Rising Star Montessori Academy Celebrates 25 Years and Launches Alumni-Inspired Scholarship

“A Walk Down Memory Lane” honors founders, reunites generations of families and establishes a $4,000 scholarship fund.

FAYETTEVILLE, GA — November 4, 2026 — Rising Star Montessori Academy (RSMA) celebrated its 25th anniversary on October 24 with “A Walk Down Memory Lane,” an evening bringing together alumni, current families, educators, community leaders and local businesses to recognize the school’s legacy and look toward its future.

Founded in 2001 by Nancy “Ms. Nancy” Dutton and Deborah “Ms. Debi” Montgomery, the academy has spent a quarter-century encouraging independence, a love of learning and enduring connections among students and families.

“What really touched my heart was hearing them repeat the little sayings I’ve used for so many years,” Montgomery said of returning alumni. “To know that those words stayed with them, even after all this time, reminded me that sometimes the smallest things we say or do can leave the biggest impressions.”

Community Recognition

Fayetteville Mayor Edward J. Johnson Jr. attended and proclaimed October 24, 2026, Rising Star Montessori Academy Day. RSMA also received recognition at the state level, presented during the event by former Montessori Parent Organization (MPO) President Kathryn “Granny K” Weaver. The recognitions honored the school’s contribution to education and the Fayetteville community.

Dutton and Montgomery were celebrated for their leadership and dedication. Reflecting on the evening, Montgomery shared, “Another moment I will treasure forever was walking down memory lane with Ms. Nancy. We spent so many years building something we believed in, learning together, laughing together, facing challenges, and meeting so many wonderful people along the way.”

The Ms. Debi Promise Scholarship

The celebration also inspired a new scholarship. Several alumni contributed approximately $2,000 and asked Montgomery to do something special for the school. She committed to matching their gifts, establishing The Ms. Debi Promise Scholarship with an initial fund of approximately $4,000.

Named in honor of Aidan, Sam and Zac, the original creators of “Ms. Debi’s Promise,” the initiative reflects Montgomery’s desire to help students beyond their years at Rising Star. Her vision is to set aside awards for qualifying longtime students to access at age 18 for college, trade school or another educational path. Eligibility and award details are still being developed, and Montgomery has pledged to match additional donations.

“My hope is that, even after they leave Rising Star, I can help them one more time as they take their first steps into adulthood,” Montgomery said.

A Community-Led Celebration

The current MPO organized the milestone event, with families volunteering their time and talents and local businesses providing support. The evening featured alumni reflections, a commemorative video, dinner, an art market and a silent auction—reflecting the bonds that have connected the RSMA community across generations.

“That night, I got my answer. They remembered. They carried those lessons with them. And we really did make a difference,” Montgomery said.

About Rising Star Montessori Academy

Established in 2001 in Fayetteville, Georgia, Rising Star Montessori Academy provides Montessori education that fosters independence, academic growth, character development and a lifelong love of learning.