Pine Level Elementary students showed their spirit with the annual Red Ribbon Parade, proving that saying “boo to drugs” never goes out of style!
Students, staff, community members, and local leaders joined together to promote a bright, drug-free future! 💪🚫
Thank you, Mr. Sasser, and all of the event coordinators for helping remind our students about Red Ribbon week and the importance of living a drug-free life!
Read more here: https://bit.ly/47RqPzu
Meet Oliva Bass, a Kindergarten superstar! 🌟
We caught up with her at the end of the first quarter to hear all about what she’s loving in Kindergarten (spoiler: pretty much everything and every subject!).
Check out her interview answers below 👇
So far this year in kindergarten, what has been your favorite part?
"My favorite part about Kindergarten is computers."
What has been your favorite subject so far?
"My favorite subject is math. I like that you learn your numbers. I can count to 100."
What are you most excited about for the rest of this year?
"Math. But I like reading too. My favorite books are unicorns."
What do you love most about your teacher?
"She helps us learn and lets us play games."
What do you want to be when you get older?
"I want to be a doctor. I just like helping people."
October may be ending, but our gratitude for our principals never does! As we wrap up October, don't forget to thank your principal!
Principals, your impact is invaluable!
#LeadingForward
#NationalPrincipalsMonth
The ongoing PLC training is JCPS’ effort to improve the educational environment in our buildings. The research-based, results-driven services will improve learning outcomes that will continue to propel JCPS!
We look forward to seeing the implementation of these strategies and subsequently the dynamic results!
#LeadingForward
During its October 28, 2025, Special Session meeting, the Johnston County Board of Education voted unanimously to approve the plans for the highly anticipated Clayton High School rebuild, which is a project that marks a new era for education in Clayton and surrounding communities.
The new 278,000-square-foot facility will serve as a cornerstone for 21st-century learning, designed with a focus on safety and security, state-of-the-art learning environments, athletic and fine arts spaces, and innovative technology and learning labs. While the design embraces modern educational needs, it also preserves elements of the school’s historic culture that have defined generations of Clayton Comets.
The new school will accommodate 2,000 students in grades 9–12 and feature a three-story academic wing alongside a two-story arts and athletics wing. Its open-concept design will promote flexible, collaborative learning spaces that foster creativity, innovation, and teamwork. The building itself is expected to be completed by December 2027, with the entire campus slated for full completion in Fall 2028.
“This is more than a building, it is a commitment to the future of our students and our community,” said Dr. David Pearce, Superintendent of Johnston County Public Schools. “The new Clayton High School will reflect the academic excellence, pride, and unity that have always defined the Comet spirit. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together around a shared vision for its children.”
Learn more about the Clayton High rebuild project here: https://bit.ly/47eA9xf
Enhancing the learning and working spaces for both students and staff at Johnston County Public Schools, Brian Baker, an Integrated Communication Technician, has been a member of the facilities services team for many years.
Brian invites you to join the JCPS team and continue making an impact in the lives of students every day!
View current job opportunities here: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/employment
#AGreatPlaceToWork
#JCPSForward
College Application Week was an incredible success! 🎓⭐
Students submitted 1,346 applications, saving more than $60,000 in fees!
From college fairs to family events, the week was filled with excitement, guidance, and big steps toward bright futures!
Great job to Student Services for helping secure our students' educational future!
Join us this Wednesday, October 29th, 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!
Cleveland High senior Krisjon Clark has returned to school and is now cheering on his teammates from the sidelines as he recovers from having cardiac arrest while playing the sport that he loves.
Tonight, he and his family shared their story on WRAL, bringing attention to how sudden events like his can impact young athletes.
See the interview here: https://bit.ly/3Ju5FOy
Get well soon Krisjon!
Dr. Pearce launched the meeting by providing an excerpt reading from the book “The Portable Pep Talk”, which paved the way for conversations regarding academic achievement, artificial intelligence, building community and relationships, mental health, student leadership, and school improvement.
This cohort of leaders is a promising group of individuals who exemplify the excellence JCPS prides itself in!
#LeadingForward
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.
