2026 Spring Newsletter

At Crowley's Ridge Academy, we have always believed that God can do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine.

What began as a vision to build leaders and followers has become a thriving community of students, families, teachers, alumni, and friends who believe deeply in the power of Christian education. Every classroom, every chapel service, every prayer spoken over a child is a reminder that this school is more than a building. It is a mission. And now, that mission is growing.

We are prayerfully stepping forward in faith to expand our campus with the hope of building a dedicated PreK–3rd grade wing, as funds allow. This expansion is not about bricks and mortar alone. It is about making room—for more children, more families, and more life-changing moments rooted in the firmest of foundations.

A dedicated elementary wing would:

• Create learning spaces designed specifically for our youngest students.
• Allow us to welcome more families seeking Christ-centered education in our community.
• Strengthen the long-term stability and sustainability of the Academy by increasing enrollment capacity.
• Provide room for specialized intervention support and enrichment opportunities.

Most importantly, it would allow us to say “yes” to families who are searching for a school where Biblical truth and academic excellence walk hand in hand.

This growth benefits everyone. For current families, it means strengthened programs, expanded opportunities, and a thriving school community for years to come. For alumni families, it means the legacy you helped build continues, stronger and more impactful than ever. For friends and supporters of Christian education, it means investing in the next generation of Christ-centered leaders who will carry faith into their homes, churches, businesses, and communities.

When we expand our building, we expand our reach. When we create space, we create opportunity. When we invest in children, we help shape eternity.

We are asking you to prayerfully consider making a pledge of support toward this expansion. A pledge allows us to move forward in wisdom and confidence, knowing we have the backing of a community that believes in what God is doing here at CRA.

We also want to recognize those who have already stepped forward in faith. Ted and Frances York, Dan & Joneen Copeland, Jerry and Frankie Jetton, Keith & Joni Bryson,  Terry & Judy Wilkins were among the first to commit to this vision, helping lay the financial foundation for what we believe will be a transformative season for CRA. Their leadership and generosity inspire us, and we are deeply grateful.

But this mission is not about a few. It is about all of us.

If we pull together— parents, alumni families, grandparents, churches, local businesses, and friends of the Academy—we can build a space that will serve generations to come. A place where children learn more about the greatest story ever told and how to be more like Jesus every day. Where parents find partnership, and Christ remains at the center.

This is our moment to build, not just for today, but for the future.

We are humbly asking you to join us in this good work.

in and out of the classroom…

As we wrap up another wonderful school year at CRA, we are grateful for the many opportunities our students have had to learn, grow, serve, and make memories together throughout the spring semester. From hands-on classroom activities to special events and celebrations, our campus has been full of excitement and meaningful moments!

This spring, students across all grade levels stayed busy with engaging classroom projects, creative activities, science experiments, reading celebrations, and collaborative learning experiences. Teachers worked hard to create lessons that not only challenged students academically, but also encouraged curiosity, creativity, and Christ-centered character.

One of the greatest blessings of the semester has been watching our students continue to grow not only in knowledge, but also in faith and service. Daily chapel, Bible classes, prayer, and meaningful relationships remain at the center of all we do at CRA. We are thankful for teachers and staff who pour into students each day and for families who partner with us in our mission to build leaders and build followers of Christ.

7th Grade Fungus Exploration

Seniors vs. Faculty Basketball Game

Track & Field Day

Senior Play: Don’t Rock the Boat

CRA’s Amazing 2025-26 Chorus

Third Grade Bible Class

Book Buddies

Kindergarten Chapel

First Grade Animal Habitat Projects

Weather Fun with Ryan Vaughan

Mock Trial in Business Law Class

Falcon Baseball

Campus buzz

  • Mack Shack Update

    The Mack Shack Pavilion is progressing by the day! We’re thrilled to see it all coming together and expect the exterior to be finished in just a few weeks.

    We extend our sincerest gratitude to everyone who played an essential role in bringing this vision to life!

  • Make-A-Wish

    Thanks to the generosity and enthusiastic participation of our CRA community, we were thrilled to donate $_______ to Make-A-Wish Foundation! These funds were raised through enjoyable school events such as Tasty Tuesdays, wear-a-hat days, and movie nights.

    We are so thankful for our students, parents, teachers, and supporters who helped make these events a success while supporting such a meaningful cause. CRA is blessed with a community that truly enjoys serving others and making a difference!

  • Spring Auction

    We are incredibly blessed to be part of such a generous and supportive school community! Thanks to the kindness and participation of so many families, alumni, friends, and supporters, this year’s auction raised an amazing $150,000—enough to fully fund our new school bus!

    We are deeply grateful to everyone who donated items, volunteered their time, attended the event, and gave so generously to help make this goal a reality. The success of the auction is a wonderful reminder of what can happen when our community comes together in support of our students and school. Thank you for your continued encouragement, generosity, and partnership. We truly could not do it without you!

  • Best of NEA

    We are excited to share that Crowley's Ridge Academy was awarded Gold for “Best Private School” in the Best of NEA contest! In addition, PALS Preschool earned Silver in both “Best Preschool” and “Best Childcare.” These honors are a reflection of the incredible dedication, care, and hard work of our amazing faculty and staff who pour into our students every day. We are so thankful for our wonderful team and for the support of our CRA and PALS families who make our school community so special!

congrats, Grads!

  • Class of 2026

  • 6th Grade Grads

  • Kindergarten Grads

  • PALS Pre-K Grads

Rhys Becerra

2026 Valedictorian

Kenslee Sheppard

2026 Valedictorian

Sarah Kate Gillette

2026 Salutatorian

2026 Academy Awards

Congratulations to CRA’s outstanding senior award winners!

Mr. CRA: Rhys Becerra

Miss CRA: Kenslee Sheppard

Citizenship: Chloe Giddings

Sportsmanship: Keaton Law

School Spirit: Zebedee Cone & Garnett Gamble

Second Miler: Kaden Richardson

Margaret Howe: Elisabeth Evans

FBLA-mazing

  • FBLA State Competition

    1st Place - Kenslee Sheppard, Rachel Gibson, Garnett Gamble | Management Information Systems

  • FBLA District Competition

    Congratulations to our Crowley’s Ridge Academy FBLA students on an outstanding showing at the District Competition!

    Your hard work, preparation, and professionalism paid off, and we are proud of how you represented CRA!

    Results:

    • 5th Place – Teddy Joe Spillman | Human Resources

    • 2nd Place – Halle Jordan | Advanced Accounting

    • 1st Place – Luke Austin, Sutton Campbell & Trey Fitts | Business Management

    • 1st Place – Daniel Crowley | Data Science & AI

    • 1st Place – Ellie Walker | Job Interview

service with a smile

2026 MACK DAY

This special day gives our 7th–12th grade students the opportunity to step outside the classroom and live out what it means to serve others. From delivering cookies and sharing gratitude with our generous supporters, first responders, and city leaders, to cleaning up along 8 Mile Trail and tackling projects around campus—our students showed up with servant hearts. “Carpé Diem,” as Mr. Mack Ramsey would say!

Welcome to the Family

  • Blake Phillips

    CRA Board of Directors

    Blake is a life-long resident of Paragould. He is married to Kassie and they have two daughters, Khloe and Karsyn. He and his family are members of Union Central Church of Christ.

    Blake is employed at Unico Bank in Paragould, where is he is a lender and branch manager. Blake is also an adjunct instructor at Crowley’s Ridge College. He has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing Management from Arkansas State University and an MBA from Wiliam Woods University. Blake is also a graduate of the Barret Graduate School of Banking in Memphis, Tennessee.

  • Dallas Gillmore

    CRA Board of Directors

    Dallas was born and raised in Paragould and attends the Commissary Church of Christ.

    He graduated from Greene County Tech in 2005. After high school, he went to ASU and received a degree in Agriculture Business. In 2010, he married his wife, Megan, who also grew up in Paragould. They have three daughters: Neeley, Sawyer, and Ava, all of whom go to school at CRA.

    Dallas works for the family-owned construction company. In his free time, he enjoys being outdoors with his family, taking care of their horses, watching his girls compete in barrel races, hunting, and spending time at the lake.

