Welcome to Quarter 3! Welcome back! Here is what to look forward to this quarter: For a look at the entire 2024-2025 calendar, click on the link below. School Calendar ************** Leslie Smith Named CCS-Wilmington Headmaster We are excited to welcome Leslie Smith as the new Headmaster of Classical Charter Schools of Wilmington. Mrs. Smith holds a Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education from UNC at Pembroke, as well as a Bachelor of Science from Fayetteville State University. For the past five years, Mrs. Smith has been a valuable member of the CCS-America community. She has served in various roles, including teacher, head teacher, and most recently, operations coordinator at CCS-Whiteville, where she fostered an environment of mutual respect, curiosity, and growth. She will bring this same passion and dedication to her new role as Headmaster. Throughout her career, Mrs. Smith has earned several accolades, including Teacher of the Year for 2023-2024 and multiple National Handwriting Classroom Awards. Her commitment to education and excellence make her an inspiring leader for CCS-Wilmington. We are excited for Mrs. Smith to bring her experience, ideas, and support to the already outstanding CCS-Wilmington team. Please join us in congratulating and welcoming Headmaster Leslie Smith. ************** The Power of Cursive Just in time for National Handwriting Day, officials in Washington are rediscovering something that CCS-America has known all along– that cursive writing is a valuable skill. The National Archives is looking for volunteers to help transcribe historical documents that were written in cursive. Unfortunately, cursive handwriting is becoming an increasingly rare skill, as many students in the U.S. are either not taught it or don’t continue to use it regularly in their daily lives. Many historical documents, including our country’s founding papers, were written in cursive. Without the ability to read cursive, one must rely on someone else’s translation to understand these original texts.   Cursive is a core element of CCS-America’s classical curriculum. Students begin learning to write in cursive in 2nd grade, and by 4th grade, they are expected to write exclusively in cursive—a practice they continue throughout their years at CCS-A.  Research shows that cursive writing has many benefits over typing or printing, including increasing information retention, and engaging the brain more deeply. Studies have found that due to the fluid motion involved, cursive engages more areas of the brain and creates more elaborate brain connectivity patterns. This can enhance memory, fine motor skills, and cognitive processing.   With National Handwriting Day (1/23) just around the corner, be sure your student is practicing their cursive reading and writing in their everyday lives. We’re proud that our students are a part of the effort to keep cursive alive.  Check out the full article to learn more about this cursive reading opportunity: Can you read cursive? It’s a superpower the National Archives is looking for. ************** Students of the Month: Generosity Virtue is an important part of CCS-America’s classical curriculum. Students are recognized monthly for displaying a specific character trait that they are not only learning and practicing, but also recite daily in our School Pledge. December’s character trait was Generosity. Generous students are careful with what they have so they can share with others. Generosity is seen in the School Pledge as “I pledge to be virtuous in all my deeds.” Students apply these words to their everyday lives by doing good for others without seeking anything in return. Congratulations to all CCS-A students who demonstrated outstanding generosity. Check out December’s honorees using the links below! CCS-Leland CCS-Southport CCS-Whiteville CCS-Wilmington ************** Enrollment is OPEN for the 2025-2026 School Year! Spread the word- Open Enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year is here! Tell your friends and family! This year, we are offering a new incentive for current CCS-A parents and staff members. When a new student applies for enrollment at a CCS-A school between 12/1/24 – 6/30/2025 and puts a current parent or staff member’s name down in the “Referred By” section of the application, that parent/staff member will be awarded a $25 Shop RBA gift card for each referral! BE SURE TO PROVIDE ALL NEEDED INFORMATION: The application must have the first and last name of the person providing the referral in order to receive the gift card. ENROLL HERE! ************** Spotlight Nomination Form If you believe you or someone you know deserves a RBA shoutout, let us know! Fill out THIS FORM to nominate someone for a newsletter spotlight!

