• March 31, 2023

    Good evening, Wildcats! Spring break is here. I hope you took advantage of the FFA BBQ plate sale earlier today. If you don’t have plans for this evening, please come out to West for soccer, softball, and baseball as we host DH Conley. Tomorrow, join us Saturday, April 1, at Crazy Daisy Yogurt Shop for WJHS PTSO Spirit Day.  What better way to spoil yourself on a weekend than with a sweet treat.  10% of all proceeds help support the WJHS PTSO.  Thank you for your continued support.  

    Next week while we are out for break, we celebrate School Librarian Appreciation Day and National Assistant Principal Week. We are extremely grateful for the work put in by the people represented in these groups every day. Also next week, softball will be participating in an Easter tournament at DH Conley while baseball will compete at South Johnston.

    When we return from break Tuesday, April 11, spring athletes will have pictures in the gym. Please see your coach for more information. Thursday afternoon we will celebrate Mrs. Afton Benner as West Johnston’s outstanding first-year teacher of the year at a reception at Selma Elementary School. West will also have our greenhouse plant sale Saturday, April 15, the same day as our job fair. Remember to see our horticulture classes for your plants and vegetables.

    There are many events and activities taking place throughout the week. Please stay up to date with our busy Wildcats by visiting our website and social media for game times and locations.

    I hope you enjoy a restful break with your family and friends. We look forward to seeing you back April 11.

    March 24, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! We did it. We made it through the first day of navigating the new security system as we phase in this new safety measure in Wildcat Country. I was very impressed with our students as they entered the building at the front and removed the chromebooks, laptops, eyeglass cases, umbrellas and binders from their bags to minimize delay to their entrances to the building. Today we learned a lot about what sets off the machines and what can remain in backpacks. Please continue to demonstrate patience as we learn this new process.

     

    Next week we have another busy week as we race toward spring break. Monday, tennis will compete at Southern Wayne. Tuesday, golf is at Southern Wayne Country Club while tennis hosts Harnett Central at home. Soccer, Baseball, and softball at are Wilson Hunt and the band hosts our winter post-season show and BPA meeting at 7 pm. Wednesday, we will run 1st Wednesday clubs and seniors can pick up cap and gowns in the auditorium lobby during all lunches. Track is at South Johnston and softball hosts Clayton. Thursday, students and staff can partcipate in hat day, sponsored by the PTSO. Golf is at Pine Hollow. Tennis hosts East Wake. Soccer hosts Rolesville. Friday is the end of the 3rd quarter. FFA is selling BBQ plates in conjunction with our plant sale from 10:30-5:30. Soccer, softball, and baseball host Southern Wayne at home.

     

    Johnston County Public Schools is continuing our work to gather feedback on how we can better meet our goals of improving student success.  Students and staff will participate in surveys to learn more about student needs from April 17-28.  The survey will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete.  You can learn more about the survey by visiting our website.

     

    We are asking that all of our students participate in the surveys, as their responses will provide invaluable insights into their experiences and how we can improve and adapt to their needs. If a student doesn’t feel like they have enough information to answer a question, they are able to skip the item altogether. 

     

    We are partnering with Panorama Education, to support in securely administering these surveys. You can read more about Panorama’s student privacy policy on our website. Please notify us if you would like your child to opt out of taking the surveys by emailing tamarabarbour@johnston.k12.nc.us your name, your phone number, your child’s name, and one sentence about why you are opting your child out by March 30, 2023. 

     

    It’s a beautiful night. We hope to see you at our home games this evening. Wildcats, have a great weekend.

    March 23, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats.
    Tomorrow we will begin phase 1 of our implementation of the safety systems we have at the front of the building. To help us prepare for our use of this new system, there are some things you will want to remove from your bag as you enter the front door. Please go ahead and remove any chromebook, laptop, umbrella, eyeglass case, 3-ring binder, or metal hole punch. We already know that these items set off the machines due to their current calibration. There are likely others, but these are the ones we know have set off the machines. 

    Visitors coming into the building at the front will also walk through the safety system and should leave any unnecessary items in your vehicles to avoid having to walk them back to your vehicle before entering the building. We thank you for your patience as we implement this security measure and refine our daily protocols for entering the building.

    We are excited to see the investment Johnston County Public Schools has put into this security system and appreciate your support as we continue to get used to the new security practices.
    We’ll see you tomorrow morning as we “go live” with our new system. Have a good night.

    March 17, 2023

    Good Evening, Wildcats.

     

    This is Jennifer Swartz with a look ahead at next week’s events in Wildcat Country.

     

    Monday, tennis hosts South Johnston while varsity softball competes at Harnett Central.

     

    Tuesday, softball, baseball, and soccer host SSS. The PTSO invites parents, staff, and students to meet with them in the media center at 6:00. 

     

    Wednesday will meet with 3rd Wednesday Clubs. Tennis hosts Fike. Track hosts East Wake, Fike, and Hunt. The football program welcomes rising freshmen for 8th grade football signing day at 6:30 in the cafeteria. 

     

    Thursday golf will compete at the Cardinal Club. Tennis hosts CB Aycock. Soccer will compete at CB Aycock. Chorus and Dance welcome you their 90s Concert at 7 pm in the auditorium.

     

    Friday softball and baseball compete at CB Aycock.

     

    Saturday the guard competes at the Atlantic Indoor Association South Guard Championship in Fayetteville. Track competes at Sanderson High School in Raleigh. 

     

    With so many outdoor events, please continue to check dates and starting times in case of weather changes on our website and social media. We hope you have a great weekend and we’ll see you Monday.

    March 10, 2023

    Good Evening, Wildcats.

    I have important information to share with you about changes to our school building. 

    As I am sure you are aware, the Johnston County Board of Education approved the purchase and installation of Weapons Detection Systems on all Johnston County Public Schools sites. The safety and security of all students and employees continues to be a top priority for our school system.

