STATESVILLE — PSRC Early College High School students brought home gold Monday and the title of 2025-2026 NCSLMA Battle of the Books State Champions.
The competition, hosted by the NC School Library Media Association, took place at the Unity Center in Statesville.
The Battle of the Books is a quiz-style academic competition designed to promote literacy and a love of reading. The competition challenges teams to read a selected list of books and answer detailed questions that test comprehension, teamwork and critical thinking.
“I am proud of these scholars for their hard work, dedication and time spent reading and preparing to compete,” said PSRC ECHS Principal Andrew Davis. “This award is a reflection of their excellence and the dedication of our educators, team members, coaches and families. Congratulations, Eagles!”
PSRC Early College advanced to the state level after earning first place at the regional competition in Cumberland County and at the local level.
“They have shown resilience, discipline, and a true love for reading throughout this journey,” said PSRC ECHS Battle of the Books Coaches Shitan Jones and Paulette DeGrood in a joint statement. “Watching them grow in confidence and come together as a team has been incredibly rewarding. We are proud of all they have accomplished.”
PSRC Media Supervisor Cindi Humphrey could be seen beaming alongside the team in photos at the competition.
“They represented PSRC well,” Humphrey said. “I am very proud of the way they competed and of the diligence they showed in their reading.”
“On behalf of the Public Schools of Robeson County I would like to congratulate these outstanding students on this remarkable achievement. Their success reflects the talent, commitment, and bright future of Public Schools of Robeson County,” said Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson.