Kid Stars Rising Christian
Learning Academy
2122 Hope Mills Road
Fayetteville, NC 28304
(Grades PK-1)
6248 Cliffdale Road
Fayetteville, NC 28314
(Grades 2-12)
c/o Mount Gilead Church
Where Christian character is made and
lifelong learning is inspired!
Contact Dr. Simmons for enrollment questions at:
Phone: 910-779-8085
Fax: 910-779-3290
Email: ssimmons@kidstarsrisingacademy.com
In partnership with Mt. Gilead Baptist Church
Dr. Dennis Long, Pastor
6248 Cliffdale Road
Fayetteville, NC 28314
https://www.facebook.com/mountgileadbaptistch/
About Kid Stars Rising
Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy is open between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
The schedules for our schools are as follows:
7:00-8:00 Before School Care (PK-1st Grade Only) - 2122 Hope Mills Road Location
7:00-7:55 Breakfast (Elementary and Intermediate/ Middle School/High Schools)
8:00-2:30 Primary School Hours
8:00-2:30 Intermediate/Middle School/High School Hours
2:30-4:30 After School Care - 6248 Cliffdale Road location.
Parents can elect any or all of these services depending on their child(ren)'s needs.
Parents will need to transport their children to Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy for the before school care service. Transportation is available between schools in the afternoon for families with children in our multiple facilities.
The academic school year 2025-2026 will begin on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, with open enrollment throughout the year as space permits! Our small class sizes provide the opportunity for students to receive the differentiated/small group instruction on the academic level that suits their individual needs. We also have the capacity to offer asynchronous (virtual/online) instruction to those who need this due to extenuating services with administrative approval. We love children and will be thrilled to have your child(ren) become a part of the Kid Stars Rising Family!
Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy aims to provide its students with a rigorous and holistic academic education, which includes instilling good morals and character development by teaching them what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Using faith-based curriculums and other traditional and digital resources, highly qualified staff will ensure daily that students engage in hands-on activities, and a well-rounded curriculum that entails reading, math, science, social studies, technology, art, music, physical education, media, Bible Study, Spanish, French, Business & Finance, other various electives, and relevant field trips.
Early enrollment is available and will be open throughout the year as spaces permit. Please contact one of our friendly staff members who will assist you with any questions or concerns at her respective email address:
Dr. Sharonne Simmons- Principal - ssimmons@kidstarsrisingacademy.com
Teresa Rubio - Associate Principal - trubio@kidstarsrisingacademy.com
Sherry Hutchens - Associate Principal - shutchens@kidstarsrisingacademy.com
Monica Lene' - K-5 Lead Teacher - mlene@kidstarsrisingacademy.com
Open House for our students in prekindergarten - 12th grade will take place on Thursday, August 29, 2025, from 3:30 pm - 6:30 pm at the child's respective school. More information will be provided for each location's actual time. This will afford parents the opportunity to take a tour of our facilities and meet your child's teacher before the official start of school. We look forward to our parents partnering with us and having an active voice in the school's future moving forward.
Why choose Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy?
- Very affordable and competitive tuition rates (prorated for partial enrollment).
- Registration fee - $50.00 - non-refundable
- An ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) Accredited Lead Administrator.
- Fully recognized by the United States Department of Education.
- North Carolina Opportunity Scholarship and ESA+ (Disability Grants and Education Savings Account) programs participant.
- Prestigiously featured on Schools & Colleges Listings Forum for prospective applicants (https://www.schoolandcollegelistings.com/).
- Partnership with Child Aware of America - A subsidy program that assists military families with childcare costs.
- Pending administration approval, a virtual/asynchronous learning option is available if the need arises.
- BSAC (Basic School-Age Care) certified staff members.
- CPR/First Aid certified staff members.
- A personal and nurturing faith-based educational environment.
- Experienced/state-certified owner along with certified & highly qualified teachers and administrators who provide differentiated instruction for students who need extra assistance.
- Research-based and faith-based curriculum, with other accompanying resources.
- Gradelink School Management and Communication Platform.
- Class Dojo Communication Platform.
- Technology devices available for every student in grades K-12.
- Nutritious snacks offered at after school care daily.
- Before and after school care available for the students of Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy and Sherwood Park Elementary School.
- Summer tutoring program available in June for students in kindergarten to eighth grade.
- Bible Summer Camp available for students in grades K-12. Bible Camp is available each year in June. During this time, students participate in Bible-themed arts and crafts, learn memory verses, and attend several field trips.
What We Believe
STATEMENT OF FAITH
We believe in GOD (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) according to Matthew 28:19, and HIS importance in the training of true discipleship for all mankind. We believe the Bible to be the true and unwavering Word of GOD according to 2 Timothy 3:16-17. We believe in the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ our KING. We believe that the Holy Spirit is alive and is the guiding force of all today's believers.
OUR VISION
Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy is dedicated to providing learners with a holistic education that values academics, diversity and moral character and prepares them to successfully compete in a global world.
OUR MISSION
Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy commissions its students to grow academically, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually in order to become lifelong learners in an environment where high academic achievement and Christ-like character are the top priorities in their lives inside and outside of the classroom.
Source: http://www.acsi.org (2025)
Kindergarten
1st Grade
3rd Grade
4th Grade
5th Grade
6th Grade
NOW ENROLLING FOR THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR! Grades: PreK, EC, Kindergarten-12th OPEN ENROLLMENT THROUGOUT THE YEAR AS SPACE PERMITS! Please contact us at 910-779-8085 to request a tour of our schools! Items needed for registration are: *Registration Fee - $50.00 *Child's Birth Certificate *Immunization Records *Most recent report card (if applicable) *Latest test scores (from previous school) *Other academic or behavioral records (i.e. IEP, BIP, or 504 Plan)
MEET THE FOUNDERS
FOUNDERS/OWNERS OF KID STARS RISING CHRISTIAN LEARNING ACADEMY
Mr. David Simmons & Dr. Sharonne Simmons
Many years ago, Dr. Sharonne Simmons had a tremendous dream to open up a recreation center for school-aged children and help enhance their academic, physical, social, and spiritual growth. Her love for children and her passion for their happiness and success have always been the "whys" in her educational journey. In 2018, The LORD called her to greater works than she could ever imagine by commissioning her to open a K-5 school, giving her the name "Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy." Hence, the school opened its doors on June 17, 2019. After three years of serving only elementary school students, in 2022, the LORD tested her faith and inspired her to branch out and expand the school to grades PreK-12.
TEAM KSR CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
AIM HIGH, SHOOT FAR & SHINE BRIGHT!
We LOVE what we do, we INSPIRE our students to learn, and we TEACH them academics, social etiquette, and how to live a life that pleases GOD.
TESTIMONIALS
Parent Information Page
KSR Master Calendar 2024-2025
The master calendar displays important events that are scheduled for this school year. The master calendar is a working document and new events may be added throughout the year as needed. In the case of a new event being added or an already scheduled event changed, families will be notified in advance.
Read More2024-2025 School Supply Lists
Please check out your child's supply list for the upcoming school year.
Read MorePrimary School 2024-2025 Student/Parent Handbook
This handbook is geared towards parents who have students in Prekindergarten-1st grade. Please read this book in its entirely so you will be completely familiar with the rules and expectations at Kid Stars Rising Christian Academy.
Read MoreIntermediate/Secondary School 2024-2025 Student/Parent Handbook
This handbook is geared towards parents who have students in second-twelfth grades. Please read this book in its entirely so you will be completely familiar with the rules and expectations at Kid Stars Rising Christian Academy.
Read MoreFourth Quarter Awards Celebration
Join us for the kindergarten graduation and fourth quarter awards program on Thursday, May 29th at 3:15 pm and 5:30 pm, respectively, in the Mt. Gilead Sanctuary. Dinner will be served in the Fellowship Hall before the celebration. We look forward to seeing you there!
Read MoreTeacher of the Year 2025-2026
North Carolina Scholarships
Need More Information?
Visit: Opportunity Scholarship - NCSEAA
Visit: Education Student Accounts (ESA+) Program - NCSEAA
Scholarships for High School Students
Scholarships and College Admission Information for High Schoolers
Is your high schooler planning to attend college in the near future? At Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy, our students will be provided with the appropriate college prep exams such at the ACT and SAT, and other tools needed to prepare them for the next step in their educational journey. Please find in this section the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, scholarship information, and direct links to apply to some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in North Carolina. For further questions, please contact us via email and we will answer any other college-related questions that you or your child may have.
