 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
Keller, Lauren — Math Faculty
lkeller@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2210
Ms. Keller is excited and honored to join the team at Charter Arts. She grew up in Kintnersville, Pennsylvania and attended high school at The Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts as a vocalist. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from American Public University and a Master’s of Arts in Teaching from Kansas State University. Ms. Keller’s passion for teaching stems from a lifelong love for mathematics, years of tutoring students of all grade levels in math, and helping students discover confidence and enjoyment in mathematics. 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
Kimock, Sarah — Dance Faculty
skimock@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Sarah Kimock (formerly Haarmann) grew up in Macungie, Pennsylvania and received training at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts under the direction of Kimberly Maniscalco. She graduated magna cum laude with a B.F.A in dance from Marymount Manhattan College in 2012. Haarmann has had the pleasure of performing with Pam Tanowitz Dance, Jessica Lang Dance, Dylan Crossman Dans(ce), Pat Catterson, Denisa Musilova, Bill Young, the Merce Cunningham Trust and the Park Avenue Armory. She joined the Mark Morris Dance Group as a company member in 2017 and continues to perform with the company as a guest artist. Her role as sweet bird in Morris's "L'Allegro, il Penseroso ed il Moderato" garnered her critical acclaim as "stunning from the moment she stepped onstage. She moves as if she were made of air," (Gia Kourlas, New York Times). READ MORE
Krencs, John — Facilities Team
jkrencs@charterarts.org
Krug, Max — Technology Coordinator
mkrug@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3108
Mr. Krug manages all technology needs in the building, from creating accounts to ensuring all students and staff members have access to school devices. He is the support resource for any account issues and can assist with the repairs of school-issued devices. He also has a passion for the arts, with a BFA in Applied Digital Media from Kutztown University and a long history of involvement in the performing arts. READ MORE
Leonor-Hernandez, Jasmine — World Languages Faculty, Spanish
jleonor@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Jasmine Leonor Hernandez is a graduate of DeSales University with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Secondary Education. During her undergraduate, she was able to study abroad in Segovia, Spain. Jasmine is currently enrolled in the Master of Education program at DeSales University. Before working at Charter Arts, Jasmine was a Family Engagement Partner for the Head Start program in Allentown. Jasmine also has experience working with ESL students in Bethlehem. READ MORE
Levernier, Jennifer — Principal
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 MEd Degree at Lehigh University in Educational Leadership. She previously attended Penn State University and attained her BS in Psychology. She works in partnership with the administrative team on many issues relating to students including discipline, technology, attendance, etc. She is a member of the school safety team, SAP team, and Student Support Team. READ MORE
Liemberger, Kristin — Artistic Director, Literary Arts
kliemberger@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2312
Mrs. Liemberger 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. In May of 2014, Mrs. Liemberger completed her M.A. in English Literature at Rutgers--Camden after taking a few semesters off to have her two wonderful sons. Prior to her role at Charter Arts she taught for ten yeares in the School District of Philadelphia. READ MORE
Lincoln, Christina — Executive Director & CEO
Assistant, Vanessa Schieber, vschieber@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2448
Dr. Lincoln recently joined Charter Arts as the new Executive Director and CEO. Her post secondary education began at Penn State University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education followed by a Masters of Education from East Stroudsburg University and doctoral work leading to her Ed. D in Curriculum, Teaching, Learning and Leadership from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. 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
Maher, Thomas — Instrumental Music Faculty, Brass
tmaher@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2018
Tom Maher is the Brass Specialist and Orchestra Director at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts). He teaches a variety of courses including Jazz Lab Band, Harmony, 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. In the community, Mr. Maher serves as a member of the Allentown Symphony's Composer Consortium. READ MORE
