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 September, 2024.

Emily Valadez

5th Grade - Cleveland Elementary

Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up

Emily Valadez is by far the most hardworking, optimistic and resilient student we have ever taught. She consistently goes above and beyond, always meeting goals, and challenging herself to grow even more!

Not only does she lead with an attitude of perseverance, but Valadez also strives to help others persevere. When she sees others with a need, big or small, she is the first to step in and help in any and every way. Valadez is a cheerleader for ALL students. She consistently encourages her classmates to work hard to meet their goals and celebrates their successes.

Valadez is the true definition of what it means to persevere and encourage others to, as well. With her positive attitude, determination, and work ethic, she will go far and do great things in the future.

Britney Lima-Alfaro

12th Grade - Cleveland High

Self Discipline - Doing your best in all situations

Britney Lima-Alfaro's commitment to her classes, including Fundamentals and Studio courses, as well as her role as Events Team Leader for Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), demonstrates a remarkable level of dedication and hard work.

Her participation in the FCCLA Leadership Summit at East Carolina University, and her impressive performance at the FCCLA State Leadership Conference in Greensboro underscores her dedication. Lima-Alfaro worked tirelessly on her interior design project, even starting over when she wasn't satisfied with the initial design, is a testament to her self-discipline and refusal to settle for less than her best.

Lima-Alfaro's contributions are greatly valued, and we are confident that her hard work and determination will lead to continued success in all her future endeavors.

Troy Hinkley

8th Grade - Cleveland Middle

Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated

Each day, Troy Hinkley brings a positive attitude and a spirit of excellence to the Cleveland Middle community. His teachers describe him as one of the kindest students they've ever met. Hinkley's thoughtfulness extends beyond his peers. He actively encourages the educators by delivering heartfelt kindness cards, reminding them of the profound impact they have.

In addition to his strong character, Hinkley is a well-rounded student, excelling in both athletics and Fine Arts productions.

He not only speaks highly of his peers but exemplifies what it means to be a supportive, engaged member of the school. Troy Hinkley truly embodies the essence of what it means to GLOW at Cleveland Middle, and we are so proud of the light he continues to share with us all.

Josey Antrobus

5th Grade - Polenta Elementary

Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated

Josey Antrobus is kind towards her teachers by always bringing them special treats and drawing pictures. At the open house, Antrobus had painted pictures for her science and reading teachers. The effort that she put in was evident in a beaker painting for her science teacher, and a book painting for her reading teacher.

She is always willing to help other students. On the second day of kindergarten, Antrobus volunteered to help the kindergarten students get to their classrooms. She models compassion for the students in her class by always following directions, so they have the best learning environment possible. Josey can be found on the playground talking to different groups of students and expressing interest in their lives.

Josey speaks kindly and encourages others. She accepts people for who they are and has made a positive impact at Polenta.

Emily Weber

8th Grade - Swift Creek Middle 

   Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up

Swift Creek Middle School students are known as WOLVES: “W” - Wisdom to do the right thing, “O” - Offering help and guidance to those in need, “L” - Leadership means leaving no one behind, “V” - Victory in all areas of education, “E” - Exhibit courage and never back down and, “S” - Strength in the Pack.

Emily Weber truly embodies the character traits of being a Wolf. She has repeatedly shown that she will not back down, nor give up no matter the obstacle.

Weber approaches the challenge with remarkable determination. She works diligently to ensure that she has the necessary notes for class, any work missed is completed, and she stays focused to not fall behind,

Though it is the beginning of the school year, it is clear that Weber is determined to be successful.