Learn MoreACT Test Prep
Get full access to test-aligned study material and ace your exam. Try it free for 30 days,
Learn MoreSAT Test Prep
Get full access to test-aligned study material and ace your exam. Try it free for 30 days.
Learn MoreCURRICULUM
Who We Serve
The target market of Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy are children in pre-kindergarten up to those in twelfth grade (ages 4-19) who are comfortable in a least restrictive educational environment and/or may have mild mental inhibitors such as Autism, Attention Hyperactive Deficit Disorder and Specific Learning Disabilities. The principal and staff will work diligently to ensure that each child has differentiated instruction that will meet his or her individual needs.
Abeka Curriculum
Students will be educated using the Abeka curriculum. Millions of Christian school students have used Abeka since it started in 1972. Students taught with Abeka have been accepted into prestigious colleges and gone on to serve the LORD in demanding careers. For over forty years, schools and homeschooling families have trusted Abeka to provide materials using the traditional approach proven successful throughout education’s history (https://www.abeka.com, 2019). The Abeka curriculum is very affordable and versatile for all age groups. Professionally illustrated textbooks and teaching aids, hands-on activities, challenging exercises, purposeful repetition, and the reinforcement of concepts from subject to subject give teachers the proper tools to make learning interesting and memorable. Each subject’s content comes from the work of skilled, dedicated scholars who have conducted primary research. Students have the opportunity to experience academic excellence and build moral character that leave them equipped for life (https://www.abeka.com, 2019).
Learn More
America The Beautiful History Curriculum
Author Charlene Notgrass designed the curriculum for students to use successfully in 5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade, or 8th grade. It combines the flexibility and richness of a literature-based unit study approach with the simplicity of a textbook-based approach. Daily lessons guide students chronologically through the history of the United States, highlighting key events, people, and places. With the lessons planned for you, you can enjoy learning history with your students, or your students can use the curriculum independently.
Learn More
Bob Jones Science Curriculum
Bob Jones provides an exceptional science curriculum that does more than teach middle and high school students to memorize scientific facts. Students today need to be able to interpret and apply scientific knowledge through the lens of a biblical worldview. The BJU Press science curriculum is designed with the goal of helping students to use science to wisely understand and steward God’s World for His glory.
Learn MorePROGRAMS
Regular Academic School Day
The duration of the academic school day at Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy is 8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. for the primary school, and 8:00 am - 2:30 p.m. for the intermediate/middle/high school. Each day begins with pledges to the Bible, the Christian flag, and the American flag followed by morning prayer. Middle and high school students will also participate in daily Bible study. Chapel is available every Friday morning where children review and discuss Biblical topics and themes. Children will engage in daily learning experiences that encompass the core subjects of English Language Arts, Spelling, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Resource classes such as Physical Education, Music, Art, Computers, Media, Guidance/Bible Study, and Middle/High School Spanish (2nd semester) will be available each week for the children. Lunch and recess are also included in the daily schedule.
Before and After School Care Programs
Our before and after school care programs will cater to students who attend Kid Stars Rising Academy and other surrounding private and public schools. Students will be allotted time to complete their homework, have a morning or afternoon snack, and participate in fun-filled activities such as outdoor recess, indoor dramatic play, technology, and arts and crafts. Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, before care will be available at 7:00 - 8:00 am, and after school care will be available at 2:30-4:30 pm.
Exceptional Children's Program
The Exceptional Children's Program provides specialized educational support and resources for children with unique learning needs. Students with IEPs, 504 plans, FBAs and BIPS will have the opportunity to use the accommodations as stated on their documents to make their school days more successful. Professional therapists and coaches are allowed on both campuses to provide services as needed. Students may also receive weekly pull-out services (as applicable) with our experienced resource educators. Ms. Ali Lovano, the owner of Be the Change Behavior, has partnered with Kid Stars Rising to assist us with writing behavior plans and coaching our teachers, arming us with research-based strategies to support our students with Autism, Aspergers, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) & Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), speech-delays, and other special learning disabilities. With the assistance of these professionals and resources, we can provide our exceptional children with the confidence they need to find sustainable academic, behavioral, and social success in their lives during and beyond the school day.