Manavizadeh, Nader — School Counselor, Students with Last Names: A-G
nmanavizadeh@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2433
This is Mr. Manavizadeh's second year at Charter Arts. Mr. Manavizadeh is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. He earned his M.S. in K-12 School Counseling/Counselor Education from Kutztown University, M.S. in Forensic Psychology/Criminal Justice from Tiffin University and his B.S. in Psychology from University of Albany. He previously worked as a school-based partial therapist and outpatient therapist with Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit. Mr. Manavizadeh was raised in Allentown and currently lives in Bethlehem with his wife, Allison, and beagle puppy, Daisy. READ MORE
Mathews, Brett — Production Arts Faculty
bmathews@charterarts.org
Brett Mathews is a Production Arts faculty member with experience in theatre and video production. Prior to joining the Charter Arts team, Brett worked as the production manager at Pennsylvania Youth Theater, where he found joy in working with adolescents and helping them to find their own voices through the arts. He earned bachelor's degrees in Theatre Stage Management and Media & Communications Production from Muhlenberg College. READ MORE
Meehan-Mariano, Erin — Assistant Principal
emariano@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3121
Mrs. Erin Meehan-Mariano holds her K-12 Principal certification from Holy Family University and is currently pursuing her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership at Wilkes University. Prior to working as an Assistant Principal, she served as an English teacher in both private and public education. Mrs. Mariano holds her 7-12 English certification from Kutztown University. READ MORE
Mensher, Heath — Literary Arts Faculty
hmensher@charterarts.org
Mr. Mensher has a Bachelor's degree 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. READ MORE
Mohr, Elyse — School Counselor, Students with Last Names: Q-Z, 10th-12th Grade P
emohr@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3157
Mrs. Mohr received her MS in School Counseling from Capella University in 2014 and her BA in Psychology from McDaniel College in 2009. Mrs. Mohr worked for the past five years as a School Counselor at Lehigh Valley Academy. This is her first year working with high school students and she is excited to meet them. She lives in Whitehall with her husband, Chris and son, Wyatt and two dogs, Zoey and Watson. 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
Nesfeder, Amy — Chair, Social Studies Department
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
610-868-2971 Ext. 2470
Ms. Nolt loves her job in the special education department after teaching in the former figure skating program for nine years. In her lengthy career as a skating competitor, performer, and coach, Ms. Nolt has worked with children of all ages, abilities, and temperaments in various environments. She is currently pursuing her certification and master's degree in special education through DeSales University. READ MORE
Orcutt-Fraser, Adriane — Dance Faculty
Orlando, Cristina — Facilities Team
corlando@charterarts.org
Parra, Anthony — Social Studies Faculty
aparra@charterarts.org
Patterson, Aaron — Instrumental Music Faculty, Woodwinds
apatterson@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2015
Dr. Aaron Patterson is the Woodwind Specialist at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts. He teaches Woodwind Techniques, Music History, Music Theory, Music Theatre, and Chamber Music. Originally of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Dr. Patterson studied music education and performance at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (BS, MM). A music teacher for nearly twenty years, Dr. Patterson has worked in both public and private schools as well as in higher education and educational outreach. He completed his Doctorate of Musical Arts (DMA) in Saxophone Performance at Manhattan School of Music in 2014; his dissertation explored the use of saxophone in both the stage and film orchestrations of Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story. READ MORE
Price, Olivia — Counseling Suite Administrative Assistant
oprice@charterarts.org
Rainey, Sarah — Vocal Music Faculty
srainey@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Sarah Rainey is extremely excited to be joining the Charter Arts family as a member of the Vocal Faculty. Miss Rainey was born and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania and has been singing as long as she has been speaking. She earned a BME in Music Education and a Professional Performance certificate from Penn State University as well as a MM in Voice Performance from Temple University. Before joining the faculty at Charter Arts, Miss Rainey spent two years teaching elementary music and choir within the Delaware Valley School District in Milford, PA. READ MORE
