Mark is already thinking about his future. When asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, he was quick to giggle and say, "When I grow up, I just wanna catch a catfish."
Swipe to see the rest of his end-of-quarter one interview answers 👉








Today, eighth-grade students had the opportunity to discover career possibilities from more than 40 local industries based right here in Johnston County, including event sponsor Novo Nordisk, UNC Health Johnston, and the North Carolina Forestry Association.
The annual two-day event held on the Johnston Community College campus provides students with hands-on experiences to explore possible career paths.
Stay tuned for more pictures on Day 2!





When asked what her favorite subject in school was, she replied, "I love writing. I can write my name."
Swipe to see the rest of her end-of-quarter one interview answers 👉



Yesterday, South Johnston High's FFA celebrated the ribbon-cutting of their brand new nature trail, Blue & Gold Trail! This project has been in the works since January 2025, brought to life through the hard work and dedication of many hands.
A huge thank you to the Bright Ideas Grant for making this incredible opportunity possible for our students! 🌳










When asked what his favorite color was, he replied, “My favorite color is red like my school." He then went on to say, "A lot of things are red" and described many red objects within his classroom.
Swipe to see the rest of his end-of-quarter one interview answers 👉





Meet Lilith Orbik!
When asked what her favorite thing about kindergarten was, she replied, "What I love most about kindergarten is making new friends.”
Swipe to see the rest of her end-of-quarter one interview answers 👉




Join us this Wednesday, November 5th, 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!

Say hello to Orlando Lewis! When asked what his favorite thing about kindergarten was so far, his response was, "I like to play with Play-Doh, dance, and learning. I like to do everything."
Swipe to see the rest of his end-of-quarter one interview answers 👉





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

