Contact Dr. Simmons to schedule a tour at:
Phone: 910-779-8085
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/
We believe in GOD (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) according to Matthew 28:19 and Acts 2:38, 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.
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.
Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy commissions to grow, educate, engage, and empower students to become lifelong learners in a dynamic world where Christ-like character is the top priority in their lives in the school and community.
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 MoreAfter 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 MoreMr. David Simmons & Dr. Sharonne Simmons
Many years ago, Dr. Sharonne Simmons had a tremendous dream to open 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 expand the school to grades PreK-12.
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.
PRINCIPAL & FOUNDER (Ministry Leader) Exceptional Children/ Middle/High School Administrator
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 holds two Associate of Applied Science degrees, the first in Hotel & Restaurant Management from Phillips Junior College (Fayetteville), and the second 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. Her Doctor of Education (Educational Leadership) was conferred upon her from Gardner-Webb University in August 2018. Before transitioning to school administration, Dr. Simmons took several classes of History (Grades 9-12) at Fayetteville State University. Dr. Simmons has worked as a lead teacher in the children's church ministry at various churches for over 30 years. She served as a Christian Education Director and a Young Adult Christian Ministry Leader.
ADMINSTRATOR/(Ministry Co-Leader)/ Middle/High School Administrator/ Maintenance & Grounds/ Supplies/ Transportation
David Simmons is a veteran of the United States Air Force. Educated at Fayetteville Technical Community College, his specialties are visual arts and computer/tech repair. Mr. Simmons has a pure heart for GOD and loves children. He is an invaluable asset to Kid Stars Rising and assists in all areas of the schools. Mr. Simmons is an active member of Fresh Anointing Christian Church, where he plays in the church band to help build the Kingdom of GOD.
ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL /Testing Coordinator/2nd-5th Grades Administrator
Teresa Rubio was born and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and has dedicated over two decades to the field of education. She holds an Associate Degree in Arts from Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC), a Bachelor of Science with a concentration in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP), and a Master’s Degree in School Administration and Supervision from Liberty University. Teresa has also earned certification in Mathematics from East Carolina University (ECU) and received a STEM endorsement through the NASA Connections Program.
ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL/Special Events/ PK-1st Grade Administrator
My name is Sherry Hutchens; I am an Associate Principal at Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy. I am blessed to serve in Christian Education and having the opportunity to combine my love for faith, learning, and leadership. With over 20 years in management, I strive to support our staff and students with grace, structure, and a heart for service. 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.
EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN, GRADES 2-5 LEAD TEACHER
Ms. Monica Lene' serves our school community with loyalty, compassion, and grace. She is currently our 3rd & 4th grade teacher who has taught most of the same students in previous terms for the past three years. Ms. Lene' attended Galveston University during her senior year of high school then transferred to graduate Lamar University in 2005 and earned a Bachelor Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. She has been an educator for 23 years collectively across the states of Texas, Louisiana, California, and North Carolina. For seven years, she worked at Morganton Road Elementary gaining experience in Kindergarten-3rd grades and was named Teacher of the Year in 2018. While working at Kid Stars Rising for the past five years, she was blessed to be named the Elementary Teacher of the Year for two consecutive years: 2022-2023, and 2023-2024, respectively. We are honored to have her join our administrative team this year!
PK, KINDERGARTEN, & 1st GRADE LEAD TEACHER
Ms. Carolyn Williams received an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education and has served in Cumberland County Schools for 22 years, primarily in kindergarten. She enjoys working with children and helping them grow. Named Kid Stars Rising Christian Academy's 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year, Ms. Williams will now serve as our PreK, Kindergarten, and First Grade Lead Teacher. We joyfully welcome her to the administrative team this year!
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.
Third/Fourth Grades- (EC & 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.
English Language Arts 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 superior communication skills, both verbally and in written correspondence.
French I & French Il/Spanish l & Spanish II (MS/HS)
Hello, My name is Isabelle Daussy. I am a passionate and dedicated language teacher with 24 years of experience helping students develop strong communication skills in French and Spanish languages.
Prekindergarten Teacher
Mrs. Jessica Dowden is passionate about helping children learn and succeed by providing a relatable and structured environment where they can thrive academically and spiritually. Her successful background experience in healthcare and customer relations emphasizes her heart for service. Mrs. Dowden is a wife and mother of three. She is extremely excited to serve as the prekindergarten teacher at Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy!
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.
Instructional Assistant (K/1st Grade) - 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.
Fifth Grade 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.
Associate Principal/MS/HS 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.
Instructional Assistant (Grades 3/4)
Mrs. Tiffany Ingram is an experienced early childhood educator and dedicated leader with over nine years of teaching and management expertise. Mrs. Ingram holds an Associate Degree in Child Development from MiraCosta College in California.
History Teacher - Middle/High School/ Athletic Director
It is a great honor to welcome Coach Steven Mims to our Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy Family! He is an award-winning basketball coach with over fifteen years of experience developing and mentoring students, both on and off the court.
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, adding on a concentration in Math.
Multi EC Instructional Assistant
Second Grade Teacher
Brittany Osborne enjoys working with children of all ages and academic skills. Her experiences working with children include volunteering in children's church, babysitting, and homeschooling, in which she holds accreditations in North Carolina and New York.