Ramirez, Julia — Dance Faculty
jramirez@charterarts.org
Julia Ramirez is an emerging artist currently based in Jersey City, NJ. She is a 2023 graduate from the Rutgers Graduate School of Education at Rutgers University with her Master’s degree (Ed.M.) in Dance Education and a 2022 graduate of Rutgers Mason Gross School of the Arts and was awarded the Margery J. Turner Choreography Award for a work of exceptional undergraduate student group choreography. Throughout 2023, she completed a residency at Mark Morris Dance Center in Brooklyn, NY and presented her newest work, Kinematic Indeterminacy. She was also a guest artist at Riverside Elementary School In Motion’s After School Program in Princeton, New Jersey. She is currently the Media and Artistic Assistant of David Dorfman Dance and since 2020 has worked diligently as a member of their administrative team, a rehearsal assistant, a guest teacher, and a production assistant. In the summer of 2022, she co-created and taught at LEAP in New Haven, Connecticut alongside Nik Owens. For the 2023-2024 season she is a dance educator at Lehigh Valley Charter High School of the Arts in Bethlehem, PA, Washington Rock Dance in Warren, New Jersey, and Accent School of Dance, Allentown, PA. READ MORE
Reinhard, Lorie — Artistic Director, Visual Arts
lreinhard@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3155
Lorie Reinhard has been a faculty member of Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts since its inception. She received her Bachelors in Art Education from Moravian College in 2001, Masters of Figurative Painting from the Academy of Art University in 2013, and a Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Moravian College in 2020. Ms. Reinhard’s M.Ed thesis entitled, Metacognition and Mentorship in Secondary Art Education is an action research study about how the artistic process and positive mentorship in an art studio impacts the development of higher level thinking in high school art students. READ MORE
Samsel, Colleen — Dance Faculty
csamsel@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Colleen Samsel is a graduate of Temple University with a BFA in dance. Colleen is trained extensively in Ballet/Pointe, Modern, Jazz and Tap. She brings 28 years of teaching experience, focused on proper technique and influencing her students to find their inner passion for movement! Many of Colleen's past students have gone on to teach, perform, and open studios! READ MORE
Sarmir, Laura — Social Worker
lsarmir@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2220
Laura Abell graduated from Millersville University with a B.A. in social work and is in the process of obtaining her masters of social work. She is very excited to kick off her career at Charter Arts! READ MORE
Sarte, Erin — School Counselor for Students with Last Names: H-O, 9th grade P
esarte@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 3154
Before coming to Charter Arts, Mrs. Sarte worked in college admissions for a year at Cedar Crest College and then was a High School Academic and College Advisor for two years at Bridgeway Academy. She has her Bachlors in Psychology from Cedar Crest College and a Masters's in Psychology from The University of Arizona Global Campus. READ MORE
Scheiber, Vanessa — Executive Assistant to the Executive Director & CEO
vscheiber@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2448
Schmoyer, Ellen — Production Arts Faculty
eschmoyer@charterarts.org
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
Shehan, Catherine — Literary Arts Faculty
cshehan@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2411
Mx. Kitsey Shehan graduated from Millersville University in 2020, during the midst of the Pandemic with their Undergraduate Degree in Secondary English Education. During their time at MU, they were Editor in Chief for the collegiate literary magazine and graduated Magna cum laude. They previously taught in alternative education for the School District of Lancaster. Their passion is imaginative fiction writing, especially centered around comparative mythology and folktales. Their passions have taken them as far as Greece to write and reimagine myths. READ MORE
Squerrini, Ann Marie — Director of Admissions and Assessments
asquerrini@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3137
Mrs. Squerrini handles all phases of the admissions process for incoming students. She coordinates all audition appointments. In addition, Mrs. Squerrini manages school assessments such as Keystone Exams and Placement Testing. She also has an artistic side, having been a former professional actor, director, and choreographer originally from New Jersey and has appeared regionally at Paper Mill Playhouse, New Jersey Public Theatre, Bucks County Playhouse, Pocono Playhouse, and Hunterdon Hills Playhouse as well as many others in the tri-state area. READ MORE