 

 

Welcome to Quarter 3! Welcome back! Here is what to look forward to this quarter:       For a look at the entire 2024-2025 calendar, click on the link below. School Calendar **************     Leslie Smith Named CCS–Wilmington Headmaster We are excited to welcome Leslie Smith as the new Headmaster of Classical Charter Schools of Wilmington. Mrs. Smith holds a Masters of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education from UNC at Pembroke, as well as a Bachelor of Science from Fayetteville State University. For the past five years, Mrs. Smith has been a valuable member of the CCS-America community. She has served in various roles, including teacher, head teacher, and most recently, operations coordinator at CCS-Whiteville, where she fostered an environment of mutual respect, curiosity, and growth. She will bring this same passion and dedication to her new role as Headmaster. Throughout her career, Mrs. Smith has earned several accolades, including Teacher of the Year for 2023-2024 and multiple National Handwriting Classroom Awards. Her commitment to education and excellence make her an inspiring leader for CCS-Wilmington. We are excited for Mrs. Smith to bring her experience, ideas, and support to the already outstanding CCS-Wilmington team. Please join us in congratulating and welcoming Headmaster Leslie Smith.   **************   The Power of Cursive Just in time for National Handwriting Day, officials in Washington are rediscovering something that CCS-America has known all along– that cursive writing is a valuable skill. The National Archives is looking for volunteers to help transcribe historical documents that were written in cursive. Unfortunately, cursive handwriting is becoming an increasingly rare skill, as many students in the U.S. are either not taught it or don’t continue to use it regularly in their daily lives. Many historical documents, including our country’s founding papers, were written in cursive. Without the ability to read cursive, one must rely on someone else’s translation to understand these original texts.  Cursive is a core element of CCS-America’s classical curriculum. Students begin learning to write in cursive in 2nd grade, and by 4th grade, they are expected to write exclusively in cursive—a practice they continue throughout their years at CCS-A. Research shows that cursive writing has many benefits over typing or printing, including increasing information retention, and engaging the brain more deeply. Studies have found that due to the fluid motion involved, cursive engages more areas of the brain and creates more elaborate brain connectivity patterns. This can enhance memory, fine motor skills, and cognitive processing.   With National Handwriting Day (1/23) just around the corner, be sure your student is practicing their cursive reading and writing in their everyday lives. We’re proud that our students are a part of the effort to keep cursive alive.  Check out the full article to learn more about this cursive reading opportunity: Can you read cursive? It’s a superpower the National Archives is looking for. **************   Students of the Month: Generosity Virtue is an important part of CCS-America’s classical curriculum. Students are recognized monthly for displaying a specific character trait that they are not only learning and practicing, but also recite daily in our School Pledge. December’s character trait was Generosity. Generous students are careful with what they have so they can share with others. Generosity is seen in the School Pledge as “I pledge to be virtuous in all my deeds.” Students apply these words to their everyday lives by doing good for others without seeking anything in return. Congratulations to all CCS-A students who demonstrated outstanding generosity. Check out December’s honorees using the links below! CCS-Leland CCS-Southport CCS-Whiteville CCS-Wilmington **************   Enrollment is OPEN for the 2025-2026 School Year! Spread the word- Open Enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year is here! Tell your friends and family! This year, we are offering a new incentive for current CCS-A parents and staff members. When a new student applies for enrollment at a CCS-A school between 12/1/24 – 6/30/2025 and puts a current parent or staff member’s name down in the “Referred By” section of the application, that parent/staff member will be awarded a $25 Shop RBA gift card for each referral! BE SURE TO PROVIDE ALL NEEDED INFORMATION: The application must have the first and last name of the person providing the referral in order to receive the gift card. ENROLL HERE! ************** Spotlight Nomination Form If you believe you or someone you know deserves a RBA shoutout, let us know! Fill out THIS FORM to nominate someone for a newsletter spotlight!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dear Classical Charter Schools of America parents, families, and friends, 

With the end of the 2023-2024 school year approaching, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for all that our students and staff have accomplished. This year has been marked by growth, achievements, and unforgettable moments.

The year began with our schools being recognized by the Center for Research on Education Outcomes (CREDO) at Stanford University as educational top performers in the country, specifically identified as “gap busters.” This means that our schools are among the best in the nation at ensuring students from all backgrounds succeed in school. In addition, We were thrilled to achieve a national Top 20 ranking on the CLT8, a Classical Learning Test administered to hundreds of schools nationwide. CCS-Leland, in fact, was the only public, open to all, and tuition-free school in the top 20. Both recognitions are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire school community.

