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 March 2025. Congratulations to each of these students who exemplify good character traits!!!
Westin Dorner
5th Grade - Powhatan Elementary
Respect - Understanding that all people have value as human beings
Westin Dorner consistently exemplifies what it means to be a respectful and considerate individual. One of the most remarkable ways he displays respect is through his kindness and compassion toward others.
Dorner has gone above and beyond to support a student from another classroom who joins his classes for enhancements and lunch. He offers help, provides friendship, and shows patience. His ability to show empathy and understanding creates an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.
Congratulations Westin Dorner for being recognized as the March Character Ed Student for Powhatan Elementary!
Greyson Hey
5th Grade - Riverwood Elementary
Dependability - Keeping your promises
Greyson Hey is reliable, responsible, and dependable. He not only keeps himself on track, but he also keeps his teachers and fellow classmates on task, and on schedule. Hey has adapted to many changes over the years, and has demonstrated an incredible ability to overcome challenges and persevere through them. He is well known to many students and staff, and has brought much joy to our school throughout his years.
Congratulations Greyson Hey for being recognized as the March Character Ed Student for Riverwood Elementary!
Danna Soto
8th Grade - Selma Middle
Integrity - Being honest in all things
Danna Soto is not only honest and consistently takes responsibility for her actions, Soto encourages her peers to do the same. She creates random acts of kindness around Selma Middle by posting sticky notes of encouragement in various parts of the school.
Soto strives to do her best in all things and to lead by example. A member of the National Junior Honor Society Chapter, she recently joined the yearbook staff, and already has been making a difference in helping move the project forward.
Congratulations to Danna Soto for being recognized as the March Character Ed Student for Selma Middle!
Josiah Watson
5th Grade - West Smithfield Elementary
Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up
Josiah Watson demonstrates perseverance and determination when faced with challenges and remains committed to his goals. He consistently shows a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. Regardless of the task, Watson stays focused and motivated.
In addition, his kindness and willingness to help others have positively impacted his peers and teachers. Watson's desire to strengthen his skills and set goals inspires others and sets an example of hard work and persistence.
Congratulations to Josiah Watson for being recognized as the March Character Ed Student for West Smithfield Elementary!
Brian Atilano-Sandoval
5th Grade - Selma Elementary
Courage - Doing the right thing even when others do not
Brian Atilano-Sandoval consistently demonstrates responsibility, respect, and courage in both academic and extracurricular settings. What truly sets Atilano-Sandoval apart is his remarkable courage. He is not afraid to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult.
Whether advocating for a peer, expressing an opinion with integrity, or taking on challenges that push him outside of his comfort zone, Atilano-Sandoval leads by example and faces obstacles with determination and perseverance. His ability to take risks, being humble, and approach difficult situations is remarkable.
Congratulations to Brian Atilano-Sandoval for being recognized as the March Character Ed Student for Selma Elementary!
Not pictured:
Yandell Herrera-Roman
8th Grade - Riverwood Middle
Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up
Yandell Herrera-Roman is a leader in the 8th grade, encouraging his peers to do their very best by being a positive role model. He was one of the students selected to serve on the Assistant Principal Interview Panel to represent the students’ voices and perspectives.
Herrera-Roman always shows respect towards his teachers, coaches, and other staff members. He has learned to self-advocate, and prides himself on his academic achievements and positive decision-making.
Congratulations to Yandell Herrera-Roman for being recognized as the March Character Ed Student for Riverwood Middle!