Want to learn more about the new grading practices 👉 https://bit.ly/4pgQPeD
Dr. Takicey Dunston, Principal at Benson Elementary, is dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment for every student. Throughout her 30+ years of experience in education, Dr. Dunston’s overarching strategy has always been to meet students where they are, discover their strengths, and teach them useful techniques to utilize those strengths to improve in other areas of learning.
Her impact goes far beyond the classroom. Dr. Dunston has also created a community of positivity and collaboration among her staff. She knows how important it is to set the tone during the highs and especially during the lows, and continually displays her belief in the students and teachers.
That commitment to both students and staff has not gone unnoticed. At the JCPS annual Leadership Conference, Dr. Dunston was named the 2025-2026 Principal of the Year!
Congratulations, Dr. Takicey Dunston! 👏
You can learn more about our 2025-2026 Principal of the Year here: http://bit.ly/4qpYGH7
Watch our highlight video here: https://bit.ly/JCPS25POY
Libraries have always been Menjivar’s happy place, and her love of reading, curiosity, and compassion show through all that she does, whether it is supporting other educators or helping students reach their goals.
Read more about Menjivar’s journey here: http://bit.ly/4qcDa8L
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
She is a hardworking and motivated student, and Serenity's confidence and dedication show in every project and assignment she completes. She also brings kindness and encouragement to her teachers and peers by greeting them every day with high spirits.
Congratulations, Serenity, for being recognized as the October Character Ed Student for McGee's Crossroads Middle! 👏
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
Join us this Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025, at 2 PM for our Welcome Wednesdays session, an open-door approach to assisting individuals aspiring to become a part of the JCPS team!
Welcome Wednesdays is a hands-on, in-person opportunity for individuals to receive assistance with applications and to ask questions about the various job openings we have within the district.
See you soon!
Isabelle Phillips stands as a shining example of West View Wise Owl academic achievement. Her dedication to learning has earned her the prestigious Level 5 scores in both mathematics and reading in 4th grade, demonstrating her exceptional abilities across multiple content areas.
Her outstanding performance reflects not only her natural talents but also her commitment to educational excellence. Isabelle consistently demonstrates respect for her teachers, peers, and school community.
She listens attentively during lessons, follows classroom expectations. Isabelle takes full ownership of her learning journey.
Congratulations, Isabelle, for being recognized as the October Character Ed Student for West View Elementary! 👏
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
He takes part in the Student Government Association, National Honor Society, and Wildcat Ambassadors. Christopher has also earned the national Alexander Hamilton Scholar Award for his strong community service and high academic achievement.
As a first-generation Mexican-American, Christopher has turned challenges into motivation and shows resilience, leadership, and hard work. He manages school, sports (football and track), and community service while running his own small business.
Congratulations, Christopher, for being recognized as the October Character Ed Student for West Johnston High! 👏
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
School Zone Markings (Oct 17 & Oct 20 from 9:00am – 2:00pm):
Clayton High School
- Fayetteville St
- Hamby St
Cooper Academy
- Mial St
- Wilson St
- Camel St
- Randolph Dr
- Elliot Dr
- Rosemary St
Riverwood Middle & Elementary Schools
- Athletic Club Blvd
- Payton Dr
- Manning Dr
- Collinsworth Dr
We apologize for any delays or traffic inconveniences these projects may cause.
Autumn Baier brings a warm smile and a friendly attitude to school every day. She possesses a quiet confidence that serves her well, allowing her to approach challenges with determination.
Her teachers describe her as dependable, focused, and always ready to contribute to class discussions. Autumn is an engaged learner who consistently stays on task and gives her best effort in everything she does.
She demonstrates a true love for learning and maintains a strong growth mindset, always eager to improve.
Congratulations, Autumn, for being recognized as the October Character Ed Student for McGee's Crossroads Elementary! 👏
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
Maggie Gardner exemplifies hard work, perseverance, and kindness. She consistently puts forth her best effort in class and demonstrates determination when faced with challenges.
She is a natural leader who models excellent listening skills and positive behavior for her peers. Also, Maggie is kind-hearted and is always willing to help classmates who may be struggling, offering encouragement and support when others are having a difficult day.
Maggie communicates respectfully with both adults and peers, and values building positive relationships with those around her.
Congratulations, Maggie, for being recognized as the October Character Ed Student for Dixon Road Elementary! 👏
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
Tolar first joined JCPS to be close to her children, and along her eight-year journey, she has built a career she loves. In Tolar’s Q&A, she talks about her passion for family, the school community, and serving others.
Check out Tolar’s Q&A here: http://bit.ly/4ofxd9a
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
Yesterday, Smithfield-Selma High hosted a Unified Basketball game against North Johnston High. Even though the competition was fierce, sportsmanship was on full display. The gymnasium was packed with supporters, teachers, and classmates from both schools! 🏀🏆
The game was also part of the celebration for SSS being named a Special Olympics Unified Champion School®. This designation recognizes that the school has demonstrated commitment to promoting social inclusion through sport.
It was an amazing afternoon of excitement, teamwork, and unity! Read more about it here: http://bit.ly/4odovbs
Congratulations to SSS on this prestigious recognition!
Join us this Wednesday, October 15th, 2025, at 2 PM for our Welcome Wednesdays session, an open-door approach to assisting individuals aspiring to become a part of the JCPS team!
Welcome Wednesdays is a hands-on, in-person opportunity for individuals to receive assistance with applications and to ask questions about the various job openings we have within the district.
See you soon!
The ceremony will be held in the Smithfield-Selma High School gymnasium. Attendees will be served a Thanksgiving-style meal in the cafeteria immediately following.
Visit our website for more information: https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/veteransday
We look forward to honoring our many veterans!
Johnston County Public Schools takes great pride in its strong collaborative relationships with local government officials, which create valuable opportunities to enhance the quality of education across the county.
During the recent Legislative Breakfast, JCPS leadership, Board of Education members, and local officials came together to discuss key topics, including the district’s academic achievements, budget forecasts, safety and security partnerships with local law enforcement agencies, and legislative matters that impact our schools daily.
These meaningful conversations play a critical role in supporting both the immediate and long-term success of the district.
#LeadingForward
JC Early College Academy and JC Career & Technical Leadership Academy will be on Fall Break from October 10th-14th!
Enjoy your break! 🍂
The alumni association expressed joy and pride as they were invited on a detailed tour of the soon-to-open Wilson's Mills High. Here are some photos from the tour of the new building. ✨
The Educators Rising National Conference brings together over 3,000 students from around the country who are interested in careers as educators. The Educators Rising organization’s vision is to eliminate the teacher shortage by reimagining educator pathways. Their mission is to inspire and grow current and rising educators to become community leaders and advocates for high-quality education.
The conference is the capstone experience for JoCo TEACH students.
Read more about this conference and the JoCo TEACH program here: http://bit.ly/4mNwevX
Join us this Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, at 2 PM for our Welcome Wednesdays session, an open-door approach to assisting individuals aspiring to become a part of the JCPS team!
Welcome Wednesdays is a hands-on, in-person opportunity for individuals to receive assistance with applications and to ask questions about the various job openings we have within the district.
See you soon!