    We are excited to report that the Weapon Detection System has been installed on our campus. 
    In the coming weeks, our system will be active and all students, staff, and visitors to our campus will walk through the newly installed security system. We are working with the district and school staff to determine any needed changes to our carpool, student entry, and bus entrances. We will also have a weapon detection system installed in our rear entrance for students entering the campus from the bus lot in the coming weeks.

    For the first few days of implementation, administration will work closely with our School Resource Officer, district staff, and vendor representatives to ensure proper settings and installation of the detectors. If there is an alert from the system, students will be asked to step aside to determine the cause of the alert. All schools will be provided two hand-held metal detector wands, which will solely be used when the cause of an alert cannot be determined otherwise.

    Please be reminded that the primary purpose of implementing these security measures is to prevent anyone from bringing inappropriate items into the school building. We’re excited to notify you of this additional security measure provided for our school community. The cooperation from all students, visitors, and staff is greatly appreciated as we continue to make safety our top priority. 

    Progress reports go home Monday and Winter Sports Awards will take place Tuesday evening at 6 pm in the gym.  We also have a full line-up of events in athletics, CTE, and fine arts. Please check our social media and school website for specific information. 

    Remember to turn your clocks forward before you go to bed Saturday night in observance of Daylight Savings Time. We hope you have a restful weekend. Good night.

    March 6, 2023

    The ACT will be administered to ALL JUNIORS tomorrow, Tuesday, March 7. Select Seniors will be taking the WorkKeys assessment while other seniors will be in a class meeting in the auditorium with a presentation to help prepare them for their next big adventure: Adulting 

    Both the  ACT and WorkKeys are  North Carolina-mandated tests, so students must be present on this day!  No cell phones or electronics are permitted in the testing site, so please plan accordingly. 
    ALL  STUDENTS will report directly to their homerooms upon arrival at 7:15 am. Each grade level will have productive and necessary materials to work on throughout the day. All students will report to their 4th block classes following the lunches. 
    This is a REGULAR SCHOOL DAY and attendance will be counted. 
    If you have any questions contact Sue Bryant WJHS Testing Coordinator.

     

    Feb 24, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! First off, I would like to have you join me in celebrating West Johnston’s teachers as 4 of the 20 finalists for the district’s teacher of the year semi-finalists are West J teachers. This is the second time in the last 6 years that West has been represented by such a large number of teachers in this semi-final round. Congratulations go out to Colleen Bonner, Paul Bradford, Kim Drown, and Dorothy Holley. We are so proud to call you our own!

     

    Seniors, Cap and Gown pictures will be taken on campus Monday from 9 -12 in the auditorium. Please look at your senior homeroom information in google and on social media. If you have questions, email Mrs. Kelly. The company will have cap and gowns for your use for these pictures. Monday afternoon, baseball will play at Harnett Central and tennis will be at Fike.

     

    Tuesday, golf will play in Wilson, FFA has their spring in-service, baseball hosts Southern Nash, softball will play at Corinth Holders, and the Band Parents will hold a board meeting at 6:30 in the band room.

     

    Wednesday is 1st Wednesday clubs, tennis hosts Southern Wayne, and track competes at SSS.

     

    Thursday, golf is at Reedy Creek and soccer is at Clayton. 

     

    Friday, softball hosts Cleveland at home while baseball travels to Cleveland to play.

     

    Saturday the Wildcats are still going strong as the Guard competes at Green Level, band members travel to Greensboro for the all-state auditions, JROTC Raiders compete in a drill competition at Lee County High School, and FBLA hosts the annual Mr. West J competition. You don’t want to miss this show! See social media for more information.

    We are moving along in this second semester. Remember to check power school to maintain an idea of where your child is performing in class as well as for attendance information. If you don’t have access to PowerSchool, please contact student services for help. Remember that your child’s teacher is always your first point of contact for all questions and concerns and would appreciate hearing from you to partner with you for your student’s success. Have a great weekend. We’ll see you Monday.

    Feb 17, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! If you are still planning your evening, please join us for tonight’s band concert in the auditorium at 7 pm. 

    Registration season is upon us. Starting on Feb 20, counselors will be visiting first period classes to help students finalize and submit their course requests for next school year. Students began working on career exploration and course planning in November, but If your child has not made their course selections for next school year in Xello, they will need to do so by Monday. Instructions for selecting courses can be found under the Pre-Registration Assignment in each grade-level Google classroom.

    Monday is an early release for all students at 12:15. All students will need to leave campus at dismissal because staff will be engaging in professional development activities.

    Tuesday progress reports go home. Tuesday night at 6 pm, please join us at the PTSO meeting in the media center. This opportunity is open to all parents, students, and staff to come together to support our entire Wildcat community. 

    Wednesday, baseball will scrimmage with Willow Springs.

    Thursday athletes and their families will be here for a spring sports meeting at 6:30 pm.

    Friday and Saturday, West Johnston’s Colorguard has the Charlotte WGI competition.

    Saturday, soccer has the soccer jamboree at Heritage High School. JROTC Raiders will complete at North Brunswick High School and band hosts Winterfest at West Johnston.

    We hope to see you tonight for some good music. Have a great weekend.

    Feb 10, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! If you are going to be in the area tonight or tomorrow, you don’t want to miss the Fine Arts production of Mama Mia. Tickets can be purchased at the door tonight or tomorrow. Evening shows are at 7 pm. Saturday’s matinee is at 2 pm. The band will also hosting a chicken and pastry dinner. Eat in or take out. You have two great opportunities to feed your stomach and your soul. Don’t miss it!

    Monday, the varsity girls’ basketball team competes in the first round of playoffs at Hunt HS.

    Tuesday, West will conduct ASVAB testing for those who signed up and Tuesday night West will host South Johnston boys’ varsity for the first round of the playoffs.

