STARS Charter

140 Southern Dunes Drive

School District

Sandhills Theatre Arts Renaiss
Grade

K-8, 10-12
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:13
Type

charter

School Map for Sandhills Theatre Arts Renaiss School District

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by other on January 08, 2025

STARS Charter lost its beautiful soul when it significantly increased (by 3-4x) its student body (about 4 years ago). Some administrators and teachers are fantastic, but others are inexperienced and petty. These days, the school seems single focused on "making the grade" and "teaching to the test" rather than focusing on overall student wellbeing. Although there is little overt/actionable bullying, students who do not "fit in" in the traditional sense are often alienated by their peer group. The school could benefit from implementing a social emotional program for its staff and students.
Submitted by parent on January 25, 2022

I can not say enough wonderful things about our school. From amazing teachers who care deeply about each of their kiddos, to their ability to teach to learn NOT teach to test. To the admin who walk the halls and invest personally in the lives of the students. An active PTO and parents who are invested in the daily lives of their kids and others. Our drama department and dance program is amazing and we are voting blessed to have these amazing programs where children shine and grow.
Submitted by parent on January 25, 2022

Our family has had an incredible experience at STARS. With three children in elementary, middle, and high school, we couldn't be more impressed with the administration and the efficiency in which the school is run, the caliber of the teachers and their passion, and the creativity that our children are afforded by attending this school. The electives are incredible and unlike what they could have in a public school setting - for example, my sixth-grader currently has Coding, Chorus, Modern Dance, and Playwriting as her electives. My elementary-school child loves having two specials per day, and my high school student has really great teachers that are in tune to each individual learner. The schedule is fantastic - the four-day week gives us flexibility as a family, and every Friday is enrichment or remediation for kids that need it. The ability for these students to come to school on Fridays for small group and individual instruction to help fill the learning gaps - or receive enrichment - is such a gift, and has kept one of my kids from slipping through the cracks. The performances that the school is able to put on each year are impressive as well - we truly love this school and feel that it's a hidden gem in Moore County. We couldn't be happier!
Submitted by parent on January 25, 2022

When our daughter announced that she would like to start "real school" for 2nd Grade (as opposed to Homeschooling), we dove in to researching the perfect school for the job. STARS Charter was our number one choice. We are so glad that she is able to attend such a wonderful school for her first venture in to public school! Every single teacher, staff member and administrator cares deeply for these kids. Every issue or question I have had is met with compassion and problem solving, immediately. Our daughter is growing academically AND socially & emotionally!
Submitted by other on January 25, 2022

I have two children who attend STARS Charter (9th & 12th grades). This is our second year with the school and my children absolutely love it. The teachers, administrators and leaders have a tremendous heart for the children. The school is centered around arts and theater, but also offers a number of opportunities to high school children like concurrent college attendance starting in the 11th grade through the Sandhills Promise. The school pays for the college classes and books and provides transportation to and from Sandhills Community College. For us, this school is an answer to our prayers. Security is top notch, drop off and pick up procedures are really well established and more importantly, the children thrive. There are many opportunities for children who thrive in creative settings, from musical theater, to tech. theater, acting, dancing, etc. Communication with the parents concerning important school decision making needs improvement and if we don't rally around the school to support it during its time of need, I'm afraid it won't be available to arts-focused and college-bound students who find this school to be the best around. We are a military family and have much experience with charter and private schools around the world - this is most definitely a gem and one of a kind in the area. If your child excels in a small school setting and in a place where they will be a priority, this is most definitely a school to consider.
Submitted by parent on January 20, 2022

They are closing the High School at the end of this year and transitioning it to virtual till 2025. Then the High School will be no more. They didn’t mention this till less than a month ago and never mentioned any issues when we toured the school almost 2 years ago. They will tell you they couldn’t compete with the other High Schools, and they are correct. Yet, that’s why we wanted our child to attend it.
Submitted by other on May 01, 2021

