Johnston County Early College Academy And Johnston County Career & Technical Leadership Academy Students Return To The Classroom

SMITHFIELD – Johnston County Early College Academy (JCECA) and Johnston County Career & Technical Leadership Academy (JCCTLA) students were welcomed back into the buildings on the Johnston Community College (JCC) campus on Monday, August 11, 2025, and Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Upon arrival, students were greeted with smiles and excitement by the staff and administrators for their first day of the 2025-2026 academic year.

As part of JCPS’ specialty schools and programs, both academies provide rigorous and accelerated curricula for their accepted students, so that they may continue studies in their desired field or begin a rewarding career immediately upon graduation. JCECA and JCCTLA boast a 95% graduation rate, which is above the state average. Additionally, students in the academies excel in measured academic testing across the board.

The educational opportunities presented to students through both academies are exciting for students and staff alike. For newly appointed JCECA/JCCTLA Assistant Principal Candace Westbrook, it’s an exciting new chapter in her career. Having been a part of elementary and middle schools, she is ready to begin working with the students. “I am excited for the opportunity to work with these students and mold them as they go out into life,” she said.

JCECA represents a unique collaboration between a public school and a community college. The academy enables students to take college-level classes in addition to their high school core courses. Graduates receive a high school diploma and either an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from Johnston Community College. The academy is designed as a path for students to continue their education at a four-year college.

JCCTLA offers an alternative to traditional high school programs, emphasizing academic and career preparation, success, and support in higher education. Students earn a high school diploma and an associate degree in careers including, but not limited to, Early Childhood Education, Mechanical Engineering, and Paralegal. JCCTLA’s vision provides students with options to help them flourish and prosper in any profession they choose.

On the first day, JCECA Principal Robert Daniels delivered words of wisdom to his new students. “We are going to grow you. Your parents will see growth in you, not just academically, but emotionally and socially. I challenge you to learn new things every day. Make every day count, and make it meaningful,” he said.

For CTLA senior Abdul Stewart, he is motivated for his final year in the program, with the confidence that he is well-equipped for the next step in his educational journey. He credits his readiness to the collegiate environment that CTLA offers its students. Stewart is currently planning to attend the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, majoring in computer science.

Beyond academics, students at both schools have the opportunity to develop strong connections with their peers, which is an essential component for student success.