    Wednesday is 3rd clubs, School Resource Officer Day, and we’ll kick off course registration in homerooms.

    Thursday, there will be an interest meeting for the Miss West Johnston pageant in room 236 after school. Wrestling advances to the state championship. 

    Friday West Johnston hosts the midwinter band concert in the auditorium at 7 pm.

    Satruday the Winter Guard will compete at Apex Friendship HS. Wrestling is competing. Girls’ soccer will scrimmage at Gillette Fields in Wilson. Baseball scrimmages at Wakefield HS.

    All next week is Love the Bus Week. This is a great opportunity to thank our bus drivers for getting us to and from school safely each day. Please remember to thank your bus drivers for the important jobs they do daily.

    We hope to see you tonight, whether you’re at the #Teal Out supporting our athletes at South Johnston or at Mama Mia, supporting fine arts. There’s something for everyone at West J. Have a great weekend.

    Feb 3, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! Our new semester is underway and report cards will be visible on the PowerSchool platform Monday, February 6. Remember that we do not print report cards unless you make a request to have it printed. If you need a printed copy of your child’s report card, please contact Student Services. 

    Tuesday Basketball will play at Hunt High School. 

    Wednesday we will meet with 2nd Wednesday clubs. 

    Thursday our Fine Arts programs open musical Mama Mia at 7 pm. Please see social media for ticket information. 

    Friday, HOSA will host a blood drive and we have another showing of Mama Mia at 7 pm.

    Saturday, wrestling competes in East Regionals, swim competes for states, the band hosts a chicken and pastry dinner fundraiser in the cafeteria, and Mama Mia closes its run with performances at 2 pm and 7 pm.

    For tonight, we are sending swim off for regionals at the Triangle Aquatic Center and hosting CB Aycock in basketball with a special pink-out theme. Wildcats, have a great weekend and we’ll see you Monday.

    Jan 29, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats. Since we ended the first semester Friday with our final exams, we have two workdays Monday and Tuesday as staff prepare for the new semester. All students will enter the building and report to homeroom Wednesday morning for a brief homeroom and will receive a printed copy of their schedules from their homeroom teachers before using their club passes to move to their 1st Wednesday clubs. Please refer to the bell schedule listed on our social media. Wednesday is the only day we will have homeroom. Thursday we will be back on our regular schedule to maximize instructional time in all classes.

    Congratulations to our West J swim team, named conference champions after last week’s meet. Congratulations to Jacob Hoffman who was named Conference Swimmer of the Year!

    Tomorrow night West Johnston will celebrate our mid-year graduates in a ceremony in the auditorium. Congratulations to each of you who is participating in this winter graduation ceremony. We are proud of you and the work you have put into completing your high school education and we are excited to see what the future holds for you as you leave West Johnston.

    We still have many teams whose winter season is still going strong. Please visit our website for games, locations, and times of all our events.

    Wildcats, enjoy your few days off and we’ll see you Wednesday.

    Jan 20, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! 

    Next week we will begin our exams to wrap up the first semester. If you haven’t already done so, please visit our website to view the full schedule. We also have printed copies in the front office.

     

    We have been sharing an important change with you about student checkout. Beginning with exams January 23, students will need to bring in notes for early dismissal or for appointments in the morning. We will no longer accept emailed notes to leave. Parents and guardians will need to send notes with their students in the morning or must sign them out in person. 

     

    Students will not have access to any phones, smartwatches, or other communication devices during testing to ensure test security and to maintain appropriate bandwidth to carry out our state tests. Students who come to school but are not testing will not be allowed to use their devices and must keep them apart from them while they are on campus except during lunch. 

     

    We will begin testing each day as close to 7:15 as possible. Students who submit notes to their teachers will receive an exit slip that will be shown to staff when we call an end to each testing session. We will dismiss students with notes each day following the end of the testing session but not before it.  If you have any questions, please call the school at (919) 934-7333. 

     

    Finally, due to the need to make testing a priority, all school events will end by 6 pm each day to ensure that students have ample time to study to be prepared for their final exams the next day. We are looking forward to seeing the strong progress you have made in your courses this semester as we see the testing results come in. Enjoy your weekend, Wildcats, and we’ll see you Monday.

    January 13, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! Remember that tonight our Wildcat wrestlers will compete at Corinth Holders High School while basketball hosts Hunt High School at home and Teal Terror asks that you dress up for tonight’s student-voted theme: Adam Sandler night. What’s that? Baseball caps turned backward, baggy shirts, t-shirts, and sweats. 

     

    Remember that Monday we will not be in school in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

     

    When we are back on campus Tuesday, basketball will host South Johnston and our PTSO will meet in the media center at 6 pm. We are also holding our first Chemistry night at 7 pm in the media center. Please come for our PTSO meeting and stay for Chemistry night. We hope that booking these events on the same night we will see many of you at both events.

     

    Wednesday, indoor track will compete at South Johnston, wrestling will compete at Clayton, and our athletic booster club invites all of you to join them in Student Services at 6 pm.

     

    Thursday, Swim will compete at SRAC.

     

    Friday, basketball will compete at Fike and Saturday wrestling will compete at Southern Wayne.

     

    Last weekend I began sharing an important change that I need to make you aware of is that starting at exams on January 23, students will need to bring in notes for early dismissal or for appointments in the morning. We will no longer accept emailed notes to leave. Parents and guardians will need to send notes with their students in the morning or must sign them out in person. 

     

    As we finish the semester in good standing with attendance and academics, please remember that your teacher is your first point of contact with any questions or concerns. If you are having trouble with PowerSchool, we have staff who can help you so that you can always have access to your child’s grades, completed assignments, and attendance.

     

    Wildcats, we’re looking forward to seeing those outfits tonight in the bleachers. Have a good weekend.

    January 6, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! We hope to see you at tonight’s basketball games at SSS. We also have many activities taking place next week. One important change that I need to make you aware of is that starting at exams on January 23, students will need to bring in notes for early dismissal or for appointments in the morning. We will no longer accept emailed notes to leave. Parents and guardians will need to send notes with their students in the morning or must sign them out in person.
     
    Monday, winter athletes will take individual and team sports pictures in the gym during school. Remember to bring your uniforms for the pictures. See your coach for information for your parents.
     
    Tuesday, basketball will be at CB Aycock. 
     
    Wednesday, track will host East Wake and wrestling will compete at South Johnston. 
     
    Thursday, Poetry Out Loud contestants from across the district will compete at the AG Glenn building at 7 pm while aspiring winter guard and middle school band members are invited with their parents to hear about these programs from 7 to 8 pm in the band room at West Johnston. 
     
    Friday, wrestling will compete at Corinth Holders while basketball hosts Hunt High School.
     
    Saturday, our Wildcats continue their competition at Corinth Holders High School and JROTC will participate in the Community Service Warmth for Wake. 
     
    Make sure you are getting all assignments in on time and that you are doing your best every day to finish the semester strong. Have a great weekend.

    January 2, 2023

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! We hope you all have enjoyed a wonderful time with family and friends through the holiday season. We jump back into our school routine tomorrow as we continue the first semester and finish strong as we move toward final exams.

     

    We want to give a shout-out and thanks to Mrs. Amber Ferguson and her team of students, staff, community volunteers, and local businesses who work in and support our on-site food pantry at West Johnston High School. She and her team were on campus during the holiday break to prepare food boxes to help make the holiday brighter for some families. The West Johnston food pantry operates 52 weeks of the year and only shut down for 2 weeks, even during the initial days of the COVID-19 closures in 2020. We are blessed to have so many people who come together to serve others who need support from food insecurity in our community. If you are interested in serving in this important service or would like to make a donation, you can contact Amber Ferguson through our West Johnston main office.

     

    Our wrestlers and basketball teams continued to play through the holiday break and are looking forward to being back in the gym at West J in front of our own Teal Terror as we continue with the regular season. Please check out our social media for themes at home and away. We are grateful to our supporters who bring a great deal of energy to our match-ups!

     

    Get to bed early because it's going to be a challenge for many to wake to an alarm after a great holiday rest. Wildcats, we'll see you tomorrow!

    December 16, 2022

    Good afternoon, Wildcats!  While we closed our office this afternoon and will not re-open until January 3, we still have some activities taking place through the holiday break.  We have basketball tonight at home with our Christmas Out against Southern Wayne High School. We hope to see you in the bleachers cheering on our Wildcats! We also have wrestling tomorrow and Saturday at Knightdale High School.
    Monday, basketball will travel to Princeton.

    We hope that you are able to take time to enjoy family and friends during the holiday break. We wish for you and yours peace of the season and we look forward to seeing you back at school January 3 when we open in the new year. Have a safe and restful holiday break and a happy new year, Wildcats.

    December 9, 2022

    Good afternoon, Wildcats! If you didn't attend last night's performance of 2 Sizes Too Small, you have one more opportunity tonight at 7 pm. The students played to a packed house and we are looking forward to a great show again tonight with incredible performances by our Wildcat students and staff.

    We are heading into our final week of school before the holiday break. Please get your outfits ready for our final spirit days. Monday is dress as your favorite toy. Tuesday is Grinch today. Dress up as the Grinch or someone from Whoovile. Wednesday is Winter Wonderland. Wear white and blue. Thursday is dress as your holiday best.

    Remember that the book fair is taking place right now and still has many great books and accessories for purchase.

    Monday indoor track is hosting SSS, CB Aycock, and Southern Wayne. PTSO is meeting in the media center at 6:00 pm. Please join us to help support our entire school community.

    Tuesday, Basketball will host Fike and Kara Emery will be recognized at the Board of Education meeting for her grant for the media center.

    Wednesday, indoor track will compete at South Johnston and the cheerleaders will compete at Clayton High School.

    Thursday, the seniors will enjoy a light breakfast provided by the senior parents before watching a special performance of the the Fine Arts Christmas Show 2 Sizes Too Small. School will dismiss early at 12:15. Swim will compete Thursday night at SRAC.

    Friday is a teacher workday. Basketball will host Southern Wayne and Wrestling will be at Knightdale.

    We will continue to see our athletes compete through the holiday break. Please check the school website for additional game information.  We hope you all enjoy a wonderful time with family and friends through the holiday season. Be safe and we’ll see you back January 3, 2023.

    December 2, 2022

    Good afternoon, Wildcats!  We have officially entered the holiday season as we kick off things with the Benson parade tonight at 6:30. Mrs. Aycock and Mrs. Penny have organized a countdown with opportunities to dress in festive ways from Monday through December 15. Please check out our social media to organize your holiday spiritwear.

     

    Our Whoobilation Vendor Fair is tomorrow from 8 am to 1 pm in the gym. Please come out to support our local vendors and the FFA alumni association. Our PTSO will even have a gift wrapping station so you can bring your purchases home already wrapped and ready to put under your tree.

     

    Tuesday basketball plays at CHHS. Wednesday we will kick off our bookfair in the media center. Indoor track has a meet with SSS. JV basketball plays Gray’s Creek at home while Varsity plays at Gray’s Creek. Wrestling is at East Wake. Thursday and Friday we have the Fine Arts Christmas Collaborative at 7 pm in the auditorium. Friday will also see basketball against CvHS and the swim team in Goldsboro. Saturday the JROTC Raiders will compete at Southern Lee HS, wrestling will compete at Enloe, the cheerleaders will compete at CB Aycock, and Swim will compete in Smithfield.

     

    While we are excited to share in all the events that bring us together, our Student Government recognizes that this can also be a difficult season when we consider those who are no longer with us. Please visit the Remembrance Tree in the front lobby and write the name of a loved one on a ribbon and place in on the tree to honor their memory. Make it a great weekend, Wildcats. We’ll see you Monday.

    November 18, 2022

    Good afternoon, Wildcats!  For any of you who are a part of afternoon carpool, I need your help. We only use ONE lane in the afternoon for carpool on the far right side of the campus because we have to use the left lane to release students from our parking lots. We have recently experienced drivers using the left hand lane and it is creating a dangerous situation for our campus. Please note there is a sign that reflects that we only use two lanes in the morning. Thank you for your help with this protocol.

    We’d like to give a shout-out to all the Wildcat groups who came together today to celebrate our Veterans as a part of the collaborative project in Mrs. Bonner and Mr. Chapman’s world history classes. Thank you to the Veterans who visited our school and shared your time and service experiences with our students. It was an incredibly meaningful and moving experience all day long.

    We have a short week next week as we prepare for Thanksgiving break. Monday we have JV girls basketball at CvHS at 4:30. Tuesday Wrestling hosts Garner at 6:00 pm and our All-County band students will shine in the concert at CvHS at 6:30 pm.

    We will be out Wednesday through Friday for our Thanksgiving break. Have a great weekend, Wildcats. We’ll see you Monday.

    November 14, 2022

    This Wednesday, Nov. 16 WJHS will be holding a school-wide assessment and activity day. All students will be reporting to their homerooms upon arrival at school where they will receive instruction about the day's activities.
    Please understand that this is considered a regular school day and attendance is expected.

    Freshmen will be accessing the Xello platform to begin the registration process for next year's classes.

    Sophomores will take the PreACT. This assessment is required by NCDPI for all 10th-grade students across North Carolina. This assessment measures what students have learned in their courses and helps educators identify the information that students still need to learn to succeed in college or careers.

    Juniors will participate in a MockACT in preparation for the Required ACT in March.

    Select seniors, who have been identified as CTE concentrators, will be participating in the WorkKeys assessments which is a tool used by many companies to measure readiness for careers in the workforce.
    The remaining Seniors will complete senior activities and graduation plans using the Xello platform.

    If you have questions, please contact your child's counselor, Testing Coordinator Sue Bryant, or Career Development Coordinator Amanda Fisher.

    November 13, 2022

    Good afternoon, Wildcats. As we look at the week ahead we want to remind you that tomorrow night we will recognize our fall athletic teams at our awards ceremony which will begin with everyone together at 6:30 pm in the main gym. Our re-scheduled band show will also be taking place tomorrow night on the football field at 7:30 pm.

    Tuesday evening, please join us in the media center at 6 pm to be a part of our growing Parent Teacher Student Organization. This group has already been active at many events around Wildcat Country and we are hoping to count on your support as we work together as a school community for the benefit of all our Wildcats! West is also proud to have many members in the All-County Chorus. The audition-based group will perform at Cleveland High School at 7 pm.

    Wednesday all students will report to homeroom first thing in the morning as we restructure our day for the required PreACT for all sophomores and engage 9th, 11th, and 12th grade students in additional test prep activities. For sophomores, you should bring your own calculator and no electronic devices are allowed during testing. This does include smart watches and fitness bands. You will report directly to your homeroom as you arrive on campus. Plan to be present. Any absence will count toward your attendance.

    All other students will be engaged in test prep as we provide instruction to help students be successful with platforms such as Xello, ACT, and WorkKeys. Juniors should also bring a calculator with you for your test prep. Attendance for all students will count for the hours that you are normally scheduled to be in class. If you have questions about your schedule, contact your counselor.

    We are also starting to see our first games of the winter sports season. Wrestling is on the schedule as we host CvHS Wednesday at 6 pm. Thursday Swim has a meet at SRAC at 6 pm. Saturday, the JROTC Raiders compete at Overhills HS and Wrestling has a meet at Southern Wayne HS.

    Thursday is substitute appreciation day with an opportunity to show some love to all the great folks who have served our school community through COVID and the recent flu. Friday HOSA is sponsoring a blood drive at West J from 7 am to 1 pm. Please contact Mrs. Feola and Mrs. Stephenson if you can volunteer!

    There’s lots going on in Wildcat Country. Let’s make it a great week!

    Nov 6, 2022

    Good afternoon, Wildcats. We have an update to our week’s schedule that I needed to contact you about. The student-parent meeting for winter athletics will be Thursday, November 10 at 6:30 in the main gym.

     

    Just while I’m here, remember that report cards will be visible in PowerSchool tomorrow for the first quarter grades. Tuesday is a workday for voting and West Johnston’s parking lot is one of the items on the bond referendum. Wednesday is the last day for pictures and retakes for both seniors and underclassmen. Thursday is the zoo trip for seniors. And Friday we will be out of school in observance of Veterans Day.

     

    Remember to set all your clocks back and we’ll see you tomorrow.

    Nov 4, 2022

     

    Good evening, Wildcats! West Johnston is very excited to finally be able to welcome you to campus on Saturday evening from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. for the 2022 Homecoming Dance. 

     

    Please park in front of the auditorium or in the junior parking lot and enter the dance through the auditorium lobby. To ensure you have the opportunity to make your grand entrance, there will not be any other entry points. You must enter through the auditorium lobby. 

     

    Parents who are dropping off should use the carpool line, drop their student and move through so traffic is not blocked.

     

    Students who have purchased tickets already will be checked in.  Students wishing to purchase a ticket may do so for $15 at the door. 

     

    For student safety,  once students have checked in the dance they will not be able to return to their cars until they are ready to leave for the evening.  If they choose to leave prior to the ending of the dance, they will not be readmitted. 