Stoop, Florentine — Chair, World Languages Department
fstoop@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2222
Mx. Stoop joined the Charter Arts community in 2017, teaching two levels of Chinese. Since then, they have grown and developed the Mandarin program to its current state - offering four levels of Mandarin courses. Mx. Stoop is passionate about languages and communication. They received their B.A. in East Asian Studies and Chinese from Ursinus College. They lived in Nanjing, China in 2015, studying Mandarin, Chinese culture, and exploring mainland China. Some of their favorite places they visited were Xi'an, Hangzhou, Dunhuang, and Shanghai. They are excited to share their knowledge and experience with students. READ MORE
Tappert, Catherine — School Nurse
nurse@charterarts.org
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, US2, Government, Psychology, and Sociology within the Social Studies department since then. Currently, she is the faculty advisor for Student Council. She grew up in Huntingdon Valley, PA before moving to Wilmington, Delaware. Ms. 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. She is also obtaining her M.A. in History from East Stroudsburg University. READ MORE
Vinci, Theresa — Chief Operating Officer
tvinci@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2434
Wagner, Diane — Theatre Faculty
dwagner@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3146
Diane Wagner is a writer, actress, and educator who returned to the Lehigh Valley in 2003 to join the inaugural faculty at Charter Arts. She served as the Artistic Director of the Department from 2004 to 2021, and in that time, produced over 60 productions. Diane received a BA in English Communications from DeSales University and an MFA in Acting from Louisiana State University. READ MORE
Wagner, Karin — Marketing, Advancement & Communications Manager
kwagner@charterarts.org
This office handles fundraising and advancement initiatives for Charter Arts and the Charter Arts Foundation. All school marketing initiatives including social media are managed by this office. READ MORE
Wagner, Karin — Marketing, Advancement & Communications Coordinator
kwagner@charterarts.org
Weaver, Jennifer — Artistic Director, Dance
jweaver@charterarts.org
(610) 868-2971 Ext. 3122
Jennifer Dite Weaver holds an MFA in Dance 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. Her TV/film credits include “He Said, She Said” with Talk TV International, Marci X with Paramount Pictures, and commercials with Adidas, Bell Atlantic, and Time Warner. She has choreographed Singin’ In The Rain for Shawnee Playhouse & Charter Arts, Bye Bye Birdie and The Wizard of Oz for Ohev Shalom, Candide for The Muhlenberg Summer Music Theater, and Jack and The Beanstalk for Playful Productions. READ MORE
Weiner, Kim — Attendance Coordinator
kweiner@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 Ext. 2459
Kimberly Weiner the Charter Arts team last school year. She has a Bachelors of Social Work Degree from Kutztown University. Prior to joining Charter Arts, Kimberly worked with adolescent youth and their families at a local youth homeless shelter for just over 15 years. Kimberly wants to help ensure a safe and supportive community for all Charter Arts students. In order for our students to achieve excellence in arts and academics, they must first achieve excellence in attendance. READ MORE
Weissman, Hana — English Faculty
hwiessman@charterarts.org
610-868-2971
Ms. Wiessmann is a recent graduate from West Chester University of Pennsylvania (class of 22') with a BSED in Secondary English Education. Ms. Wiessmann is thrilled to be teaching Principles of Literary Analysis CP (10th grade English), American Literature CP (11th grade English) and Yearbook for the 2023-2024 academic year. Outside of the classroom Ms. Wiessmann is a published photographer and alumni of the WCUPA Photography Club. READ MORE
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 Instrumental Music
mwells@charterarts.org
610-868-2971 ext. 3129
Matthew 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. Mr. Wells also completed a Masters in Music with a concentration in Wind Conducting from Messiah University. READ MORE
Wilson-Kelly, Kelly — English Department Chair
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
Wolkoff, Patrick — Social Studies Faculty
pwolkoff@charterarts.org
Patrick Wolkoff (He/Him) is a dedicated Social Studies teacher with a passion for equitable education and project-based learning. A graduate of the Masters' program at Saint Michael's College in Colchester, Vermont with experience teaching at all levels, Patrick believes in providing students with a place to explore their interests, pursue their passions and utilize their critical thinking skills all while adhering to rigorous academic standards. READ MORE
