A huge shout out to Dr. Schnavia De Gourville, 8th grade science teacher at Innovation Academy at South Campus! She is our Certified Employee of the Month for May!
Dr. Shnavia De Gourville had plans to pursue an engineering degree in college. Following a School of Education presentation, she realized quickly that she wanted a career in which she could make a difference everyday and have fun doing it.
She wants to continue encouraging her students to become their best selves and provide moments where they can celebrate each other through success and stumbles.
Read more in her Spotlight Q&A: https://bit.ly/4dbjgXk
The Purple Star designation is awarded to schools that demonstrate military-friendly practices and a commitment to military students and families. This year, JCPS had the following schools receive the Purple Star Award Designation: Benson Middle, Clayton High, Cleveland High, Corinth-Holders Elementary, Corinth Holders High, Dixon Road Elementary, Four Oaks Elementary, McGee's Crossroads Elementary, Meadow School, Pine Level Elementary, Polenta Elementary, Princeton Elementary, Princeton Middle/High, Riverwood Middle, Smithfield-Selma High, South Johnston High, South Smithfield Elementary, Swift Creek Elementary, Swift Creek Middle, West Clayton Elementary, West Johnston High, and West View Elementary.
These incredible students are heading off to college to become the next generation of JCPS educators:
Olivia Dillon: Meredith College (High School English)
Lola Hansley: University of North Carolina-Wilmington (Middle Grades)
Brianna Huff: University of North Carolina-Wilmington (Elementary Ed)
Ariana Resaul: University of North Carolina-Charlotte (Elementary Ed)
Through the JOCO TEACH program, these seniors are graduating with both their high school diplomas and Associate degrees from Johnston Community College. After college, they’ll be coming back home to teach right here in Johnston County! 🏫🙌
We are so proud of your hard work and can’t wait to see you back in the classroom!
Read more about this amazing program: https://bit.ly/3RokXIh
#JCPSForward
Last night, May 12, 2026, we were honored to have Mr. Jason Spivey, a junior at Smithfield-Selma High, lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the Board of Education Meeting.
Jason has become a familiar and inspiring presence within the school community. For the past three years, he has proudly served as the voice of the Special Olympics Spring Games, bringing enthusiasm and energy to this celebrated event. Before joining the high school, Jason was well known at Smithfield Middle School for leading the Pledge of Allegiance each morning with pride and confidence.
As an original member of the Unified Track team, Jason continues to demonstrate determination, perseverance, and school spirit in all that he does. His positive attitude and commitment to giving his very best serve as an inspiration to those around him.
If you ask Jason, two of the things he looks forward to the most are leading Special Olympics activities each year, and celebrating an important milestone next year as he graduates from high school alongside his twin brother, Donnie.
Jason Spivey is a star among stars and has a promising future ahead.
Full details for Class of 2026 ceremonies are available on the JCPS Graduation Information webpage: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/graduation
For school-specific questions, contact your school.
One week is never enough to highlight every incredible opportunity, words of wisdom, comforting hugs, and amazing teachable moments. We know that you work tirelessly every single day to encourage and motivate our JCPS students!
In addition, we’re excited to debut a new feature publication showcasing the extraordinary educators nominated for the 2026 Flame for Learning Award.
View the Flame for Learning publication here: https://bit.ly/4wjkDKY
We’re grateful for the support and recognition of the amazing work happening in our schools each day.
Let’s continue to celebrate Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week!
Highlighting Mr. Justin Holmes! A truly wonderful educator, Mr. Holmes is known for his ability to inspire excellence both academically and through his leadership with the drumline. He doesn't just teach, he motivates every student to strive for their personal best.
Make some noise for Mr. Holmes and all of our teachers for their dedication to our students!
#JCPSForward
Ready, set, KINDERGARTEN! 🎉🎒✏️
Registration is open for the 2026-2027 school year, and we’re excited to welcome our newest learners!
Get started today on our website: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/enrollment
Clark’s commitment to her DECA students has led to incredible state and national accolades. Thank you for always pushing your students toward excellence!
#JCPSForward
South Smithfield Elementary School students, families, and staff kicked off Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day with their annual parade from Smithfield Civitan Field to campus. Whether cruising on bikes and scooters, skating along, or walking with friends, everyone showed up ready to move and have fun!
The Smithfield-Selma High School drumline provided beats with the cheerful crowd as they promoted healthy habits, happy hearts, and a great way to start the day!
A dynamic science teacher at North Johnston Middle, Mr. Baker is known for building strong, meaningful relationships with his students. He goes beyond the classroom, supporting not only their academic growth, but also helping shape them into confident, capable young adults.
Thank you, Mr. Baker, for making a lasting impact! 👏🔬
#JCPSForward
We are looking for Summer Reading Buddies! 😎
Make a difference this summer by helping our students start their mornings with a book. 📖
To sign up:
- Complete the sign-up form: https://bit.ly/JCPSbuddy2026
- Register with JCPS: https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/volunteers
She is the driving force behind the district’s student information systems, ensuring everything runs accurately, efficiently, and seamlessly behind the scenes.
Thank you, Ms. Smith, for keeping JCPS moving forward!
#JCPSForward
A Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) teacher at Four Oaks Elementary for the last nine years, and this summer McCall will work with researchers as part of the Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership at NC State University. She and the researchers will work to develop a domestic alternative to rubber sourced from Southeast Asia this summer.
She will learn the techniques and methods used to measure the properties of rubber latex at a microscopic level and bring that knowledge back to her students at Four Oaks Elementary.
For McCall, the fellowship is as much about her students as it is about her professional growth. “This opportunity creates an atmosphere of consistent teamwork in my classroom, which is critical for future success in the workplace,” she said. “It also unlocks students’ interests and talents they may not have had another chance to explore.”
Read more about this amazing opportunity here: https://bit.ly/4tYQH5o
JCPS appreciates Mr. Shreve and the lasting impression he makes on those around him.
#JCPSForward
As Central Enrollment Registrar, Cristina Galindo is often the first friendly face families encounter on their journey into Johnston County Public Schools. With care and attention to detail, she helps navigate the enrollment process and ensures each student’s transition into JCPS is smooth, supported, and welcoming from day one.
Cristina invites you to join the team and be a part of a community dedicated to supporting students and families every step of the way.
View current job opportunities here: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/employment
#AGreatPlaceToWork
#JCPSForward
“I see everybody who has a car,” he says. And that’s exactly what he loves most.
Thank you, Mr. Talton, for keeping our JCPS team rolling safely down the road!
#JCPSForward
As we continue in celebration, give it up for Tasheek Whitely-Supre, a kindergarten teacher at West Smithfield Elementary, who goes all out for her students every day!
Through her role as an international teacher, Whitely-Supre offers JCPS and it's students a unique blend of experience and global insight. One of her strengths is helping her students learn through song, dance, and active engagement. 🎶
Thank you, Ms. Whitely-Supre, for choosing JCPS and inspiring students every day!
#JCPSForward
Join us all week long as we highlight teachers and staff throughout the district in celebration of education professionals!
#JCPSForward