     

    The PTSO will have pizza, donuts,  chips, candy and drinks for sale at the auditorium concession stand. In addition,  Celtic Creamery will have ice cream for sale as well. So plan to have dinner and snacks once on campus.  We look forward to seeing all of our incredible Wildcats on Saturday!

     

    Monday we will host a winter sports parent meeting in the gym at 6:30 pm. Tuesday is a teacher workday due to elections. Wednesday, Tumbleston Photography will return for picture retakes and makeups for both seniors and underclassmen. Thursday is the senior trip to the zoo. Update: The student-parent meeting for winter athletics will be Thursday, November 10 at 6:30 in the main gym. Friday school will be closed in observance of the Veterans Day holiday. Saturday JROTC will compete in a drill competition and the band will host its House of Raeford Chicken sale from 8-12 pm.  Remember to turn your clocks back this Saturday night when you go to bed as Daylight Saving’s Time ends Sunday, November 6. Have a great weekend and we’ll see you Monday.

    October 31, 2022

     

    Good evening, Wildcats! Our PTSO has organized a spirit fundraiser with the help of JTops BBQ on Cleveland School Road. Please support this opportunity by grabbing lunch or dinner at JTops BBQ tomorrow, November 1 at 8948 Cleveland School Rd from 11 am to 8 pm. JTops is going to donate 10% of all sales to our West J Parent Teacher Student Organization.  
     
    We would love to have you join us in membership. If you would like to join the PTSO please email us at westjohnstonPTSO@gmail.com
     
    Enjoy a safe Halloween. We’ll see you tomorrow.

     

    October 28, 2022

     

    Good evening, Wildcats! We hope to see you tonight for our Pink-Out as we recognize and celebrate our seniors in band, dance, cheer, and football before we take on the Trojans of South Johnston High School. We will begin senior celebrations for cheer and football beginning around 6:15 and 6:30 this evening. We will celebrate our senior dancers and band members at halftime.

     

    Sunday afternoon, please join us for our Halloween movie “Little Shop of Horrors,” from 4-6 pm, organized by the junior SGA and supported by our PTSO. While admission is free, snacks can be purchased.

     

    Remember there is no school for students Monday as we have a workday for teacher professional development and closeout of grades from the first quarter. Tuesday night, come out to the football stadium to see our band perform at 7 pm. Continue to watch our website and social media for updates on conference meets and playoffs as our Wildcat student-athletes continue to advance in their season.

     

    We are beginning tryouts for winter sports. Please visit our website and social media for specific information for tryouts in basketball, swimming, wrestling, and cheer. Indoor track will not start until mid-November. We hope to see you tonight to celebrate our seniors while we cheer on our football team. Have a great weekend.

     

    October 25, 2022

     

    This is Jennifer Swartz, Principal of West Johnston High School calling with an announcement pertaining to the 2022 JCPS school bond referendum. 

     

    Please note that there is a school bond referendum on this year’s ballot and I urge each of you to exercise your right to vote. Early voting began on Thursday, October 20, 2022, and will run through election day, which is Tuesday, November 8, 2022. 

    Thank you!

     

    October 24, 2022

    Good evening, Wildcats. This is West Johnston principal Jennifer Swartz with a message about Xello. X-E-L-L-O. Xello is an online program your child is using in school to help them prepare for their future. It offers activities from kindergarten to the end of high school to help students build self-knowledge, explore options, create plans, and develop skills needed to thrive in the world of work.

    While it’s important for students to take ownership in planning their future, the caring adults in their lives also play an essential supporting role. In the coming weeks, you will receive an email from Xello asking you to claim your Xello Family Account. You can use your Xello Family account to see your child’s future-readiness work and discuss and support their future goals and plans. To ensure you receive the email, please make sure you have a correct email address in PowerSchool. Please contact your school’s data manager if you need to make changes to your information in PowerSchool.
     
    Thank you and have a great night.

    October 21, 2022

    Good evening, Wildcats! We have many celebrations to share with you as we close out the week. Golf team member Jenna Underwood placed 5th overall in the conference championship. In cross county,  the women placed 2nd in the conference and the men scored a perfect score by taking the top 5 places in the conference meet, making the Wildcats Conference Champs! Volleyball placed 2nd in the conference and runner-up in the Quad County Conference Tournament. 

     

    Please join us tonight for our band concert in the auditorium at 7 pm. We are also hosting a first-round volleyball match tomorrow in the gym at 1 pm. Tickets will be available for purchase through the Ticket Spicket app. Booster passes will not be accepted at this game since it is a state tournament game. 

     

    Next week is Red Ribbon Week. West Johnston is partnering with the JoCo Angels to bring greater awareness to decision making. Monday is White-Out for JoCo Angels. Tuesday, clubs are being asked to make their best TikTok supporting JoCo Angels, Wednesday is focused on school spirit, Thursday is Super Hero day, and Friday we are asking everyone to wear purple for Overdose Awareness.

     

    In addition to our full slate of events on the calendar, we will have underclassman pictures Tuesday and a chorus concert Tuesday night at 7 pm. We have a dance concert Thursday night at 7 pm. Football, cheerleading, dance, and band will celebrate senior night at Friday night’s PINK OUT game against South Johnston. Senior activities will begin around 6:15 pm. Cross country travels to Northeast Creek Park for regionals on Saturday. Our Raider/Drill Team will compete at Cleveland High School Saturday and join us Sunday at 4 pm for the movie Little Shop of Horrors in the auditorium.

     

    It’s another busy week in Wildcat Country. We have many athletes competing in state playoffs. Please follow the calendar of events as we update the times, dates, and locations for these competitions. We hope you have a great weekend. We’ll see you Monday.