This year also brought many exciting firsts within the CCS-America system, including the launch of

middle school sports with the inaugural basketball season and our first Spelling Bee. We celebrated the opening of two new auditoriums that provide spaces for these events and more. Students also continued to compete in FASTAR and the History Bowl; showcased their talents in state and national competitions in archery, cheerleading, and Science Olympiad, and proudly represented the CCS-America community in Beta Club, the national student society that promotes “the ideals of academic achievement, character, leadership, and service.”

Throughout the year, we maintained a focus on school safety while upholding our traditional, classical values and curriculum. Students honed skills like cursive writing and Latin while excelling in subjects such as history, math, science, and reading.

As we reflect on these successes of this past year, I am excited about the future and continued

achievements that lie ahead in our 25th year of academic excellence. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff, supportive parents, and hardworking students for making this year truly memorable. We wish you all a restful and enjoyable summer break.

Warm regards,

Baker A. Mitchell, Founder

Visit ShopRBA for Your Uniform Needs! 

Get ready for the upcoming school year by purchasing your student’s uniform at ShopRBA! The online store carries long lasting, quality clothing at an affordable price. Orders are conveniently delivered to your student’s campus within 7-10 business days.

Please take note of the uniform requirements and changes for the 2024-2025 school year. Navy bottoms, navy dresses, and hoodies will not be permitted. Visit www.ShopRBA.school to see approved items and easily place your order.

We are excited to see you all in uniform for the 2024-2025 school year!

ShopRBA

Uniform Policy

Classical Charter Schools of Southport Welcomes New Headmaster

It is with great pleasure that we announce Mr. Luke Laslovich will assume the position of Headmaster at Classical Charter Schools of Southport for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. With over 20 years of teaching and administrative experience in Montana and at two of our CCS-America campuses, Mr. Laslovich stresses high-quality instruction, commitment to the RBA curriculum and methods, and strong communication skills with students and families. We are thrilled for him to bring his expertise to lead CCS-Southport and further strengthen our classical approach to education.

Over the past quarter, Mr. Laslovich has been working side by side with Mr. Stidham to ensure a smooth transition into the Headmaster role. We extend our gratitude to Mr. Stidham for his stellar leadership at CCS-Southport and are pleased to share that he will be returning to the classroom for the 2024-2025 school year.

Please join us in welcoming Mr. Laslovich to the leadership team at CCS-Southport. We look forward to the continued growth and success of the campus under his guidance.

Basketball Season Comes to a Close

The first CCS-America basketball season has officially come to a close. Congratulations to all of the athletes for their hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship displayed throughout the six games.

In celebration of the end of this season, we invite you to join us today at 4:30 for the long-anticipated student-staff basketball showdown in the CCS-Leland gym. Not only will we enjoy some friendly competition, but we also will be presenting the season champions with their first-place trophies and medals.

As we wrap up this season, we are already looking forward to the 2024-2025 CCS-America sports programs! Soccer will kick off in August, basketball will return in December, and baseball and softball are set for March. If your middle school student is interested in joining our sports programs, please get in touch with your athlete’s PE teacher for sign-up information or contact Dean LaFave at jlafave@rogerbacon.net.

Thank you to all of our athletes, coaches, and supporters for making this inaugural season a success. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for CCS-America sports.

Staff and student basketball game information

It’s National Charter Schools Week! 

This week, May 12-18, we celebrate the power of YOUR voice in your student’s education!

We are proud to honor and acknowledge the 8,000 charter schools, 251,000 teachers, and the countless lawmakers who advocate for the nearly 4 million charter students nationwide. Every student and family deserves access to a high-quality public education, and student-centered charter schools have the ability to cater to the needs of each family and community in ways that traditional district schools cannot.

We are grateful to you for choosing Classical Charter Schools of America and for being a vital part of the movement that is improving the lives of millions of students across the nation. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to educational excellence.

Celebrate National Charter Schools Week

EOG Tips and Tricks 

As we approach the end-of-grade (EOG) testing period, we want to ensure our students are prepared and supported for success. This Friday, 5th and 8th graders will be taking the Science EOG, followed by the Reading EOG on Tuesday, May 21, and the Mathematics EOG on Wednesday, May 22 for grades 3-8. To help our students perform their best, here are some tips for parents and guardians to assist them during this crucial time:

Create a quiet and dedicated space for your student to complete and review homework.
Encourage your student to explain what he or she has learned in school to reinforce their understanding.
Ensure your student gets enough rest with an early bedtime.
Help your student review any classwork or study review materials.
Be sure to serve healthy, well-balanced meals, especially for breakfast, to fuel your student’s day.
Help your student manage stress and anxiety by discussing expectations, concerns, and aspirations.
Start the testing day calmly to set a positive tone.
Remind your student to take the test seriously and to listen carefully to all instructions.
To combat test anxiety, encourage your student to take deep breaths to relax and utilize breaks during the test.
When the tests are complete, celebrate the hard work and achievements of your student!

NC DPI EOG Information

Race of Champions 

Classical Charter Schools of Southport held the 10th Annual FASTAR® Race of Champions on Wednesday, April 24th. Competitors from each CCS-America campus showcased incredible skill, speed, and accuracy.

Following four quick races, each with four “laps” of reading and math, CCS-Southport emerged victorious by a mere 2 seconds. Congratulations to all of the champion racers, with a special acknowledgement to CCS-Southport’s pit crew and racers for securing their second consecutive victory.

If your student is interested in participating in this thrilling academic race, make sure to sign them up for FASTAR® in the 2024-2025 school year!

Pictures

The 8th Annual History Bowl 

The Roger Bacon Academy hosted its 8th annual History Bowl last Friday, April 26th at Classical Charter Schools of Leland. Throughout the year, students have been studying up to 400 questions that may be asked during the competition. These questions align with The Roger Bacon Academy’s chronological history curriculum. The students showcased an impressive display of historical knowledge, sportsmanship, and competitive spirit.

This year marked a significant achievement as all four schools won a grade level! The competition was close, with the final round of the 8th grade competition even going into double sudden-death overtime. Congratulations to the following grades and campuses for bringing home trophies. All students should take pride in their hard work and performance.

 5th grade: CCS-Wilmington

 6th grade: CCS-Leland

 7th grade: CCS-Whiteville

 8th grade: CCS-Southport

We would also like to recognize 8th graders Gabriel Hughes and Josie Baroski of CCS-Southport, Walter Davis of CCS-Leland, and Macy Young of CCS-Whiteville for competing in the History Bowl since 5th grade.

Pictures

Students of the Month

CCS-America students are recognized monthly for displaying a specific character trait from our School Pledge that they not only say but also practice in their daily lives.

April’s character trait was Respect. Students who show respect treat others with honor and dignity. Respect is seen in the School Pledge as “I pledge to be obedient and loyal to those in authority.” CCS-America students apply these words to their everyday lives by treating adults with courtesy, using good manners, and treating their peers the way they want to be treated.

Congratulations to all of these students who demonstrated exemplary respect. Check them out on the links below!

CCS-Leland

CCS-Southport

CCS-Whiteville

Did You Know? A Cautionary Tale. 

Starting in kindergarten, consistent absence, whether excused or unexcused, can lead to children falling behind in school. 
Missing 10 percent of school days, that’s just two days a month, increases the chance that your student will not achieve the same level of reading and math proficiency as their peers.
Even missing a day or two every few weeks can hinder a student’s academic progress.

When a student accumulates 10 or more unexcused absences, the parent/guardian may be in violation of North Carolina’s Compulsory Attendance Law and could face prosecution if the absences cannot be justified under the established attendance policies. Recently, a parent at CCS-America received a jail sentence due to their child’s attendance record. Monitoring attendance closely, with letters sent home after 3, 6, and 10 unexcused days, aims to prevent families from being referred to the district attorney’s office and facing criminal court appearances. This offense is classified as a Class I Misdemeanor and could potentially result in up to 120 days of incarceration of the parent/guardian.

We miss your students when they are not in school, and we value their contributions to our community. We would like your help in ensuring that your student attends school regularly and achieves success academically. If your student is going to be absent, please contact the child’s teacher and send in a written note from you, the doctor, etc., excusing the absence.