About All-Star Academy
Every Child Is Uniquely Brilliant
We believe every child learns differently, thinks differently, and grows in their own way. Our role is not to make children fit into one system, but to understand how they learn best and build an education around them. We specialize in serving gifted learners, 2e (twice-exceptional) students, neurodivergent children (ADHD, ASD, sensory sensitivities), and those who thrive in smaller, individualized settings. We also welcome typical learners who benefit from a more engaging and supportive environment.
Our mission is to shape a new era of education where parents have influence and each student is challenged holistically fostering capable, confident, and creative individuals prepared for lifelong success.
Based in Preston, All-Star Academy is a member of the Washington Federation of Independent Schools, the National Independent Private School Association, and the University of Washington Work-Study Program. We provide holistic education, after-school enrichment, and seasonal camps for children ages 4–14.
How We Help Each Child Thrive
Every student begins with a deeper understanding of how they learn best. From there, we create an individualized learning plan that supports their academic needs, cognitive development, social-emotional growth, and personal interests.
Instruction is guided by individual cognitive and academic data, the Montessori Method, and project-based learning to advance each student toward their potential. Our mixed-age classrooms further support social skill development and peer learning.
To further support students with diverse learning needs, All-Star Academy offers the Arrowsmith Program, which is designed to strengthen the underlying cognitive capacities that support learning, attention, reasoning, memory, and academic growth. We also have a licensed teacher trained in Lindamood-Bell approaches, allowing us to provide structured support for students who need additional help with reading, comprehension, writing, and language development.
Our teachers are dedicated, skilled, and compassionate educators, serving as role models of acceptance, kindness, self-motivation, and citizenship.
All-Star Academy is fully accredited by the National Independent Private Schools Association (NIPSA), reflecting our commitment to excellence and ongoing educational growth.
Why All-Star Academy Was Created
Our Director, Brandy Simison, grew up in a small town and experienced the benefits of small classrooms and tight-knit communities. As a Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner, she observed that traditional classrooms often had 25+ students per teacher, leaving learners with emotional, behavioral, or exceptional needs underserved. Parents frequently had to advocate for support or navigate educational approaches misaligned with their family values.
All-Star Academy was founded to break this mold providing personalized, holistic education with an intimate 1:8 teacher-to-student ratio. Our customized learning plans, hands-on experiences, and nature-based learning offer a transformative alternative to conventional schooling.
Since opening in 2018, we have become one of the most sought-after private schools in the region, with a 100% satisfaction rate consistently reported by families each semester.
At All-Star Academy, every child is seen, heard, and empowered to thrive. Contact us today to learn how we can support your child’s success.
Meet the Heart Behind All-Star Academy!
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
Ms. Julie is a devoted mother of two adult daughters and an experienced educator with 22 years in teaching. She began her career as a Waldorf teacher, working and living in 6 different states (including Alaska and Hawaii). She has spent the last five years teaching mixed-age groups of neurodivergent students at Eaton-Arrowsmith Academy, tailoring her approach to meet the diverse learning needs of students with ADHD, ASD, OCD, and more. Julie has developed a keen interest in learning support for neurodivergent thinkers by exploring the complexities of retained reflexes, brain development, and neuroplasticity. Her insights into these underlying issues enhance her ability to create effective learning strategies that cater to diverse needs. Holding a master's degree in education, she has become a passionate advocate for the transformative power of farm schools which not only equip students with practical, real-world skills but also foster a deep connection to each other, nature, and compassion for those around us. Ms. Julie believes farm schools are essential in educating the children of tomorrow, helping them develop the holistic understanding needed to navigate future challenges.
Ms. Julie Driscall
Mr. Nicholas is an educator, writer, and creative professional with a diverse background in English Language Arts, special education, and storytelling. He earned his associate degree in Technical Communications from Fox Valley Technical College, his bachelor’s degree in English with an emphasis in creative writing from the University of Colorado Denver, graduating Magna Cum Laude, and his Washington State teacher certification from Seattle Pacific University. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Special Education at Grand Canyon University, with an expected graduation date of March 2027. Mr. Nicholas brings a unique, non-traditional perspective to the classroom, shaped by his experiences in education, retail, construction, landscaping, call center work, and creative entrepreneurship. He has co-authored a trilogy of books with his sister and founded Brick & Mortar Entertainment LLC to support writing, contemporary art, and stop-motion animation projects. As an educator, Mr. Nicholas is passionate about building an inclusive classroom community where students from all backgrounds feel supported, challenged, and encouraged. His goal is to use his broad life experiences, creativity, and enthusiasm for learning to help students grow academically, reach their full potential, and become confident, capable, and successful members of society.