Class Dojo
Class Dojo will be used this year as one of our primary forms of communication for our Academy. The Principal is a certified Class Dojo Mentor and will guide the information shared in your child's classroom and on our Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy's School Story. Class Dojo is the fun-named digital platform that works to connect teachers, students, and families in and out of the physical classroom by using a feed of photos and videos as well as messaging. While a photo and video feed from the classroom to parents and guardians is popular these days, and certainly not a unique service, the messaging part is a little more rare. Class Dojo specializes by offering a decent messaging service with built-in translation for up to 35 languages and a rating system for monitoring student progress.
Learn More
Gradelink
Gradelink is a student information system (SIS) that connects administrators, teachers, parents, and students in one seamless system. From grading to attendance, scheduling to homework, discipline to medical records, Gradelink school software is powerful, flexible, and easy to use. This program has raised our communication levels within and outside of the school to a whole new level.
KSR Secondary School Honor Society
The KSR Honor Society is reserved for the students in grades 6-12 who have and maintain at least a 3.5 GPA or higher in their academic coursework. In addition to maintaining high academic achievement, the students in the society must exemplify the four pillars of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. These students will ultimately become a part of the National Junior Honor Society and the National Honor Society once they have proven themselves trustworthy to be selected for either of these prestigious honors. Our Honor Society sponsor will facilitate these programs.
STARS Mentorship
The STARS Mentoring Program will be available by January each year. Students Taking A Radical Stand will be available for students in grades 3-12 every other Tuesday afternoon from 3:00-4:00 depending on enrollment. This time is when students will discuss Biblical principles and scenarios that will prepare them for life's challenges. The Principal will provide opportunities for students to engage in activities that support character development, study skills, respecting parents and other authority figures, and standing up to bullies. Christian-based music, art, dance, and virtual activities are included. As safety permits, we will take two off-campus field trips each school year. This program is free for students.
Summer Bible Camp/Tutoring Program
Summer Bible Camp and tutoring is offered in June. This year, we will accept students in kindergarten-12th grade who need specialized help in the areas of reading math, science, and social studies. The North Carolina Essential Standards will be reinforced during these sessions. From June 2 - June 30, 2025, we will provide a traditional or online format based on your students' needs. We also provide a flexible schedule that caters to your busy lives. In addition to core teaching, students will learn key Bible verses and the stories of the heroes of faith. Please contact Dr. Sharonne Simmons for details at ssimmons@kidstarsrisingacademy.com. Very affordable and flexible rates. Please see the application in the LEARN MORE tab.
Learn MoreELECTIVES - Middle School & High School
ADMISSIONS
PROSPECTIVE FAMILY INQUIRY FORM
Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy is a private, faith-based school. We would like to know if your child will be a good fit in our stringent religious standards. We make it a priority at KSR to ensure that our children are not only taught core academic values, but also strong faith-based values that help them to develop a deep understanding of what JESUS CHRIST requires of us to win souls for HIM on a daily basis. So whether you are new to the area and trying to decide on a school for your student, or a local resident trying to find a wholesome, Christ-centered education that compliments your family's home life, we are ready to welcome you. We look forward to meeting you and assisting your family in the admissions process.
Read More
APPLY NOW!
After the initial interview, and if you are in agreement with the terms and your child meets the following criteria, we encourage you to continue with the application process. *Your child is at least passing all CORE classes (Math, English, Social Studies, and Science) and is in good standing at his/her current school. * The student and at least one parent is committed to embracing the principles of the Holy Bible and willing to abide by the biblical standards set forth by Kid Stars Rising. *If by September 30th, your student will be 5 years old for kindergarten.
Read MoreADMINISTRATION
FACULTY & STAFF
Jessica Dowden
Prekindergarten Teacher
Mrs. Jessica Dowden has over fifteen years of administrative service and client support. She has experience in healthcare, communications, coaching, and excellent customer service. Mrs. Dowden has a strong desire to support, mentor, and coach peers in professional settings. She is a multitasker, who pays attention to details under pressure.
Carolyn Williams
Kindergarten Teacher (PK-1st Grade Lead Teacher)
My name is Carolyn Williams, the proud mother of two, grandmother of six, and great grandmother of three. I received an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education and have worked in the school system for 22 years, primarily in kindergarten. I enjoy working with children and helping them grow.
Angela Snow Powell
First Grade Teacher
My name is Angela Snow Powell. I retired from Hoke County Schools after 20 years of dedicated service, during which I held roles as a Pre-K Teacher Assistant, After-School Care Program Staff, and Child Nutrition Assistant. I take great pleasure in nurturing children and supporting their development.
