Charissa was born in West Chester, PA and attended the academy for her junior and senior years of high school. She majored in History Education and minored in Computer Education. During the summers she served in various roles at High Point Camp – from counselor to snack shop manager or office staff to craft shop manager – she enjoys working with people from all walks of life. She has taught history and computer both in Memphis, Tennessee and Geigertown, Pennsylvania.  After five years of teaching she became a full time foster and adoptive parent and has served on various boards to support local foster and adoptive families ever since. Charissa and a close friend started a non-profit closet for foster and adoptive youth, and she continues to be passionate about strengthening individuals and families.

Once her four children were old enough to be enrolled at the High Point, she returned to the classroom with enthusiasm and thoroughly enjoys spending her days teaching keyboarding, getting to know students and their families, and serving at the non-profit. She’s experienced firsthand how technology, used correctly, can be a powerful tool for good and she’s passionate about equipping her students with the tools they will need to help others throughout the rest of their lives.