Dr. Jackie “Jack” Farmer

Superintendent

US Army Veteran

Dr. Jackie D. Farmer is a distinguished professional with a robust background in military leadership, pastoral ministry, and Christian education. He assumed his first leadership position at 19-years old and since then he has a proven track record of leadership integrity, care of people, and discovering innovative methods and the latest research-based best practices to produce the best possible outcomes in people, organizations, and situations.

 

During his tenor at BBA the face of education has gone through dynamic changes and Dr. Farmer has been able to successfully guide the Academy though each change. The school has experienced 185% growth in enrollment and a 353% increase in budgetary responsibilities. The size of the faculty has increased 150%. Under his leadership, BBA achieved accreditation in 2021.

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As a United States Army Air Traffic Control Radar Communications Section Chief and prior to transitioning to an Infantry Non-Commissioned Officer, Corporal Farmer demonstrated exemplary leadership, risk analysis, and crisis management skills, managing $25 million parts and supplies inventory, $3-million in unit and soldier equipment and maintaining high safety standards for his electronics section personnel.

As an Infantry leader he was known for his ability to lead, analyize situations, and solve problems which earned him the honor to serve as the company Master Gunner, provided him the opportunity to serve on MG Casey's Battle Staff anlayzing operational data during two operations in the Baltic regions of Europe, and the opportunity to routinely serve in leadership positions above his rank and pay grade.

His military career was marked by graduating with honors from every military course he attended and being recognized as the Soldier of the Year for the 936th Air Battalion (1991), the Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for the 2nd Battalion, 7th Calvary Regiment and the Third Brigade "Greywolves", 1st Calvary Division (1994). He was also instrumental in working with the Command Sergeant Major and Primary Instructors in designing the selection test for the 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment's Pre-Ranger training program before being selected to serve as the Brigade S-3 Training NCO. While serving at brigade, Dr. Farmer wrote the 2nd Brigade policy book on training selection, and assisted in the writing of the 1st Armored Division policy book on training selection.

During his time in Europe, through a series of events during his first deployment to the Balkan regions, Dr. Farmer committed to faithfully returning to the faith of his childhood. He joined his family in attending Grace Baptist Church of Baumholder, Germany where he served in numerous roles beginning with janitor and eventually serving as the Assistant Pastor. Shortly after committing to serve God full-time outside of the United States Army, when the time became right, Dr. Farmer was injured in a Bradley accident in which he was the only person injured and the vehicle suffered only minor damage. However, due to his actions to ensure the safety of his men and vehicle, he suffered a career ending back, neck, and head injury that resulted in being medically discharged from service. As God had planned, it was during the medical process of determining his future, he was introduced to the former pastor of Berean Baptist Church and invited to serve in Fayetteville, NC.

Since arriving at Berean, Dr. Farmer has served as an Assistant Pastor of Singles' Ministry, an interim Youth Pastor, and faithfully executed numerous duties inside the Academy. He served for a short time as a Youth Pastor at Union Grove Baptist in Sampson County while maintaining his position in the classroom.

However, in 2013, Dr. Farmer transitioned full-time into the field of education administration first as the High School Principal, and then as the Head of School/Superintendent at Berean Baptist Academy in 2014. Prior to this position he taught Bible, various History subjects at the regular level, Biology, Speech, Physical Education, and Computer Technology. Since then he has added, AP US History, AP World History, AP European History, English Literature Themes, AP English Language, Life Science, Organizational Behavior, Fundamentals of Leadership, and Photography to his teaching resume. He has also coached Varsity Baseball, Varsity Cross Country, and Weightlifting.

During his tenor at BBA the face of education has gone through dynamic changes and Dr. Farmer has been able to successfully guide the Academy though each change. The school has experienced 185% growth in enrollment and a 353% increase in budgetary responsibilities. The size of the faculty has increased 150%. Under his leadership, BBA achieved accreditation in 2021.

An active participant in educational accreditation teams for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), Dr. Farmer is dedicated to advancing educational excellence and integrity. He has served on several teams and acted as the chair for three of those teams. Dr. Farmer is a contributing blogger for ACSI. Dr. Farmer, a graduate of the ACSI Leadership University program, serves as mentor to new or future superintendents and heads of schools participating in the program. Dr. Farmer has served with other agencies, advisory boards, and commissions outside of BBA. He served as the 2A Cross Country Comissioner for the North Carolina Christian School Association. He has served on the President's Advisory Board for Fayetteville Tech, and has worked closely with multiple schools to design improvement iniatives.

Aiming to leverage his extensive experience for the benefits of students and faculty, especially those of the newer generations, Dr. Farmer seeks to impact educational institutions by driving strategic initiatives and fostering environments that promote academic, spiritual, emotional, and personal growth for students and educators alike.

ACADEMIC PRINCIPALS & DEANS

JAMIE DAVIS

JAMIE DAVIS

DIRECTOR OF ACADEMICS & ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Jamie Davis has served at Berean Baptist Academy since 2009, and she began serving as the Middle School Principal at the start of the 2021-2022 school year and transitioned into the role of Elementary Principal in the fall of 2024. Mrs. Davis is currently also holding the position of Dean of Academics and will be instrumental in the development of that office as BBA aligns for future growth.

During her time at Berean, she has had the privilege of teaching various classes in the Academy to include upper school mathematics, elementary music, and middle school technology. She has led student government, provided college advising, and acted as the Curriculum Director. Prior to serving at BBA, she taught from 2002-2009 in Pennsylvania and Virginia.

Mrs. Davis serves in several ministries at Berean Baptist Church including the music ministry, nursery, children’s ministry, and outreach. She is also an active member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and frequently serves on accreditation teams.

DEGREES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Degrees:

  • Bachelor of Science: Bible Northland Baptist Bible College (2002)
  • Bachelor of Science: Math Education (Music Minor) Northland Baptist Bible College (2002)
  • Master of Science: Educational Leadership Bob Jones University (2018)

Mrs. Davis has earned the following certifications:

  • Echelon Front: Extreme Ownership Academy Certification – 2022
  • Advanced Certificate of School Management and Leadership – Harvard University – 2022
  • Association of Christian Schools International All Levels Principal (Professional Level)
    DR. ANNIE LEVENS-MORRIS

    DR. ANNIE LEVENS-MORRIS

    HIGH SCHOOL & JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEAN

    Dr. Annie Levens-Morris has been a distinguished member of the faculty at Berean Baptist Academy since the 2018-2019 school year. Her background as a Chiropractic Doctor and mother greatly enriches her approach to education and student engagement. Currently, Dr. Morris holds the esteemed position of Dean, effectively serving in a role akin to that of a principal.

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    In her leadership capacity, she is responsible for overseeing academic policies, mentoring the faculty, and managing the administrative functions of the school. Dr. Morris also teaches Biology, Physical Science, and Sports Medicine, in addition to coaching the school’s basketball team. Her dual focus on academics and personal development makes her a pivotal figure in nurturing a supportive and challenging educational environment at the Academy.

    Lauren Whiting

    Lauren Whiting

    HS & JHS DEAN OF ACADEMICS AND CURRICULUM

    Lauren Whiting (née Wilson) is a distinguished alumna of Berean Baptist Academy, having graduated in 2014. She furthered her education at Bob Jones University, where she earned a degree in English and participated extensively in the fine arts programs. Her artistic endeavors took her across Europe and to the renowned Carnegie Hall in New York City.

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    Upon returning to Berean Baptist Academy as a teacher, Lauren has been instrumental in teaching all levels of high school English and has expanded her reach to include dual credit classes in partnership with Fayetteville Technical Community College. Her academic journey continued as she earned a Master’s degree in English and is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in Curriculum Design.

    In her pivotal role, Lauren is responsible for refining the curriculum not only for the high school but also for the junior high, ensuring it meets the highest educational standards. Her duties extend beyond teaching; she assists in aligning departmental standards, supports fellow educators, and oversees programs for students who may be at academic risk. Lauren’s comprehensive approach to education and curriculum development is vital in shaping a robust learning environment for both students and teachers at Berean Baptist Academy.

    Degrees & Certifications:

    • Bachelor of Science: Secondary English Education, Middle School Certification, Bob Jones University
    • Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: English, Liberty University
    • Educational Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction: Educational Psychology, Liberty University (ongoing) 
    • NC State Teaching Licensure
    • ACSI Certified
    DONALD ADAMS

    DONALD ADAMS

    MIDDLE SCHOOL DEAN OF DISCIPLINE

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    In his leadership capacity, he is responsible for overseeing behavior of the student body, providing counseling to students, parents, and students concerning behavior management, and supporting the overall academic operations by ensuring that the learning environment is conducive to learning. His extensive experience in classroom teaching, coaching, being a father, grandfather, and providing pastoral care to families allows him to see many perspectives to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and justly. BBA appreciates Mr. Adams stepping back into one of the more time consuming and stressful roles in education and trust that his previous experience will serve the new generation of students well.

    Degrees and Certifications:

    • Bachelor of Arts: Ministry with a Youth Concentration, Baptist Bible College
    • Master of Arts: Ministry with a concentration in Leadership, Moody Bible Institute
    • ACSI Certified

     

     

    HEATHER WIGGINS

    HEATHER WIGGINS

    MIDDLE SCHOOL DEAN OF ACADEMICS & TEACHER SUPPORT

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    Ms. Wiggins began serving at Berean in 2011 after graduating from Pensacola Christian College. After teaching fourth grade for several years, she transitioned into a lead instructional teacher role in elementary, providing instructional coaching and curriculum guidance for the team. When middle school was reorganized to absorb fifth grade, she joined the department with the desire to help provide leadership for the new team and provided informal leadership to the team while teaching English Language Arts for several years before formally accepting the role as Dean of Academics in 2024. 

    Degrees & Certifications

    • Bachelor of Science: Elementary Education with a Minor in Bible, Pensacola Christian College
    • Master of Science: Educational Leadership, Bob Jones University
    • ACSI Certified
    SANDRA ADAMS

    SANDRA ADAMS

    PRESCHOOL PRINCIPAL

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    • Bachelor of Education: Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, Liberty University
    • Harvard Graduate School of Education- Certificate in School Management and Leadership
    • North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Early Childhood Development
    • North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education, Health and Safety 
    • ProSolutions: Licensed Childcare Laws and Regulations
    • Abeka Academy: Educational Procedures
    Loretta Nally

    Loretta Nally

    CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT | INSTRUCTIONAL COACH

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    DIRECTORS OF ACADEMY OPERATIONS

    CALEB WARREN

    CALEB WARREN

    DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

    Caleb Warren has served in administration at Berean Baptist Academy since 2018, serving as the Middle School Principal and the Elementary Principal until transitioning into the Director of Operations in 2024. The Director of Operations manages facilities, transportation, and technology infrastructure, ensuring that the school operates efficiently and effectively. Mr. Warren also coordinates with other administrators to support academic objectives, handles budgeting and finance responsibilities, and oversees the maintenance and safety of the school premises. Additionally, he plays a pivotal role in crisis management and is involved in strategic planning and community partnerships to improve operational systems. The effectiveness of this position is crucial for creating a conducive learning environment and supporting the school’s broader educational mission. His role at Berean Baptist Church includes teaching a small group and assisting various ministries.

     

     

     

     

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    Before joining the staff at BBA, he served at Rosedale Baptist School in Baltimore, Maryland, from 2014-2018 in various roles, including Vice Principal, Development Director, and Director of Advancement and Technology. He previously served as a full-time teacher in Durham, North Carolina, for seven years. Since he began teaching, he has taught both middle school and high school classes in the areas of the Bible, Biblical Worldview, Language Arts, Technology, and Business Mathematics. Mr. Warren has been involved in ministry and Christian education since 2006.

    Mr. Warren is currently enrolled at Liberty University’s School of Education and is taking doctoral courses in Educational Leadership.

    Degrees:

    • Education Specialist in Educational Leadership – Liberty University (ongoing)
    • Master of Science in Educational Leadership – Bob Jones University
    • Master of Education in Teaching and Administration – West Coast Baptist College
    • Bachelor of Science in Ministry Administration – Berean Baptist College

    Certifications:

    • MIT Sloan School of Management Certificate in Inquiry-Driven Leadership – 2022
    • Echelon Front: Extreme Ownership Academy Certification – 2022
    • Advanced Certificate of School Management and Leadership – Harvard University – 2021 (Advanced Certificate in Leading School Strategy and Innovation, Advanced Certificate in Leading Learning, Advanced Certificate in Leading Change, Advanced Certificate in Leading People)
    • Association of Christian Schools International All Levels Principal (Standard Level)
      BOBBY BURKETT

      BOBBY BURKETT

      STUDENT SERVICE DIRECTOR

      BBA Alumnus

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      After graduating from BBA in 1998, Mr. Burkett served in the public community in various restaurant roles. He has served as an assistant manager, general manager, and training unit manager for Pizza Hut. He is currently a small business owner and has managed, consulted, and owned multiple restaurant concepts.

      He has earned multiple awards and accreditation from his years in the restaurant industry. In addition to maintaining his ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification, he is a certified ServSafe Proctor and Instructor.

      TYRONE SMITH, II

      TYRONE SMITH, II

      FINANCE DIRECTOR

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      Mr. Smith has served BBA in the Athletic Department as the assistant coach for Varsity Boys Basketball and Baseball. Before joining BBA, he worked 7 years in the banking industry with Wells Fargo and JP Morgan Chase bank as a Licensed Banker.

      Degrees and Certifications

      Masters in Business Administration – Western Governor’s University

      Bachelor of Arts in Accounting – Trinity International University
      Series 6 Banking License
      Series 63 Investment License
      Life and Variable License

      Classes and Sports

      Algebra 2
      Trigonometry & Pre-Calculus

      MARY STUBBS

      MARY STUBBS

      REGISTRAR

      BBA Alumnus

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      Mrs. Stubbs is an alumnus of Berean Baptist Academy and has worked at Berean since 2007. Her primary duties include Executive Assistant to the Head of School as well as the Official Registrar of Berean. She has also been the varsity cheerleading coach.

      Degrees and Certifications

      Associates in Office Administration, Fayetteville Technical Community College

      MARY BETH MCDERMID

      MARY BETH MCDERMID

      STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES

       

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      BREEANNA DOUGLAS

      BREEANNA DOUGLAS

      ADMISSIONS COORDINATOR

      BBA Alumnus

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      Mrs. Douglas has been a part of BBA for over 16 years of her life, beginning with her role as a student within the academy. She graduated from BBA in 2011. In 2013, Mrs. Douglas began working in Berean Baptist Church’s Cafe as a barista. Since then, she has worked for the school in a variety of ways. Mrs. Douglas has worked as a High School and Elementary Extended Care worker. She also taught Middle School Technology as well as High School and Middle School Yearbook classes.

      Mrs. Douglas has earned the following degrees and certifications:

      • Substitute Teacher Certification for Cumberland County – Fayetteville Technical Community College
      • Photography Basics Certification – Fayetteville Technical Community College
      • Creative Photography Certification – Fayetteville Technical Community College

      Mrs. Douglas currently teaches the following classes:

      • High School Yearbook
      • Middle School Photography
      ANNETTE RALA

      ANNETTE RALA

      FAMILY FINANCIAL SERVICES COORDINATOR

      BBA Alumnus

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      Coming soon.

      HEIDI UELTZEN

      HEIDI UELTZEN

      DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

      Heidi Ueltzen has a lifelong passion for athletics, participating in various sports such as softball, football/competition cheerleading, and tennis during her childhood. She began weight training in her freshman year of high school, a practice she maintains to this day. At a senior military college, she led physical fitness training for her units and with the Army Reserves. Heidi actively competes in Spartan Races and 5Ks, continually challenging herself physically. Over the past ten years, she has coached athletes ranging from elementary to high school in soccer and cheerleading. In addition, she has designed nutrition and fitness plans tailored to high school athletes and adults, helping them achieve their personal goals. Heidi has also trained her own children in various sports, applying diverse training techniques and strategies to meet the specific needs of each sport.

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      Since 2020, Heidi Ueltzen has been a valued employee at BBA, starting as the elementary technology teacher before transitioning to teach middle school history and physical education. In her teaching roles, she emphasizes the importance of fitness and sportsmanship. Heidi is also an active coach and trainer for the varsity boys and girls soccer teams, as well as the varsity football cheerleading squad. Her extensive experience in athletics and coaching allows her to provide valuable mentorship and guidance to her students and athletes. With a focus on developing well-rounded athletes, Heidi integrates her knowledge of physical training and nutrition into her coaching practices. She is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where students can excel in their sports and develop lifelong skills related to health and fitness.

      DEGREES AND CERTIFICATION

      • Bachelor of Arts: Elementary Education, Western Governors University