Tanya Fortune
Instructional Assistant (K/1st Grades) - Administrative Assistant
Tanya Fortune brings to Kid Stars Rising a variety of skill sets and strengths. She has been with the Academy since its inception in June 2019 and has served wherever needed as an administrative assistant, classroom teacher, teacher assistant, and resource teacher.
Sharon Holmes
Third/Fourth Grades Teacher
Mrs. Sharon Holmes comes to Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy with extensive experience, dedication and a talent for inspiring her students to achieve academic excellence. She earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Education at Fayetteville State University. She taught in the North Carolina Public School System for 21 years. She also worked in the New York Public School System for 16 years. She has retired from both systems with a total of 37 successful years of teaching.
Monica Bonnell-Lene’
Fourth/Fifth Grades-(2nd-5th Grades Lead Teacher)
I am blessed to be a part of Kid Stars Rising Academy. I am so excited to join such an amazing team and to work with each of you and your children. It is my goal to educate, encourage, and love every child on an individual basis according to their academic needs in a way that will help them reach their goals and their full potential in all areas of the curriculum.
Chanda Sparrow
Multi-Age EC Teacher
Picture and bio coming soon!
Alexandra Dunshee-Wilkins
PK-5 Resource Teacher
My name is Alexandra Dunshee-Wilkins. My moto is: Every day we wake up is another day to try again. Our mistakes from yesterday do not determine what we can do today. I have a love for God, my family, and children. I have had a love for children from an early age. I was volunteering in the nursery at Sandy Grove Church or babysitting since I was 12 years old.
Dr. Sharonne Simmons
Bible Study l & ll/ MS/ HS Electives/ Chapel
Dr. Sharonne Simmons has 24 years of experience in public and private school education. She is a certified and licensed classroom teacher and former school administrator in North Carolina Public Schools. She earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Fayetteville Technical Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-6), and a Master of School Administration, both from Fayetteville State University. She is a North Carolina Principal Fellow.
Teresa Rubio
Middle/High School Electives Teacher
Teresa Rubio was born and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and has dedicated over two decades to the field of education.
Sherry Hutchens
Middle/High School Electives Teacher
My name is Sherry Hutchens. I am a mother of 4 and a proud grandmother of 15 wonderful grandchildren- Family is one of my greatest joys and what keeps me grounded in what truly matters. It’s an honor to be a part of helping to guide and shape young minds in an environment where Christ is the center of everything we do.
Elicia Johnson
English/Language Arts Teacher - Middle/High School
Bio coming soon!
Maurice Morgan
Math Teacher- Middle/High School
Mr. Morgan is a seasoned mathematics teacher who has served five years as an accomplished educator. Educated at Fayetteville State University, Mr. Morgan is extremely fluent in math, currently earning his Bachelor of Science Degree in Middle Grades Education.
Jessica Cruse
History/Science Teacher - Middle/High School
Ms. Jessica Cruse is a team player who is hardworking and dedicated to meeting goals and objectives with excellence. She has excellent communication skills, both verbally and in written correspondence. Ms. Cruse holds an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Paralegal Studies from Miller-Motte College, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Fayetteville State University. She has also studied for one year at Kaplan Real Estate School but had to pause due to the Covid pandemic.
Isabella Daussey
French I & French Il/Spanish l & Spanish II (MS/HS)
Picture and bio coming soon!
Gekni Blue
After School Care Director
My name is Gekni Blue. I was born and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, in a proud military family—my father served 25 years in the Armed Forces, and my mother devoted her career to Cumberland County Schools. Growing up in this environment instilled in me the values of discipline, responsibility, and service from an early age. I am a proud alumna of Terry Sanford Senior High School, where I laid the academic foundation for my future. As a mother of four daughters, I have always been deeply committed to nurturing and supporting the next generation.
Pamela Burtis
Floater/ After School Care Assistant
Picture and bio coming soon!
Contact Us
- 2122 Hope Mills Road, Fayetteville, NC, USA Primary School
- 6248 Cliffdale Road, Fayetteville, NC, USA Intermediate/Middle/High School
- +1-910-779-8085 - Dr. Sharonne Simmons
- ssimmons@kidstarsrisingacademy.com
- REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday - CLOSED