  • Coach Griffin Hogue

    Head Boys’ Basketball Coach

    “My name is Griffin Hogue, and I am so excited to join the CRA family as the new head boys’ basketball coach! I was a coach at Ridgefield Christian for one year and at Nettleton for the past three years. I have my bachelor's degree in PE and Health from Crowley's Ridge College. I am a member of Valley View Church of Christ and a high school graduate of CRA. I enjoy being around my family and friends, watching basketball, and working out. I can't wait to be a Falcon again, and I am thrilled to meet everyone!”

  • Mrs. Ashlyn Cole

    Secondary English Teacher

    “My name is Ashlyn Cole, and I am so excited to be joining the CRA staff as the new secondary English teacher. I graduated with my bachelor’s in Secondary English Education in 2024 from Williams Baptist University. I am a lifelong resident of Paragould and a member of the church of Christ. I married my husband and best friend, Alex, in July of 2025, and together we have three cats. In addition to my passion for literature and writing, I also love spending time outdoors (whether that be fishing or hiking), in flea markets, and with my family and friends.

    I can’t wait to be back in a Christian school environment where everyone supports and prays for one another. I look forward to contributing to that positive culture as a CRA Falcon!”

  • Mrs. Emma Becerra

    Third Grade Teacher

    "My name is Emma Becerra, and I am honored to be joining CRA as the new 3rd-grade teacher! I graduated this past December with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-6) from Crowley’s Ridge College. Having spent my entire life in Paragould, I am proud to be a PSD alumna. Last November, I married my husband, Jett (CRA Class of 2021), and we have three dogs: Lily, Frances, and Miller. I have been a member of Hillcrest Church of Christ for several years. In my free time, I enjoy thrifting, exploring the outdoors, and reading. I am so excited to start this new school year and can’t wait to contribute to CRA!"

  • Mr. Jodan Blake

    Art Teacher

    “Hello! My name is Jordan Blake, and I’m so excited to be joining CRA as the new art teacher!

    I attended Arkansas State University, where I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education, along with a Master’s in Special Education. During my undergraduate studies, I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain.

    My wife, Anna, and I have been married for almost 11 years, and we have two boys—Forrest (6) and Jasper (2)—who keep us busy and entertained! We’re active members of Pine Knot Church of Christ, where I also teach classes.

    In my free time, you’ll usually find me out in the garden (especially trying to grow pumpkins) and spending time at the lake with my family.

    I can’t wait to begin my journey as a falcon!”

  • Lindsey Quearry

    Assistant Girls Athletics, Algebra 1, Computer Applications

    "I am excited to rejoin the CRA family in a new role! I attended PALs during the 1997–98 school year and remained a Falcon until I graduated from CRA in 2012. I loved having my mom, Mrs. Killough, as a teacher and being on campus with her throughout those years, and I’m grateful to now share that same experience with my own children.

    I graduated from Harding University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies and later completed the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Arkansas State University. I worked as a pediatric PTA for six years before transitioning into higher education, where I have served the past few years as both Registrar and Concurrent Enrollment Coordinator at Crowley’s Ridge College.

    I also had the privilege of playing volleyball and basketball throughout my six years at CRA and am grateful for the opportunity to be involved again alongside Coach Royce and Coach Amy."

  • Kristen Smotherman

    PALS Teacher

    “Hello friends! My name is Kristen Smotherman. Originally from Russellville, Arkansas (Go Hogs!), I am thrilled to join the Paragould community, Crowley’s Ridge Academy, and PALS!

    My educational journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Freed-Hardeman University, followed by a Master’s degree in Social Work from Union University. I spent three years serving as a residential counselor at a treatment facility before discovering my true passion for early childhood education.

    In January 2013, I began teaching at Love and Learn Preschool at the Savannah church of Christ in Savannah, TN, where I happily spent 12 years guiding and nurturing young minds as the PreK 5 teacher. I love watching children learn and grow, and I cannot wait to work alongside the wonderful teachers at PALS while building lasting new friendships.

    On a personal note, my sweet husband, Joseph, and I will celebrate 11 years of marriage this June. We are blessed with two wonderful children, Aiden (8) and Libby (6), who are both excited to start school at CRA this fall. Our family is so grateful to begin this new chapter, and I look forward to a fantastic school year ahead!”