After sending our child to the local public school for years, we decided to move to STARS. Students have the freedom to choose the 'extra' classes that interest them. There is no bullying, no classroom discipline issues, and the students are very accepting and friendly. Although STARS uses the same NCDPI state standards as the traditional public schools, the approach and selection of learning material is much more effective in our experience. I would even venture to say that there is no comparison. Also, no Chromebooks! They use papers and actual books, which is a huge plus and probably contributes to the much-improved learning experience. The school has a community feel. We are very happy we made the move and highly recommend STARS!
Submitted by parent on October 08, 2015

This a review from a parent of a child who graduated in 2011... so I can't speak for it now, but I know it had an awesome administration and staff then, so I can only guess it's continued in the same path. Loved my child's principal and teachers. The focus on the arts was second to none. I hope it's as good as it used to be. Regular public schools have a lot to be desired.
Submitted by other on August 02, 2015

I'm a graduate of STARS Charter. When I first arrived at STARS I was very nervous because I had heard it had a bad reputation. Well, let me tell you! This is the perfect school for kids who love the Arts. I absolutely loved going there, and wish I still could. All in all, it's the best school I've ever been to. Which is saying a lot!
Submitted by parent on September 26, 2014

STARS believes all students learn in different ways, and as such, all students should be presented with as many different avenues for learning as possible. The school adheres to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, but infuses this curriculum with arts integration in the classroom. STARS is a member of the A+ Network. The A+ philosophy is rooted in Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences - a theory with much support in the scientific and educational communities, developed through research into styles of learning and brain function that proves there are many different ways of learning, and many different ways of demonstrating what one has learned. The STARS staff trains with A+ Fellows throughout the year.
Submitted by parent on September 02, 2014

I have a Kindergarten & 4th grader. We just started this year & the teachers & staff are very carrying. They focus on the children which is very important to me.
Submitted by parent on June 21, 2014

I have a 1st and 5th grader at STARS. My kids have only been at STARS for 1 year and we love it. It is a great school. My kids grades in math, reading and science have excelled and they both love the theater, dance, music and ballet. The school puts on musical's and play's several times a year for each grade level which has really helps a kids social development. The principal, teachers and staff are very friendly and professional. I like that they have buses that will pick up the kids that live in Aberdeen, Pinehurst, Southern Pines. It is a great alternative for military family's that live in Hoke County also who do not want to sent their kids to Hoke County Schools. I have heard that the school is about to expand and build a new High School which would make it a K-12 school. Overall, we love STARS and look forward to many more years there.
Submitted by parent on June 21, 2014

I have a 1st and 5th grader at STARS. My kids have only been at STARS for 1 year and we love it. It is a great school. My kids grades in math, reading and science have excelled and they both love the theater, dance, music and ballet. The school puts on musical's and play's several times a year for each grade level which has really helps a kids social development. The principal, teachers and staff are very friendly and professional. I like that they have buses that will pick up the kids that live in Aberdeen, Pinehurst, Southern Pines. It is a great alternative for military family's that live in Hoke County also who do not want to sent their kids to Hoke County Schools. I have heard that the school is about to expand and build a new High School which would make it a K-12 school. Overall, we love STARS and look forward to many more years there.
Submitted by parent on March 10, 2014

I moved my child from the Academy of Moore County to this school and all I can say is that I should have come here first. The principal at Stars is a licensed and educated principal. Unlike the Academy whose principal has neither a degree or license in Principal Leadership. The principal treats parents and children with respect. I heard a lot of screaming from the principal at the other school and I was not going to tolerate it again. The teachers and staff really care about the education and growth of the children. The school excels in math and science instruction and the children are always engaged. There is a big population of military children at this school and the school really tries to go the extra mile for them. There is also a very strong military support group at this school. If you want a well round, challenging and nurturing education for your child, then this is the place for you!
Submitted by parent on March 07, 2014

STARS is an excellent school of choice for those looking for a refreshing new option in education. The school has made numerous improvements in the past 3-4 years with a new administration and many new faculty. STARS is a very happy school because the students and faculty love being there. My children have been learning at STARS for 2 years now and would not want to be anywhere else. They are learning more at STARS than at their previous schools and enjoy the way the school uses the arts to teach them about anything from Math and Science to English and History. My kids have developed not only academic skills but also strong character through self expression because of the environment here. I cannot say enough nice things about STARS and the direction the leadership at the school is headed.