We Are Loyal
to the Future!
Our Mission
We are loyal to partnering with families in raising children who will thrive spiritually and academically. Proverbs 22:6 KJV
At Citygate Christian Academy children learn in an environment that is safe, nurturing, and stimulating. Going beyond Ohio’s Early Learning Content Standards, Biblical truths are integrated in everyday lessons, relationships, and activities to help develop each child (cognitive, social, physical, emotional, creative and spiritual)
Investing in your Children.
Enrolling in Citygate Junior Academy is an investment in preparing your children to thrive academically and spiritually. Our comprehensive, Christ-centered curriculum allows your kids to expand their knowledge through creative arts activities and biblically enriched programs, giving them the foundation they need to excel in kindergarten and beyond. By joining Citygate Junior Academyl, you will give your children the opportunity to grow both intellectually and spiritually, providing a unique and enriching learning environment that will prepare them for success in the future.
Current Programs:
First Steps (12-24 months, Toddlers, Preschool/Pre-K)
Empowering Families
At Citygate Junior Academy, we offer a safe, nurturing and exciting environment for children to thrive. Our small classroom sizes provide personalized attention and our early Christian childhood development curriculum promotes holistic growth – cognitively, socially, physically, emotionally, creatively and spiritually. We go beyond the Ohio Early Learning Content Standards and encourage spiritual growth through our Biblically enriched programs.
Citygate Junior Academy is a place where kids ages 2.5-5 can join Kindergarten readiness programs. we offer creative arts activities to inspire creativity and passion in our students while helping them explore their individual talents. Our staff is trained to offer the best experience possible while providing parents with peace of mind knowing their child is in a safe, secure environment.
About Our Founder
Kim Petree
Pastor Kim Petree is a passionate advocate for Christian education and the Co-founder of Citygate Junior Academy. As a mom, educator, and pastor, she saw the need for affordable Christ-centered programs that truly empowered families and children to thrive. Partnering with our moms and educators – Citygate Junior Academy was born!
Kim has a deep love for God and alongside her husband Pastor Eric Petree, leads Citygate Church – a multi-ethnic, multi-generational church committed to rescuing the lost, building the found, and equipping believers. With a heart for holistic education, Kim helps families make healthy life choices and encourages parents to raise Godly children with hope and purpose in today’s culture.
When she’s not leading Citygate, you can find Kim spending time outside with her family or enjoying Sunday pizza night at home with her two children Saige and Rush.
About Our Director
Jenn Mason
Meet Jennifer Mason, a passionate educator with over 22 years of experience in the field of early childhood education. Throughout her career, Jennifer has worked in a variety of settings, from public schools to educational childcare programs, and has held positions ranging from teacher to director.
Jennifer’s expertise is working with children from 6 weeks to 5th grade. She studied Early Childhood Education at the University of Cincinnati and has since become a lead teacher in a Kindergarten Enrichment program for a public school, where she focuses on excelling and enriching students academically. She also has experience assisting children with learning hurdles to help them reach their academic potential.
Outside of her professional life, Jennifer is a devoted wife to her husband Blake, and mother to two young boys – Remington who is 3 years old and Memphis who is 10. When not serving at Citygate, Jennifer and her family enjoy going on adventures and making lasting memories together. Jennifer brings her passion for education and her love of children to the Preschool and is excited to inspire and empower young learners.
Meet our Staff!
Angela Barker
Meet Angela Barker, known as Ms. Angel to her students. Angela started on her journey in childcare immediately after high school and has been committed to the education and nurturing of young minds since 2002. With a deep-seated belief in the importance of fostering a love for learning early on, Angela has dedicated her life to setting children on a path of success.
Married for 16 years, she and her husband are proud parents to two wonderful children, Briahna and Elijah, whose athletic endeavors in basketball and soccer bring the family much joy. Together, they enjoy outings to Kings Island, movie nights, and engaging in competitive board games. Angela also finds solace in her hobbies which include baking, shopping, and most importantly, spending quality time with her family.
In October 2020, Angela and her family found a spiritual home at Citygate Church, where their faith has flourished. Embracing the spirit of service, Angela and her daughter volunteer in the Two’s class every other Sunday, contributing to the church community and enriching the lives of children. For Angela, helping children to grow and learn is not just a job, but a calling that fills her life with purpose and joy.
Holly Jackson
Introducing Holly Jackson, affectionately known by her young learners as Ms. Holly. Her journey into the world of childcare began in her teenage years with a simple babysitting job that sparked a lifelong passion for working with children. With years of experience under her belt, both in professional childcare settings and as a cherished nanny for three families, Holly has dedicated her career to nurturing young minds and hearts.
Beyond her professional life, Holly is deeply rooted in her faith and finds joy in teaching children about Jesus, witnessing their growth in all aspects of life. Holly’s personal world is filled with love from her family, including her two adult children, Denise and the late Christopher, who was called to heaven in 2019. Denise and Holly share a special bond, serving together on the Citygate Crew at Forest Park, uniting their faith and family values in service.
Life outside of her commitments sees Holly embracing simple pleasures — playing with her four “furry” children, exploring new culinary delights, enjoying adventures, and indulging in her ultimate passion, shopping. Holly Jackson’s life is a beautiful blend of faith, family, and the joy of guiding the next generation.
