Character Education is a priority for Johnston County Public Schools. Through a variety of means, schools in the district promote character education through rewards, bulletin boards, presentations, and interactive lessons. Each month the Johnston County Board of Education recognizes students who have demonstrated good character. Below are the students recognized for April, 2024.
Alika Pa'u
2nd Grade - South Smithfield Elementary
Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated
Alika Pa'u is a wonderful example of what it means to be compassionate. He is the kind of student that will share his thoughts and opinions when he is asked to do so, but is always quick to listen to others.
When working in a group setting, Pa'u is usually the one who encourages his partner(s) to speak up if they haven't contributed to the conversation. Knowing that everyone is treated fairly and has a chance to speak up is something that is very important to him.
He is always sitting beside someone new or playing with a variety of people at recess. He is quiet at first, but when Pa'u is around his friends and those he is comfortable with, he opens up and his personality shines through!
Sarah Crews
5th Grade - Princeton Elementary
Dependability - Keeping your promises
Sarah could be recognized for any of the twelve character traits we believe that Dependability best describes her as a student and individual. She is a valuable member of the flag team, Battle of the Books and Science Olympiad. Crews is a leader among her peers, and she is always willing to help her teachers and classmates.
She is organized and with this skill she assists in keeping the classroom library, and other parts of the classroom, neat and tidy. Also considered a huge asset to Princeton Elementary, Crews helps in the media center and with technology, daily.
To be dependable means to be trustworthy and reliable, and she exemplifies this daily through her actions, even when no one is watching.
Jaida Padilla
8th Grade - Smithfield Middle
Self Discipline - Doing your best in all situations
Jaida Padilla consistently displays exemplary behavior and is self disciplined inside and outside of school. She gets along well with her peers and leads through her actions and words.
Padilla is also an active member of the school’s chorus, and was selected to participate in the district's all-county chorus due to her superb vocal talent. She is the epitome of a role model. Not only is she well-behaved, but she also has a penchant for excellence.
She continues to set high standards for herself and works assiduously to achieve her goals. She truly embodies all the International B Learner attributes but especially principled.
Alexandra Orozco
12th Grade - Smithfield-Selma High
Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated
Alexandra Orozco is someone that Smithfield-Selma High has really learned to depend on. She is a friend and helper to all. Orozco is empathetic and always tries to see life from the perspective of others. She greets everyone with a warm smile and ensures they are seen and heard.
This year, she has been amazingly helpful as a teacher assistant in student services. She is one of those rare people who can sense needs before they are spoken, and has been a huge asset in making sure the Spanish speaking students are able to navigate the ins and outs of high school. There are students participating in the Career & College Promise program now because of Orozco's assistance and diligence last year.
(Not Pictured):
Jodi Grace Woodard
8th Grade - Princeton Middle/High
Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated
Jodi Grace Woodard is a perfect example of a student who shows compassion in everything she does, and everyone she encounters. She is a well-rounded student athlete, who shows respect and compassion on and off the field. Going above and beyond to be kind, Woodard spreads positivity around the school.
She often looks out for students who may feel excluded or alone, and tries her best to include them. Woodard is quick to listen and slow to speak as she supports her peers. Her smile and positivity is contagious to those around her. She also collaborates with staff when she sees a student who may need more support.