Leadership
Consistent, strong leadership ensures our staff, students and families receive the same level of support that is central to our impact and tied to our long-term success.
Akosua Watts
Joan K. Richards Head of School / CEO
Akosua has been an educator for over 25 years with a keen focus on helping students and fellow educators to demonstrate excellence. In 2012, she was part of the founding group for CCSA and has helped to lead the school’s development at every stage. She oversees all aspects of the K-12 instructional programming, staffing, strategic leadership and fiscal management.
Akosua came to Chester after serving as a teacher, Instructional Guide and Assistant Principal at the Russell Byers Charter School in Philadelphia. She started her career as a teacher in New York City. Drawing upon her work in the classroom, she served as an Adjunct Professor at Mercy College and a Fellow Advisor to the New York City Teaching Fellow Program. Akosua became an educator after working as a financial analyst in the investment banking industry in New York for several years.
Akosua has a Bachelor of Business Administration from George Washington University. She earned a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Columbia University’s Teachers College and completed her Principal Certification program at Eastern University.
Lisa Wilson
Director of Non-Academic Operations
Lisa Wilson has dedicated more than 30 years to serving children and families through education and school leadership. As the Director of Non-Academic Operations at Chester Charter Scholars Academy, she oversees key operational functions that support a safe, welcoming, and student-centered learning environment while ensuring the school's day-to-day operations run efficiently.
Lisa has been an integral part of Chester Charter Scholars Academy since its founding in 2012, playing a critical role in preparing the school for its opening and contributing to the school's growth through numerous leadership initiatives. Prior to joining Chester Charter Scholars Academy, Lisa served as a Reading Intervention Specialist and teacher in Chester and Philadelphia.
Lisa earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Temple University and a Master of Education in Reading from Arcadia University.
Mindy Nguyen
Director of Curriculum & Arts Integration
As a founding teacher of CCSA, Mindy has dedicated 30 years of service in urban education in a variety of roles including first grade teacher in Brooklyn and at CCSA, Museum Educator and Liaison to Public Schools at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, History/Critical Thinking teacher for high school basses at Chester Children’s Chorus and Director of Middle School at CCSA.
Her social justice and the arts integration advocacy are evident through her service as the Education Committee lead Board member at the Brandywine Workshop and Archives and work as a staff member and trained leader of the National SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) Project.
Mindy has Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Early Childhood Education from University of Pennsylvania. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in School Leadership at Gwynedd Mercy University.
Nicole DeRitis
Director of Elementary School (K-4) & 21st Century Programming
Nicole is a compassionate educator who believes in nurturing young learners so they feel safe, confident, and ready to succeed. She began her career teaching in the Chester community after earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from West Chester University. Over her 16 years in the classroom, she taught kindergarten, first, second, and third grades.
In addition to her work in K–3 education, Nicole served as an adjunct professor at Neumann University, teaching graduate courses in early childhood and special education. She also worked with the Chester Children’s Chorus for several years, leading their summer reading program and supporting literacy development for choir members.
Nicole earned her Special Education certification, Principal certification, and Master’s Degree from Neumann University. She remains committed to supporting students, families, and teachers through compassionate leadership and a belief in every child’s potential.
Dana Deminico
Director of Middle School (5-8)
Dana has been an educator for over 25 years. Throughout her career, she has been committed to improving teaching and learning through collaboration, innovation, and a strong focus on student achievement.
Dana began her career as a classroom teacher and has led professional learning, developed curriculum, implemented Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), facilitated school improvement initiatives, and coached educators across elementary and middle schools. She has also partnered with families by leading workshops that support student learning and strengthen school-home connections. In addition to her work in K–12 education, Dana has served as an adjunct professor at West Chester University and Chestnut Hill College, preparing future educators.
Dana received her Master's Degree from University of California Santa Cruz, her Doctorate from Widener University and most recently completed the Transformative Principalship program at West Chester University.
Stephanie Donofry
Director of High School (9-12)
Stephanie Donofry is a dedicated educator with nearly 20 years of experience supporting student achievement and fostering meaningful learning experiences across grade levels.
Throughout her career, Stephanie has taught at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, giving her a comprehensive understanding of students' academic and developmental needs. Her experience includes serving as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, instructional coach, and four years in school leadership.
Stephanie earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Shippensburg University. She holds master's degrees in Reading Instruction and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) from Wilmington University, as well as a Master's in Educational Leadership from California University of Pennsylvania. Most recently she earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Immaculata University.
Ryan Fisher
Director of Athletics & Character Development
Ryan is responsible for overseeing all athletic programming and key partnerships with outside organizations. He maintains laser focus on developing student character by leveraging their interest in sports and other activities. Ryan has been instrumental in the expansion of the athletic program and championed the successful campaign for CCSA to join the Bicentennial Athletic League.
Under Ryan's leadership coaches and players have earned numerous district and league championships and awards. Prior to this role, Ryan served as Assistant Athletic Director, head coach of the Girls’ Varsity Volleyball team and the founding Physical Education Teacher at CCSA. He has been serving Chester since 2012.
He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science and Education from Montclair State University.
Julie Nicols
Student Support Services Coordinator
Julie is a dedicated special education leader and instructional expert with certifications in Special Education (PK–12) and Secondary English. Prior to joining CCSA, she served as Special Education Coordinator at Philadelphia Hebrew Public Charter School and spent several years at Mastery Charter Schools, where she excelled as a special education teacher, compliance lead, and intervention leader.
Julie ensures compliance with state and federal regulations while mentoring staff to develop high-quality, data-driven IEPs that promote measurable student growth.
She holds a Master’s Degree in Urban Education from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education and a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from Fordham University, graduating with honors.
Tara Park
Strategic & Special Projects Manager
Tara is an experienced educator and school leader with more than 25 years of experience supporting student achievement and strengthening school communities. Since joining CCSA in 2014, she has served in a variety of leadership roles, including middle school teacher, Reading Intervention Teacher and Writing Coordinator, Director of Middle School.
In her current role as Strategic & Special Projects Manager, Tara is committed to developing innovative solutions, supporting educators, and leading initiatives that enhance instructinal and organizational effectiveness.
She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from West Chester University and a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from Holy Family University.