    October 17, 2022

    Good evening, Wildcats! This is Jennifer Swartz calling with a few updates from our calendar for this week. The Senior Gala meeting listed on this week’s activities is an error. This event was duplicated from last month’s committee meeting. Also, the PTSO meeting listed for Wednesday is actually taking place tomorrow evening at 6:00 pm.

     

    Remember that this is College Week! Our counseling team has put together several activities to help engage students and support them in completing their college applications. This week is not just geared to students who are planning to attend 4-year universities, there is a focus on completing the Residency Determination forms and applications to earn associate degrees. Plan to wear your college apparel all week to help bring attention to this exciting time!

     

    Sorry for the calendar errors and we hope to see you tomorrow night for our PTSO meeting!

    October 14, 2022

    Good evening, Wildcats! Today is the final day to complete the fall Panorama survey. Students and staff, please take a few minutes to complete the survey if you have not already done so.

    Next week is College Week! Our counseling team has put together several activities to help engage students and support them in completing their college applications. This week is not just geared to students who are planning to attend 4-year universities, there is a focus on completing the Residency Determination forms and applications to earn associate degrees. Plan to wear your college apparel all week to help bring attention to this exciting time!

    Parents, we need your help. We were not able to open the concession stand at last night’s volleyball games due to a lack of volunteers. Please visit the West J booster page to help sign up. Parents of student-athletes, without your support, there will be no concession stand. 

    Wednesday is a busy afternoon as we host the parents of the senior gala in student services at 4 pm, our new PTSO at 5:30 in student services, and an EC/OCS parent information night in the media center hosted by central office at 5:00 and 5:30 to learn about career exposure classes, targeted workshops, interview resume and preparation, paid work experiences and job shadow opportunities for EC/OCS students.

    Thursday, students will have refresher training on the Say Something app during 3rd block West Success.

    Friday we will host a free band concert in the auditorium at 7 pm. In addition to all of our events, we have many teams and student athletes competing in regional and conference competitions in golf, volleyball, tennis, and gymnastics. Please continue to check our website and social media as the sports brackets are updated and games are scheduled. Congratulations to all of our athletes and teams on your advancement. Thank you for a great week. We’ll see you Monday!

     

    October 7, 2022

    Good evening, Wildcats. We have enjoyed a great week of homecoming activities as we warmed up to tonight’s big game as our Wildcats host the Spartans of SSS for our homecoming game. Please come out tonight to support our students as they compete on the field, play in the stands, and shine on the homecoming court.

    The counselors will be hosting an RDS/FAFSA Day to assist with the parent side of the college application process. Any parent that would like assistance with completing Residency Determination or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid can come to West Johnston on Monday, October 10, between the hours of 7:30am - 4pm. Please check our website for required documents that will be needed to complete these applications.

    We have a full week of activities planned for next week. Please visit our school’s website to see updated information on games and competitions. We will be recognizing two senior groups next week. Volleyball will celebrate senior night Tuesday, Oct 11 in their game against Hunt and soccer will celebrate seniors Wednesday night before their game against East Wake. JROTC will compete in the Clayton Ironman competition Saturday and the gymnastics team will compete at Elements in Clayton on Saturday as well.

    Students who signed up to take the PSAT should be ready to take it Wednesday morning at West Johnston. If you have any questions, please see Mrs. Bryant in Student Services.

    We hope you have a great weekend. We hope to see you tonight!

    Oct 2

    Good evening, Wildcats. I hope that you and your loved ones fared well during the recent storm that kept us out of school Friday. While we are not a coastal community, many of you have first-hand memories of the devastation that such a storm brings after having experienced Fran, Floyd, and Matthew in our area. 

     

    As we look at the week ahead, we are excited to celebrate homecoming week at West Johnston! Please know that the dance set to kick off the week has been rescheduled for November 5. Tickets are still available online. You can visit our website for more information.

     

    Monday is White Lie Day. Wear a white t-shirt with a school appropriate lie written on it.

    Tuesday is pajama day. Come back on campus Tuesday night. We are hosting our homecoming parade on campus this year with food trucks at 6 pm.

    Wednesday is anything but a book bag day. Your item cannot disrupt school activity or damage floors. Items that create a problem will be removed. We are excited to shake things up this year with an event that can’t be rained out. We have a co-ed volleyball game at 6 pm in the gym with competition between the classes.

    Thursday we’re dressing as BBQ dads and soccer moms.

    Friday is our homecoming game so we will be looking to see all our Wildcats in teal Friday. We will be running a different schedule to make time for our pep rally at 1 pm.

     

    In addition to our week of homecoming activities, we have a full line up of athletics events and competitions. Please visit our website to see updates on all our events. 

     

    The week continues Saturday, October 8, as the West J band hosts the Compass Classic on campus. There’s so much going on and we are looking forward to a fantastic week ahead! Let’s get ready to rock homecoming!

    Sept 23--Covid

    Hello. This is Jennifer Swartz, principal at West Johnston High School with important information about practices and procedures in regards to COVID-19.

    In response to the increased number of positive COVID-19 cases which could be deemed a cluster on our campus, and out of an abundance of caution, we would like to share with you the following information. 

    The North Carolina Department of Public Health determines a cluster in a non-congregate living setting to be:

    A minimum of five laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 within 14 days with evidence of epidemiologic linkage between cases, OR
    15 or more laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 within 14 days associated with the same setting or facility in the absence of specific information about epidemiologic linkage

    To help mitigate the spread of Covid-19 while a cluster of cases exist, the local Health Department recommends that all students, staff, and visitors wear face coverings while indoors and less than 6ft away from others. Cluster status is considered a high or substantial level of transmission within a facility.

    Please be reminded that these recommendations are not mandatory and are provided for those who choose to participate. 

    We share guidance from health officials in an attempt to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, as it is our goal to keep our students, staff, and community members safe while in our school. Thank you for doing your part to keep our community safe and healthy.

