ABOUT US
Personalized, advanced approach that causes children to LOVE learning.
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Here at All-Star Academy, we partner with parents and their preferred providers to deliver a personalized, exceptional education tailored to each child's unique strengths. We specialize in serving gifted learners, 2e (twice-exceptional) students, neurodivergent children (ADHD, ASD, sensory sensitivities), and those who thrive in smaller, more individualized settings. We also welcome typical learners who need a more engaging and supportive environment to excel.
Our mission is to drive a new era of education where parents have influence and each student is challenged in a holistic manner to create a fully competent, capable, and creative member of society.
Based in Preston, we are a member of the Washington Federation of Independent Schools, Cognia Global Accreditation and Improvement Network, and University of Washington's Work-Study program. We provide a holistic education, after-school enrichment, and seasonal camps for children 4-14 years old.
HOW WE OPERATE
We believe that education at its best should extend whole child development. As such, our students are taught how to grow a garden, how to care for animals and are taught social and emotional skills. We also offer optional spiritual classes of Bible Studies and mindfulness+meditation.
We use individual cognitive and academic data as well as the Montessori Method and project-based learning in order to advance each student to their potential. Further, we offer mixed-age classrooms to best support social skill development.
Our teachers are dedicated, inspiring, skillful and compassionate educators. They have been selected as role models of acceptance, unwavering kindness, self-motivation, and good citizenship.
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HOW WE STARTED
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Our Director, Brandy Simison, grew up in a small town and experienced the benefits of small classroom sizes and a tight-knit community. After training as a Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner, she saw that public and private school classrooms often hosted 25 kids to a single teacher. Children with emotional or behavioral challenges and/or exceptionalities often did not get the support or attention they needed. Parents were displeased with how they had to fight for extra support or felt obligated to have their child undergo indoctrination or education they were uncertain was beneficial or in line with their family values.
All-Star Academy was founded to break this mold—offering personalized, holistic education with an intimate 1:8 teacher-to-student ratio. Our customized learning plans, hands-on experiences, and nature-based learning provide a transformative alternative to conventional schooling.
In 2018, we started All-Star Academy to provide this type of education for the community. We are one of the most sought-after private schools with a 100% satisfaction rate consistently recorded from the families we serve (surveying each semester).
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At All-Star Academy, every child is seen, heard, and empowered to thrive. Contact us today to learn how we can help your child succeed!
Come Meet Us!
Ms. Brandy Simison, the passionate and dedicated Director of All-Star Academy. With a strong background as a Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner, Ms. Brandy brings a unique perspective to education, driven by her commitment to creating a supportive, personalized learning environment for each student. Recognizing the challenges that many children face in traditional classrooms, she has devoted her career to fostering an inclusive space where every child’s strengths and potential are celebrated. Known for her compassionate leadership and collaborative spirit, Ms. Brandy leads her team in delivering individualized support through small class sizes, customized learning plans, and hands-on experiences that connect students to their learning. Her focus on student-centered education and meaningful family engagement continues to make a profound, lasting impact on the school community.
Brandy Simison, Director
Child Behavior Specialist
Karen Kane is a compassionate instructor and certified life coach for kids who combines her expertise in mindset coaching with a variety of holistic practices, including brain balance activities, yoga, breathwork, meditation and mindfulness to help children become the best versions of themselves. With over 20 years of education experience, in a variety of settings, Karen has been a pioneer in the kids' yoga movement. In addition to her multiple Kids Yoga and Meditation certifications, Karen is also certified in Brain Gym™ and Brain Dance™, SOMA Breathwork, and WISDOM Coaching through Adventures in Wisdom™. She holds a Master's in Teaching and is a WA State Certified Elementary Teacher. Her passion lies in empowering children to overcome fear and insecurity, guiding them toward a path of enlightened empowerment and self-confidence.
Mrs. Karen Kane
Ms. Amie is a distinguished educator who holds degrees in early childhood education, elementary education, as well as special education. Her extensive qualifications are complemented by her certification as a parent educator. With over 30 years of experience, Ms. Amie has made significant contributions across a variety of learning environments, including public schools, private institutions, and home-school centers.
Her passion lies in supporting schools and parents through developmentally appropriate practices and education, with the ultimate goal of optimizing each child’s strengths and natural abilities. Ms. Amie possesses a remarkable gift for assessing each child’s learning style and artfully adapting her instruction to meet their unique needs. Drawing on current brain research related to learning and behavior, Ms. Amie understands that children can only truly learn when they are regulated through a sense of safety and nurture provided by their caregivers. Her classroom environment is designed to be interactive and hands-on, offering numerous opportunities for creative exploration of each child’s interests. Ms. Amie is an invaluable asset to the All-Star team, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise that profoundly benefits both students and educators. Her dedication to fostering an environment where children can thrive is evident in every aspect of her teaching philosophy and practice.
Mrs. Amie Santerelli
Mr. Jake embodies our philosophy of building strong connections with students, creating engaging learning experiences, and fostering critical thinking through leadership and accountability. Since 2014, he has dedicated himself to empowering students to reach their full potential, inspiring them to explore their interests and think critically about the world around them. By implementing innovative teaching methods and encouraging open dialogue, Mr. Jake creates an inclusive classroom atmosphere where every student feels valued and motivated to participate. His passion for teaching is evident in his ability to adapt lessons to meet the diverse needs of his students, ensuring that each individual can thrive academically and personally. Moreover, his commitment to nurturing a positive classroom environment, where respect and collaboration are prioritized, makes him a highly respected and valued member of our educational community.
Mr. Jake Newnom
Ms. Connie is a passionate and dedicated educator with over 30 years of experience in early elementary education. Throughout her career, she has specialized in individualized instruction, fostering student engagement, and building strong connections with families and the community. She has taught first and second grades in Auburn Public Schools and the Muckleshoot Tribal School, where she incorporated technology and innovative teaching strategies to support diverse learners. With a deep commitment to helping each child reach their full potential, Connie strives to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that encourages curiosity, growth, and a love for learning.
