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 2025.
Maggie Gardner
4th Grade - Dixon Road Elementary
Respect - Understanding that all people have value
as human beings
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.
Autumn Baier
5th Grade - McGee's Crossroads Elementary
Integrity - Being honest in all things
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.
Christopher Patino Mancera
12th Grade - West Johnston High
Self-Discipline - Doing your best in all situations
Christopher Patino Mancera is an honor student at West Johnston High who shows self-discipline by always doing his best.
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.
Isabelle Phillips
5th Grade - West View Elementary
Self-Discipline - Doing your best in all situations
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.
Serenity Hodge
6th Grade - McGee's Crossroads Middle
Self-Discipline - Doing your best in all situations
Serenity Hodge is a shining example of self-discipline and positivity. She consistently demonstrates the ability to make thoughtful choices and always does the right thing, even when no one is watching.
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.