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 May, 2024.

Dalton Massengill

8th Grade - Innovation Academy at South Campus

Dependability - Keeping your promises

Dalton Massengill is the Student Body President at Innovation Academy at South Campus, and he truly meets every expectation of this role. He leads the Student Government Association with honesty, integrity, and respect. He gathers feedback from his classmates, and advocates for action and change.

Massengill holds everyone accountable to the vision, mission, and goals of Innovation Academy. He participates in recruitment visits, and many students who entered the school on their first day this year felt excitement and comfort in his steady presence.

Teachers commend him not only for his exceptional academic performance, but for his steadfast reliability. Students turn to Massengill knowing they'll find help and a genuine trustworthy ally. Despite his youth, Massengill's character shines brilliantly, leaving a positive and lasting impression on all who know him.

Olivia Braxton

12th Grade - Virtual Academy

Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up

Olivia Braxton has experienced many challenges during her high school career. She understands that obstacles of life can sometimes hinder future plans and has sought ways to overcome those obstacles and still press on.

She originally planned to matriculate through her secondary years at another Johnston County Public School for high school, but Braxton pivoted and decided to attend Johnston County Virtual Academy.

During her time at Virtual Academy, Braxton has learned time management, self-control, integrity, building relationships, and most importantly, self advocacy. We are excited about her graduating this year. She will be very successful as she begins her future at Johnston Community College next Fall.

Amneris Crespo

12th Grade - Johnston County Career & Technical Leadership Academy

Integrity - Being honest in all things

One name shines forth in the realm of academic excellence intertwined with unwavering integrity: Amneris Crespo. From the moment she stepped foot into our institution, her presence has been synonymous with dedication, empathy, and a pursuit of excellence.

At the heart of Crespo's character lies an unwavering commitment to integrity. In a world where shortcuts may tempt even the most steadfast, she stands tall as a beacon of honesty and moral fortitude. Her integrity isn't merely a trait, it's her essence, woven into every action and decision she makes.

Behind Crespo's exemplary academic achievements lies a story of determination. She doesn't just meet challenges head-on, she embraces them. Whether tackling complex problems or delving into new realms of knowledge, she approaches every task with the commitment to achieving her fullest potential.

But it's not just her academic prowess that sets Crespo apart, it's her innate empathy and unwavering kindness that truly define her character. She approaches every interaction with a genuine warmth and a sincere desire to understand and uplift those around her. Her compassion knows no bounds, whether it's lending a listening ear to a struggling classmate or offering words of encouragement to a friend in need.

Her kindness is not just a trait, but a beacon of light in our institution, inspiring us all to be better. Polite and respectful to the core, Crespo embodies the epitome of grace and courtesy in all her dealings. Her demeanor is a testament to the power of kindness and the profound impact that simple acts of courtesy can have on those around her.

Crespo is a shining example of what it means to strive for excellence in every facet of life. Her unwavering integrity, coupled with her boundless determination and genuine empathy, make her not just a student, but a unique role model for us all. Her journey is a testament to the power of these qualities and their potential to transform lives.

It is with great honor and utmost confidence that we present Amneris Crespo for this prestigious character award. In her, we find not just a student, but a true embodiment of the values and virtues that we hold dear at Career and Technical Leadership Academy. Her influence has not only been felt by those who have had the privilege of knowing her, but has also left an indelible mark on our institution.

NOT PICTURED:

Jada Mays

8th Grade - Choice Plus Academy

Responsibility - Being Accountable for your own actions

Jada Mays represents the character trait of responsibility. She is always ready for class and eager to learn. Mays makes sure that her assignments are completed in a timely manner, and that she always has what she needs to do her work. Not only is she responsible for herself, but she will step up and help others in need. Mays is a joy to have in class, and always does her best and encourages others to do the same.

Mays continues to display responsibility by maintaining good grades and working hard. She moves forward in spite of adversity, and has an excellent work ethic. She enjoys math class and has outstanding grades in those classes. Additionally, she plays the flute in band, practicing on her own to perfect her craft. Mays plans to study band in college.

She is a good person and she tries to make sure everyone is happy. Mays is a great manager in her family, and enjoys helping people seeking ways to learn how to help others in her community.

Mays will be a great leader and become very successful in her profession. We are proud to have Jada represent the Phoenix family!

Ella VandenBerg

11th Grade - Johnston County Early College Academy 

   Patriotism - Loving your country and standing up for the purposes for which it was founded

When it comes to patriotism, no one who exemplifies it better than Early College Academy student Ella VandenBerg. In addition to being an outstanding student who is graduating with both her high school diploma and associate degree in three years, VandenBerg plans to attend Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia.

She will study National Security and upon graduation, she plans to commission into the Marine Corps. Serving her country is in the forefront of VandenBerg's dreams, and she it truly looking forward to fulfilling this goal.

Ella VandenBerg clearly embodies the character trait of patriotism by being an upstanding student who wants to serve her country.