Courtney Barcus, Special Education Teacher
Legacy Team Member Since 2007
Webster University, Special Education Option - MA, Teaching
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - BS, Human Development and Family Studies
I received a bachelor's degree in human development and family studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2005. After graduation, I spent two years teaching for St. Louis Public Schools as a special education teacher. It was in St. Louis that I discovered my passion for teaching diverse learners and for child advocacy. I joined the Legacy family in 2007 and completed my master's degree in special education from Webster University in 2008. I am thrilled to be working with the scholars, parents, and staff at Legacy Charter School!

Samantha Brown, Special Education Teacher
Legacy Team Member Since 2011
University of Iowa - BA, Elementary Education

Silvana Casas-Perez, Coordinator of Specialized Services 
Legacy Team Member Since 2007
Western Michigan University - MSW
Andrews University - BSW
I have over five years of experience in the field of social work. During this time, I have worked in various settings including the foster care system, community mental health system and school system. I am excited to be a part of Legacy Charter School! I have learned and grown a lot with Legacy and I have fallen in love with our scholars and their families. I know that this is the right place for me to be, with all of the challenges, successes and joys. I will continue doing all I can to support scholars' social, emotional and academic growth, and to remain flexible in regard to the variety of ways in which I can meet this goal. My desire is that each and every scholar reaches their full potential this year, as well as every year of their lives!

Thomas Ivey, Social Worker
Legacy Team Member Since 2012
Loyola University - MSW Program
Boston University - BA, Criminal Justice

Vanessa Macias, Special Education Teacher
Legacy Team Member Since 2011
University of St. Francis - BA, Elementary Education

Louise Mettler, Special Education Teacher
Legacy Team Member Since 2011
Miami University - BFA, Architecture
I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Miami University of Ohio.  While pursuing a career building magnificent structures I had the opportunity to teach art classes to children in Cincinnati, Ohio.  Through teaching these art classes, I became inspired by my student’s excitement, zeal, and creativity.  This is just one of many experiences that lead me to discover a deep passion for teaching, which burned much brighter than my interest in architecture. To fulfill my dream of becoming a teacher I moved to Chicago and joined The National Teacher Education Center.  I earned certification in Special Education and am currently working on a master’s degree in Special Education at Quincy University.  I am thrilled to belong to the skilled team of educators at Legacy, and truly believe in the talents and creativity of each child.