Science Teacher - Middle/High School/ Robotics Chair/ National Honor Society Sponsor
My name is Mrs. Garna Parsley and I'm very excited to be back with the Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy team. I have extensive experience teaching intermediate and high school students science and math. This coming school year we will begin having a robotics team and exploring the world of Artificial Intelligence and how it relates to our everyday experiences.
Floater/After School Care Assistant Teacher
Mrs. Pam Powell-Burtis moved to Fayetteville from Irving, Texas in October of 2022 after her husband John went home to be with the Lord. She is looking forward to what the Lord has planned for her in this new chapter of her life.
Associate Principal/MS/HS Electives Teacher
Teresa Rubio was born and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and has dedicated over two decades to the field of education.
Middle/High School Administrator - Transportation
David Simmons is a veteran of the United States Air Force. Educated at Fayetteville Technical Community College, his specialties are visual arts and computer/tech repair. Mr. Simmons has a pure heart for GOD and loves children. He is an invaluable asset to Kid Stars Rising and assists in all areas of the schools.
Principal- MS/HS/Bible Study l & ll/ MS/HS Electives/ Chapel
Dr. Sharonne Simmons has twenty-four 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.
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.
Multi-Age EC Teacher
Ms. Chanda Sparrow has over twenty-five years of experience working in the medical field as a certified phlebotomy technician and a certified nursing assistant (CNA). Ms. Sparrow received her formal medical training in Norfolk, Virginia.
Kindergarten Teacher (PK-1st Grade Lead Teacher)
Ms. Carolyn Williams received an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education and has served in Cumberland County Schools for 22 years, primarily in kindergarten. She enjoys working with children and helping them grow.
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 added or an already scheduled event changed, families will be notified in advance.
Read MorePlease check out your child's supply list for the upcoming school year.
Read MoreThis 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 MoreThis handbook is geared towards parents who have students in 2nd-12th 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 MoreCalling all returning and new families! Please join Dr. Simmons and her administrative team for our yearly parent orientation meeting on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 5:30 pm in the Mt. Gilead Church Fellowship Hall. Families will meet our administrators and get more clarification on processes and procedures specific to Kid Stars Rising such as morning drop off and pick up, technology requirements, before/after care, transportation, curriculum, dress code, and Open House. We look forward to seeing everyone there!
Read MoreKids Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy is excited to announce that our school will participate in the Opportunity Scholarship and the Education Savings Account program (Disabilities Grant) for the 2025-2026 school year! These programs are tremendous resources for the families of children in grades K-12 who need financial assistance to send their child(ren) to a private school of choice. Kid Stars Rising Christian Learning Academy is a Direct Payment School.
Learn MoreIs 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 MoreGet full access to test-aligned study material and ace your exam. Try it free for 30 days,
Learn MoreGet full access to test-aligned study material and ace your exam. Try it free for 30 days.
Learn MoreThe 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.
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 MoreAuthor 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 MoreenVision® is a proven-effective math series used in math classrooms everywhere. Deep conceptual understanding is aided by visual models, personalized learning, and three-act tasks. Vertical alignment from Kindergarten through Grade 12 helps schools address mathematical standards.
Learn MoreBob 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 MoreIXL’s comprehensive K-12 curriculum provides access to more than 17,000 skills in math, English language arts, science, social studies, and Spanish. By diving into each topic, answering questions, and receiving immediate feedback to correct their mistakes, students build lasting knowledge. IXL's built-in tools help you enhance classroom teaching and keep students motivated. Make learning fun and engaging with friendly competitions, collaborative activities, and more. Plus, with thousands of video tutorials, step-by-step lessons, and corrective feedback, students have the guidance and support they need to learn independently.
Learn MoreThe 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, Bible Study, and middle/high School foreign languages (Spanish & French) will be available each week for the children. Lunch and recess are also included in the daily schedule.
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. Before care will be available at 7:00 - 8:00 am, and after school care will be available at 2:30-4:30 pm.
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 MoreThe Exceptional Children's (EC) 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.
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 quality of communication within and outside of the school to a whole new level.
Beginning in October, every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon at 2:30-3:30 pm (as permitted), students in grades 2-12 who have a heart to sing and praise the LORD through song and dance can join this after school club. During practice time, students will study choreographic dance and memorize faith-based songs to perform at special events such as awards programs, family events, our annual winter program, and graduations.
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. Mrs. Garna Parsley, our National Honor Society sponsor, will facilitate these programs.
Headed by Coach Steven Mims, our 9th-12th grade students (Shining Stars) may participate in basketball practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:30 -3:00 pm at the T.J. Robinson Life Center in Hope Mills. Families must sign a transportation waiver for student transport to the life center. In addition, a sports physical must be on file for all participating students. Coach Mims will meet with families of interested students at the beginning of the year to share pertinent information concerning the basketball program.
The STARS Mentoring Program will be available by January each year. Students Taking a Radical Stand will be available for students in grades 2-12 every other Wednesday afternoon from 2:30-3:30 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. Faith-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 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 MoreBeginning in October, students in grades 6-12 who are interested in journalism, may join the Yearbook Club. Each Monday and Wednesday afternoon at 2:30-3:30 pm (as permitted), students will brainstorm ideas and ultimately secure a theme for the 2025-2026 yearbook. With the guidance of the advisor, who will assign key roles and responsibilities, students will use their creativity to form new memories and share memories already made through colorful print.