Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) honored 54 staff members for exceeding expectations, inside and outside of the classroom, at the district’s 17th annual Leading with the Heart reception on February 18, 2025. Ms. Haley Wierzbicki, affectionately known as Ms. Dub, represented CHHS.
The event, inspired by Mike Krzyzewski’s book, “Leading with the Heart,” recognizes those staff members throughout the school system who demonstrate leadership, compassion, and heart every day.
An employee from each of JCPS’ 48 schools, as well as various central services departments, was nominated by their peers, because of their steadfast dedication to their role. Nominators also noted their positive attitude and undeniable lasting impact on others. The recipients all take pride in their roles, have first-rate work ethics, and are mentors and good role models.
Honorees often volunteer for extra work duties, they volunteer in the community, and go the extra mile in their everyday roles. They are consistently reliable, respectful, determined, passionate, and generous individuals who constantly look for ways to help others.
Retired JCPS teacher, administrator, and former Johnston County Board of Education member Mrs. Terri Sessoms was the keynote speaker. “Education is truly an art and a science. The science is how we use data and strategies to continuously improve, whatever your job may be. That means teaching kids and getting kids to school on time. It’s about making sure they have a clean environment in which to learn. It’s about keeping them healthy and caring for their basic human needs,” she said.
“The art of teaching is equally as important as the science. Whether you are the custodian, the principal, or the bus driver, the people in this room practice that art every day. You see a need and reach out. The art is the heart work.” Sessoms added.
During the celebratory reception, surrounded by colleagues, friends, and family, each honoree was individually greeted by JCPS Superintendent Dr. Eric C. Bracy and Johnston County Board of Education Chair Lyn Andrews. Each recipient was presented with a commemorative 11x14 framed photo, and a commemorative Leading with the Heart pin. Recipients will be further recognized in many ways, including having a copy of each recipient’s photo placarded in the lobby of their building. The appreciation shown during the event will leave a lasting impression on the award recipients.
Congratulations again to Ms. Wiierzbicki and to all of the 2025 Leading with the Heart recipients! JCPS is grateful for our previous recipients, and the countless dedicated JCPS employees who lead with their hearts daily.