Who we are
URBAN ACT Academy is a public charter school serving students in Anderson, Indiana, committed to developing empowered learners, critical thinkers, and compassionate leaders. Our school provides a student-centered learning environment where academic excellence, social-emotional growth, and community engagement work together to prepare students for lifelong success.
At URBAN ACT Academy, students learn through place-based and project-based experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world challenges in their own community. Through personalized learning plans, restorative school culture, and strong family partnerships, we ensure that every student receives the support and opportunities they need to thrive. Our mission is to help students become globally competitive scholars, informed citizens, and leaders who make meaningful contributions to their communities.
GRADES
Beginning with grades K–2 in 2026 and expanding to K–5, URBAN ACT Academy is designed to serve Anderson families with small class sizes, individualized attention, and a strong emphasis on literacy, critical thinking, and civic engagement.
Our Team
Nigena Livingston
Head of SchoolNigena Livingston serves as the Head of School for URBAN ACT Academy and brings more than two decades of experience in education leadership, curriculum design, and instructional development. She is the founder of URBAN ACT Academy and has successfully led the organization’s flagship school in Indianapolis, building a model focused on academic excellence, restorative practices, and whole-child development.
Throughout her career, Nigena has worked to create schools that combine rigorous academics with strong social-emotional support and deep community partnerships. Her leadership emphasizes data-driven instruction, culturally responsive teaching, and innovative approaches such as place-based learning. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration and has served in multiple leadership roles supporting educators and schools across the country.
PrincipalMark humphrey
Mark Humphrey serves as Principal of URBAN ACT Academy and is a proud Anderson native with a deep commitment to serving the community he calls home. With more than eight years of experience in urban education, Mark has dedicated his career to supporting students in high-need communities and helping close opportunity gaps for historically underserved learners.
Prior to leading the Anderson campus, Mark served in leadership roles at URBAN ACT Academy’s Indianapolis location, where he helped build a strong school culture grounded in restorative practices and social-emotional learning. His leadership focuses on building meaningful relationships with students and families, fostering a positive learning environment, and ensuring every child receives the support needed to succeed academically and personally.
Contact us
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