The Academy Charter School
Vanessa Evans is an experienced educator and executive with a strong background in special education and the arts. Currently serving as a Special Education Teacher at The Academy Charter School since January 2019, Vanessa integrates special education within a college preparatory environment, teaching a variety of subjects to high school students. As the Executive/Artistic Director of the TALKING DRUM Theatre Arts Program, Vanessa leads initiatives that empower youth through the arts, fostering leadership and conflict resolution skills. Previous roles include Head Drama Teacher at Mary McDowell Friends School, where Vanessa developed inclusive theater curriculum for students with learning disabilities, and Regional Program Director positions for Signature Learning Resources and Interactive Therapy Group, overseeing special education services. Vanessa's foundational education includes an M.A. in Special Education from Lehman College and a B.S. in Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana.