And Our 2025 Soccer Champions Are…

After a competitive and hard-fought middle school soccer season, the CCS-Southport boys’ team and the CCS-Leland girls’ team have come out on top and earned the title of the 2025 CCS-America soccer champions! Congratulations, players and coaches!

Both teams finished the season with impressive records, with the CCS-Southport boys ending with a 5-0-1 record and the CCS-Leland girls ending with a 4-1-1 record.

We are very proud of all our athletes who participated in this soccer season for their dedication and hard work. Boys and girls teams from CCS-Whiteville, CCS-Southport, and CCS-Leland all played hard and demonstrated great sportsmanship, reflecting the true CCS-America spirit.

A big thank you to our coaches, referees, and administration for all the hard work that they put into making the season go smoothly. Until next year, CCS-America soccer!

CCS-America middle school sports will continue with basketball in the winter. The first game will be played at CCS-Leland on December 4th. Come cheer on your team!

Click below to view the full CCS-America 2025-2026 sports calendar:

CCS-America Sports Calendar

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CCS-America Celebrates Halloween

CCS-America campuses got into the Halloween spirit with our annual Trunk or Treat celebration! This event is one of our most anticipated and enjoyed by students, staff, and parents alike. Parents and community members lined each campus with creatively decorated trunks, passing out candy to dressed-up students as they visited each car.

This year, our trunk decorators went all out and transformed their cars into innovative and entertaining displays. Each trunk showcased a unique theme- zombies, dinosaurs, mermaids, movies, and more!

CCS-America students also showcased their creativity with their fun and spooky costumes that made the day even more festive.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a memorable and special experience for our students!

Use the links below to see pictures from each Trunk or Treat event:

CCS-Leland

CCS-Southport

CCS-Whiteville

CCS-Wilmington

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Students of the Month: Determination

Virtue is an important part of CCS-America’s unique classical curriculum. Every month, students from each grade level are recognized for displaying the ‘character trait of the month.’ Students learn about this trait in their character education class and practice it in their daily lives.

October’s character trait was Determination. Determined students work hard, honor their commitments, and never give up, even when challenges arise. This virtue is shown in the school pledge as “I pledge to be virtuous in all my deeds.” Students show determination by keeping a positive and uplifting attitude when things get tough. They inspire those around them to do their best.

Congratulations to all students who were recognized for their outstanding determination! Check out October’s honorees at the links below: 

CCS-Leland

CCS-Southport- Pictures being posted to Facebook soon!

CCS-Whiteville

CCS-Wilmington

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Open Enrollment Begins December 1st!

CCS-America’s Open Enrollment is just under a month away! Spread the word and invite your friends and family to join our school community for the 2026-2027 school year.

Starting Monday, December 1st, new students can begin the enrollment process at www.EnrollRBA.com. We are looking forward to the exciting year ahead for both our new and returning students!

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October is National Principals Month!

This month, we are proud to celebrate our dedicated and passionate Classical Charter Schools of America Headmasters. They work tirelessly to support our students, staff, and families, both in the classroom and out.

As we close out October, be sure to take a moment to let your headmaster know how much you appreciate them!

Mrs. Laurie Benton, CCS-Leland Headmaster

Mrs. Jessica Fortier, CCS-Leland Asst. Headmaster

Mrs. Leslie Smith, CCS-Wilmington Headmaster

Mrs. Amanda Sauls, CCS-Southport Headmaster

Mrs. Kimberly Patrick, CCS-Whiteville Headmaster

Mrs. Leslie Strickland, CCS-Whiteville Asst. Headmaster

Headmasters, thank you for everything you do each and every day to lead, inspire, and make a difference. CCS-America wouldn’t be the same without you!

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CCS-America Art Shines in Brunswick Poster Contest

CCS-America offers a well-rounded classical education that includes a strong emphasis on the arts. Art encourages creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. All students attend a weekly art class as part of their “resource” rotation. Middle school students have the option to choose art as one of their electives for a more in-depth art experience.

Each year, students from CCS-Leland and CCS-Southport participate in the poster contest at the Brunswick County Intercultural Festival. Last year, students from both schools placed very high. CCS-Southport fourth-grader Jordyn Ernstes won Best in Show and had her winning artwork featured on this year’s Festival flyer.

This year, CCS-Leland art students earned top honors in both the elementary and middle school divisions of the contest.

Check out the winners below:

Elementary Poster Contest:

1st place- Angelina Yang- CCS-Leland

2nd place- Diauna Dai Latham- CCS-Leland

3rd place- Renee Rey- CCS-Leland

Middle School Poster Contest:

1st place- Lola Myers- Shallotte Middle School

2nd place- Julia Murray- CCS-Leland

3rd place- Dyviah Seabrook- CCS-Leland

Congratulations to these students for their outstanding creativity and hard work! We are proud of how greatly you represented the CCS-America art program.

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Spread the Word About CCS-America!

With Open Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year just over a month away, we want to share with the world what makes CCS-America so special, straight from the people who know it best: our students, families, and alumni!

Take this short survey on Niche.com letting other families know how much you enjoy your school and be entered for a chance to win $1,000! This is open to students, parents, and recent alumni. Enter your full school’s name in the search bar (Classical Charter Schools of Leland/ Southport/ Whiteville/ Wilmington) and click the “Start Survey” button.

As a reminder, Open Enrollment begins on December 1st!

Take Survey HERE

Thank you for helping us share the CCS-America experience!

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Welcome Back for Quarter 2!

We are excited for another great quarter at CCS-America! Here are some important dates to remember:

Check out the full 2025-2026 CCS-America academic and sports calendars:

Academic Calendar

Sports Calendar

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CCS-Leland’s Ella Norris wins National SAR History Award!

Ella Norris, an eighth-grade student at CCS-Leland, has earned national recognition by placing fourth in the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) national brochure contest.

The SAR is a non-profit organization committed to preserving American history, promoting patriotism, and educating future generations through educational contests and programs. Each year, it holds the Sgt. Moses Adams Memorial Middle School Brochure contest for students across the country.

Ella’s award-winning brochure focused on the importance of the U.S. Constitution. After winning her school-wide contest, her brochure competed and won at both the local and state SAR chapter levels. It then represented North Carolina at the national competition. At each level, entries were judged on content, creativity, and accuracy.

The results of the national competition were announced at the 27th annual SAR Youth Luncheon on July 15, where Ella was named the fourth-place winner nationwide. To celebrate her accomplishment, the Lower Cape Fear SAR chapter honored Ella at their chapter meeting on Sept. 27. She was treated to lunch, awarded a certificate from the National Brochure Contest Committee, and received a $100 prize.

“We couldn’t be prouder of Ella’s achievement,” said Laurie Benton, Headmaster of CCS-Leland. “Our schools teach and emphasize the importance of patriotism and a strong understanding of our country’s history. Our annual Constitution Day celebrations help reinforce these values. Ella’s dedication and passion for history is evident in her hard work, and it’s great to see her scholarship and talents recognized nationally. It is both an honor to Ella personally, and a tribute to the strong history program at CCS-America.”

Congratulations, Ella! Your CCS-America family is so proud!

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CCS-America in the News

A recent The Washington Times article discussing the important role of entrepreneurship in America highlighted CCS-America for its role in educational innovation based on tradition. In the piece titled “Entrepreneurship: The Underappreciated Economic Engine of America,” author Richard Lorenc mentioned CCS-America (along with other leading charter school networks nationwide) as an example of entrepreneurial success in education.

Lorenc emphasized how CCS-America’s curriculum was “built upon time-proven curricula and teaching methods to produce top-performing schools.” He noted how CCS-America’s approach represents the same spirit of innovation that has driven America’s greatest inventors and entrepreneurs.

CCS-America is and has always been committed to implementing innovations with the goal of enhancing safety, learning, and cost-effectiveness in education. To learn moreabout our specific process and product innovations, check out our Innovations Handbook.

CCS-America is proud to be nationally recognized nationally for our commitment to a classical education model that includes academic rigor, moral virtue, and the pursuit of truth.

Read the full article using the link below:

The Washington Times Article

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Celebrating Constitution Day

Last Thursday, CCS-America students observed Constitution Day, commemorating the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787.

Students celebrated by participating in parades and activities highlighting the importance of the Constitution. Each class made a special poster that was proudly displayed in the parade. Every campus had their own unique additions to the parade and featured a special visitor: the “Father of the Constitution,” James Madison! He gave an inspiring speech and helped lead the parade.

Throughout the day, students learned a lot about our nation’s foundation and Constitution, focusing on the significance of the first three words: “We the People.“

Click the links below to see parade pictures from each campus.

CCS-Leland

CCS-Whiteville

CCS-Wilmington

CCS-Southport’s parade pictures will be uploaded to their Facebook shortly!

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Shakespeare Week

CCS-America wrapped up Quarter 1 with our annual Shakespeare Week! Each year, students and staff celebrate with activities, crafts, and events that illustrate life during Shakespeare’s time, from 1564 to 1616.

This year, everyone enjoyed a magic show from a court jester from No Sleeves Magic, Shakespeare presentations from our middle schoolers, archery demonstrations, and more. There was even a dress-up day where students transformed into their favorite Shakespearean characters, including kings, knights, fairies, and wizards.

Students had a blast while learning about the life and legacy of one of the greatest and most influential writers in history, William Shakespeare!

Join in the Shakespeare Week fun by visiting your school’s Facebook page to see photos of these exciting events!

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Students of the Month: Loyalty

CCS-America’s classical curriculum places a strong emphasis on virtue. Each month, students are recognized for displaying a certain character trait that they explore in the classroom and practice in their daily lives. This trait is also recited daily as a part of the school pledge.

September’s character trait was Loyalty. Loyal students are reliable and committed to their friends, family, and school. This virtue is reflected in the Pledge as “I pledge to be obedient and loyal to those in authority.” Students live out these words by supporting and standing by their friends, respecting authority, and staying true to their values and community.

Congratulations to all CCS-America students who showed outstanding loyalty!

Check out September’s honorees using the links below:

CCS-Leland

CCS-Southport

CCS-Whiteville

CCS-Wilmington

CCS-America Excels on State Tests

Due to the hard work of the CCS-America community, all four CCS-America schools scored impressively high on the North Carolina 2024-2025 End of Grade/ End of Course tests! The scores were released by the NC Department of Public Instruction at the State Board of Education meeting on September 3.

Here are some highlights:

– CCS-Southport earned the HIGHEST combined scores of all public elementary/middle schools in Brunswick County and EXCEEDED growth expectations.

– CCS-Leland EXCEEDED growth expectations and had the second highest Reading scores in Brunswick county, only behind sister school, CCS-Southport.

– CCS-Whiteville EXCEEDED growth expectations and was one of only five schools in their area to exceed growth in overall academic scores.

– CCS-Wilmington met growth expectations achieved a significant 6-point jump in overall school performance.

We are so proud of the CCS-America team’s accomplishments. Great job students, staff, and parents!

FULL PRESS RELEASE: CCS-Southport Outperforms Brunswick County Schools on State Tests

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Soccer Season Begins!

The CCS-America soccer season is here and is off to a great start! Every Thursday, our middle school boys and girls teams hit the field for some fun competition and to show their skills. Sportsmanship, an important part of the CCS-America character education curriculum, is expected and highlighted throughout each game.

The first two games have been very competitive and full of energy. Congratulations to CCS-Leland, CCS-Southport, and CCS-Whiteville for their early wins in the opening games!

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for our next game on Thursday, September 11th, where CCS-Leland will face off against CCS-Southport at the Leland campus. Come cheer on our incredible athletes!

We are very excited to see where the rest of the season will take us and for another great year of CCS-America middle school athletics. Girls and boys basketball will pick up in the winter, while softball and baseball will take place in the spring.

Click the link below to see pictures from the first games of the year:

Game 1- Whiteville VS Leland

Game 2- Southport VS Whiteville

To take a look at the entire CCS-A 2025-26 Middle School Sports Calendar, click on the link below:

2025-26 Sports Calendar

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Students of the Month: Responsibility

CCS-America’s classical curriculum includes a strong emphasis on virtue. Each month, students are recognized for displaying a certain character trait that they explore in the classroom and practice in their daily lives. This trait is also recited daily as a part of the school Pledge.

Responsibility was August’s character trait. Responsible students take ownership of their thoughts, words, and actions. This virtue is reflected in the Pledge as “I Pledge to keep myself healthy in body, mind, and spirit.” Students embody these words by taking care of themselves, striving for excellence, and fulfilling their duties.

Congratulations to all CCS-A students who showed exceptional responsibility. Check out August’s honorees using the links below!

CCS-Leland

CCS-Southport

CCS-Whiteville

CCS-Wilmington

National Beta Schools of Merit

CCS-Leland and CCS-Whiteville have been named 2024-2025 National Beta Schools of Merit by the National Beta Club, the nation’s largest independent student honor society. The award honors Beta Clubs that include members from all eligible grade levels and reflect a strong commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service.

Both schools also achieved top national rankings at the 2025 National Beta Convention in Orlando. CCS-Whiteville’s Elementary Robotics team (made up of Adam Ahmad, Caleb Hobbs, Hunter Thomas, Ryan Martin, and John Hudson Richardson) placed tenth, while CCS-Leland had two students place individually. Jace Granda placed tenth in 6th Grade U.S. History, and Alex Eaton placed ninth in 7th Grade U.S. History.

“At our school, we strive to cultivate leadership, service, and academic excellence. National Beta embodies all of that and more,” said Laurie Benton, headmaster of CCS-Leland. “I couldn’t be prouder of our Beta Club students. Their achievements reflect not only their dedication and character, but also the spirit of our entire school community.”

Kimberly Patrick, headmaster of CCS-Whiteville, echoed Benton’s sentiment. “Our Beta Club has continued to shine on the national level, and I am so proud of them. These students truly represent what CCS-America is all about.”

Learn More About National Beta Club

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Staff Spotlight: Andrea Vitolo

The Roger Bacon Academy is dedicated to internal growth and promotion. Our leadership works to recognize talent, nurture potential, and promote from within. Andrea Vitolo’s journey illustrates this commitment. Her dedication and drive have taken her from the classroom to a key role in the RBA Corporate Office.

Andrea began her journey at RBA in August 2015 when she joined CCS-Leland as a substitute teacher, primarily supporting 3rd grade classrooms. Just one month later, she accepted a full-time position as a Kindergarten Teaching Assistant. She remained in this role for several years, building a strong foundation in early childhood education and experiencing firsthand the impact of an RBA education.

In July 2021, Andrea advanced to the position of Kindergarten Interventionist, where she provided targeted support for students needing additional academic assistance. Her commitment to student success and her growing skill set did not go unnoticed. In November of the same year, she continued her professional growth by joining the RBA Corporate Office as a Finance Assistant. In this role, she continued to expand her knowledge and gained hands-on experience in financial operations.

In 2023, Andrea was promoted to Payroll and Benefits Coordinator, her current role. She now manages payroll processing and employee benefits administration for RBA staff.

Andrea’s journey is a testament to both her hard work and RBA’s strong culture of supporting and promoting talent from within. This month, Andrea celebrates ten years at CCS-America and RBA. We are proud to have her as a member of the RBA family and look forward to all she will accomplish in the years to come.

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CCS-America Dresses for Success!

CCS-America schools have Dress for Success Days throughout the year to help students build the habit of dressing in a nice and professional fashion. While participation is optional, these days are designed to give students the opportunity to experience the benefits of dressing professionally. Research shows that dressing professionally can boost confidence, improve performance, and strengthen communication skills.

Dressing professionally is a lifelong skill, especially in situations where it is important to make a good first impression. Students will carry this habit into college interviews, job interviews, business meetings, and many other future opportunities.

Students will have several chances to wear their Dress for Success outfits throughout the year. The first Dress for Success Day is tomorrow, August 28th. We encourage all students to participate!

Upcoming Dress for Success Days:

September 18th

October 30th

November 25th

December 18th

Visit the links below to get your student’s Dress for Success items:

Dress for Success Collection

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