Quiz Bowl Goes to state!

The CRA Quiz Bowl team achieved an impressive third place at the State Tournament after claiming second place at Regionals! We are immensely proud of their dedication and hard work. A special recognition goes to Gracie Stallings, who earned the MVP title at Regionals for her exceptional performance, averaging eight toss-ups per game! Congratulations to Gracie, Mrs. Lewallen, and the entire team for these remarkable accomplishments!

FINAL FOUR!!!!

The Boys’ Varsity Basketball Team had another incredible season! They went 10-2 in conference wins and 22-9 overall. They finished 2nd in our Conference, earned 2nd place in the Regional Tournament, and advanced to the State Tournament, where they made it to the FINAL FOUR for the second year in a row! Congratulations to the team and coaches on a fantastic season!

basketball postseason honors

Track & Field

State champ!

Zander Alls (Junior) is the 1A State Champion in the pole vault category! Congratulations, Zander!!!


Robotics Club Shines

We're so proud of our LEGO League Robotics Club! In just their second year, these students qualified for State, worked hard, and learned a lot. They tried new things, solved problems, and supported each other, gaining confidence with every challenge. It was thrilling to watch their growth! This program is a fantastic opportunity for kids to think critically, work as a team, and have fun being creative.

We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsor, Mr. Jackson Law, and our amazing volunteer parents, Sarah and Chris Crowley. Their dedication has made a big difference, and the kids have thrived under their guidance.

A special thanks to Sarah Crowley, a standout volunteer at CRA. Beyond Robotics, she’s been invaluable in the library and with the yearbook. We appreciate her dedication to our school.

We’re thankful for this team, this program, and everyone who made this season meaningful.

Mrs. Angel Sanders steps into new role

We are delighted to share the news that Angel Sanders has been promoted to the dual role of K-3 Assistant Principal and PALS Preschool Director. Angel has left an indelible mark as a classroom teacher, and we are eager to see the fresh perspectives and energy she will bring to her new position.

Angel will have offices and responsibilities in both buildings, allowing her to stay closely connected with the K-3 and preschool students and faculty. Her profound understanding of early childhood education and her unwavering dedication to nurturing young learners make her the ideal person for these roles. Mrs. Angel’s proven track record and passion for education reassure us that she will lead our preschool and lower elementary to new heights, creating a thriving environment for our youngest students!

The copeland challenge

We are excited to share a special opportunity to support the Vision 75 campaign at Crowley’s Ridge Academy. Dan and Joneen Copeland have generously committed to match all gifts—up to a total of $100,000—when you make a donation in honor of a faculty member, staff member, or volunteer who has served CRA for five or more years and helped provide a Christ-centered education.

All donations made through The Copeland Challenge will go directly toward Vision 75, helping invest in the future of Crowley’s Ridge Academy while honoring those who have faithfully served our school community.

CRA will also create a permanent plaque recognizing every individual in whose honor donations were made, celebrating their lasting impact on generations of students.

Give today to double your impact and honor those who have helped shape CRA through the years. If you have any questions about The Copeland Challenge or Vision 75, please contact Pam Freer for more information.

Give

UPCOMING EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

Alumni Reunion

SATURDAY, JUNE 27
4:30-6:30 PM

We are inviting all former students, faculty, staff, and administrators who were part of CRA between 1954 and 1976 to this year's Alumni Reunion! This year, we are especially excited to honor the Classes of 1956, 1966, and 1976 as they celebrate their 70th, 60th, and 50th anniversaries. We hope you will join us for an evening of reminiscing, reconnecting with old friends, sharing cherished memories from your time at CRA, and creating new ones together.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 27th, starting at 4:30 p.m. in the CRA Cafeteria.

The cost per attendee is $15, which includes a meal.

Kindly RSVP by June 15th to confirm your attendance at the event. https://forms.gle/Y9PR4tCfpbFS2GP18.

falcon fest

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
3:00 AM | 1 PM

This exciting fundraiser provides support to our school's Booster Club, which plays a crucial role in enhancing Falcon Athletics! We invite you to spend a day on the green alongside fellow CRA supporters!