    Sept 23, 2022

    Good evening, Wildcats! As we look forward to next week, we want to direct you to our school website and social media for information regarding meetings, competitions, and athletic events.

     

    Graduate Services will be presenting Cap and Gown ordering information to seniors on September 28th at 8:45 am in the auditorium.  Please mark your calendar and plan to attend this important meeting as you will receive the information packet to order your cap and gown, graduation announcements and other graduation accessories.

     

    Attention Juniors and Seniors!! Herff Jones will be here on Wednesday, September 28 th to take class ring orders during all lunches and after-school for the Parents’ Session from 2:15-6:30 PM. Please remember your down payment. The balance will not be due until your ring is delivered to you. Make your check or money order payable to Herff Jones.  Extra ring packets can be picked up from the main office.

     

    Senior Parents - West Johnston will be hosting a virtual college & scholarship information session Thursday, Sept 29 from 6:30-7:30pm. We know the college application process can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Counselors will walk students and parents through what to expect during the application process and address some of the most common questions and concerns that we get about scholarships. All seniors received the link to the virtual session via email, but parents who would like the link as well can visit the school website. If you have any questions, please reach out to your child's counselor.

     

    We will be kicking off homecoming week next Saturday, October 1, with our annual homecoming dance. Tickets are on sale now for $10 but will go up to $15 September 29. You can purchase your ticket online at bit.ly/wjhsosp.

     

    We hope to see you tonight at West Johnston in your brightest neon colors to add your voice to cheer on our Wildcats! Remember to support all our programs tomorrow as they march in the Mule Days parade. Have a great weekend!

    Sept 16, 2022

    Good evening, Wildcats! As we look forward to next week, we want to direct you to our school website and social media for a complete list of competitions and events.

     

    Today we hit our 3-week check-in for the 1st quarter. While progress reports aren’t sent home on paper, you should log in to your child’s PowerSchool account to see current progress of their work and attendance so far this year. If you have any questions about either of these areas, please contact your child’s teachers for more information.  All teachers offer tutoring for their classes. If your child is not demonstrating success where you know they can, please make plans with the teacher for them to stay after school for tutoring assistance.

     

    If you are not able to access PowerSchool, please contact our student services office to help you sign up for an account. If you need a progress report printed, please contact your child’s teachers.

    Over the next several weeks, students and teachers will participate in surveys so that we can better support all of our stakeholders. In order to learn more about your students' needs, we will be asking for your student’s feedback via an online survey.  We are partnering with Panorama Education, to support us in securely administering these surveys. You can read more about Panorama’s student privacy policy on our website. Today is the deadline for opting your child out of the survey. Please notify us if you would like your child to opt out of taking the surveys by emailing tamarabarbour@johnston.k12.nc.us your name, your phone number, your child’s name, and one sentence about why you are opting your child out. 

     

    Senior parents who are organizing the parent-organized senior gala are meeting in the media center this Monday, Sept 19 from 4 - 5 pm. If you would like to participate, please join them Monday. 

     

    We are hosting a meeting at 5:30 pm in the media center Monday, Sept 19 for parents interested in helping us form a PTO at West Johnston. We look forward to seeing you as we create the first PTO at West in 19 years.

     

    Finally, we have a workday this Friday, Sept 23, but we will still have a home football game that night. Mark your calendar for a big week ahead and we’ll see you Monday.

    Sept 13, 2022

    Hello, Wildcats!

    This is Jennifer Swartz with an update about student absences related to COVID-19. If your student has to miss school because they are positive with COVID-19, please send in proof of a medical test result or a picture of your positive home test that includes the name and date of birth of your student to our attendance secretary Mrs. Shirley Baker by email at wjhsattendance@johnston.k12.nc.us. This information will allow us to code your student’s absent days appropriately.  Your student can receive up to five days of isolation after a positive test.  

    If your student tests positive a second time within a 90-day period, formal test results from a medical professional are required for your student’s absences to be excused due to isolation.

    Sept 9, 2022

    Good evening, Wildcats! As we look forward to next week, we want to direct you to our school website and social media for a complete list of competitions and events.

     

    The PSAT will be given at West Johnston on Wednesday October 12, 2022 at 7:15 am.The deadline to sign up and pay for the PSAT is Monday. Any student wishing to take the PSAT MUST REGISTER and pay the $18 fee (cash or check) by Monday, September 12. Unfortunately, online payment is not an option at this time for us. Registration forms have been provided in homeroom and in Student Services. Remember that if you are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity that you register with Mrs. Bryant in Student Services no later than this Monday, September 12. 

     

    Senior parents, many of you have or will receive a Deficiency Notice this week for your senior concerning the meningococcal vaccine. Our nurse has put together your child's shot record and a copy of the Johnston County Health Department's schedule for vaccine clinics if an appointment to get the vaccine is needed. They will also have appointments available on Tuesdays & Thursdays. Please go online to register and make sure to take your vaccine record with you if going to a clinic. Changes in the North Carolina Immunization Law require all children entering 12th grade to receive this vaccine. Failure to obtain this vaccine may result in dismissal from school. Thank you for your attention to this matter and we are looking forward to a great senior year!

     

    Over the next several weeks, students and teachers will participate in surveys so that we can better support all of our stakeholders. In order to learn more about your students' needs we will be asking for your student’s feedback via an online survey that will begin on October 3rd and will remain open for students through October 14th.  The survey will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete.  Please visit our school website to learn more about the Student surveys we will be administering this Fall.

     

    We are partnering with Panorama Education, to support in securely administering these surveys. You can read more about Panorama’s student privacy policy on our website. Please notify us if you would like your child to opt out of taking the surveys by emailing tamarabarbour@johnston.k12.nc.us your name, your phone number, your child’s name, and one sentence about why you are opting your child out by September 16, 2022.

     

    We hope you have a great weekend. We’ll see you Monday.