We had an unforgettable night celebrating 20 exceptional JCPS educators at the 32nd annual Flame For Learning Award Ceremony in the presence of friends, family, colleagues, and more!
There were 218 nominations for this year’s title, representing 15 schools across the school district. Nearly all semifinalists were first-time nominees, underscoring the depth of outstanding educators across the JCPS team. Nominated by colleagues and administrators, the semifinalists advanced through a judging process that included interviews and submitting their classroom best practices for review.
On behalf of Johnston County Public Schools, the Johnston County Board of Education, and the Johnston County Coalition of Chambers, congratulations to all of the semifinalists, finalists, and James Johnson, the 2026 Teacher of the Year. 👏
Read more about the 2026 Flame For Learning Award Ceremony here: https://bit.ly/3QpEnMz
Johnston County Public Schools hosted its 32nd annual Flame For Learning Awards this evening, naming James Johnson, Agricultural Mechanics teacher from North Johnston High, as the 2026 Teacher of the Year.
Johnson was one of four Flame for Learning Award finalists, including Moesha Gonzales of Swift Creek Middle, Lena LeBoeuf of Swift Creek Elementary, and Rebecca Reeves of Smithfield-Selma High.
On behalf of Johnston County Public Schools, the Johnston County Board of Education, and the Johnston County Coalition of Chambers, congratulations to all of the semifinalists and James Johnson, our 2026 Teacher of the Year!
Whether in class, competitions, or FBLA, he acts with fairness, respect, and professionalism. Trusted by peers and teachers, Kai-Lin leads by example and contributes to a positive, ethical school community.
Congratulations, Kai-Lin, for being recognized as the April Character Ed Student for Princeton Middle/High! 👏
Johnny takes such pride in his work and invites you to join him!
View current job opportunities here: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/employment
#AGreatPlaceToWork
#JCPSForward
Congratulations to Christina Schaffer, Visual Arts teacher at Smithfield Middle! She is our Certified Employee of the Month for April! 👏
Schaffer began her educational career 21 years ago, but her love for art began much earlier. She discovered her passion for making art in the fourth grade and knew she wanted to share it with others through becoming a teacher.
Scahaffer shares her love for art education and her core belief that “art is for everyone” in her Spotlight Q&A on our website: https://bit.ly/4mJcMlx
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
She also demonstrates strong self-discipline, completing her work despite a busy schedule and seeking extra practice when needed.
Focused and determined, she avoids distractions and always strives to do her best. Londyn is a caring, hardworking student and a positive role model for her peers.
Congratulations, Londyn, for being recognized as the April Character Ed Student for South Smithfield Elementary! 👏
The momentum continued on day two of Special Olympics Johnston County Spring Games as we saw big smiles and incredible spirit from our Special Olympics athletes and supporters. 💪
We are so proud of everyone and all they’ve accomplished, and we are looking forward to next week to see what day 3 brings!
From start to finish, here’s a recap of the past two days: https://bit.ly/4sJ5zU2
Congratulations to Amanda Dauphinais from Innovation Academy, Erica Morse from Polenta Elementary, and Hermilo Arbuyes, Jr. from Cleveland High for being named a semifinalist for the 2026 Flame For Learning Award! 🎉
This recognition highlights the meaningful impact that these individuals make in their classrooms each and every day, and we are so proud to celebrate them at the annual Flame For Learning Awards on April 21st!
✨ Click here to see their Best Practice that set them apart: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/flameforlearning
Organized and dependable, Annaleigh follows through on every commitment. She manages her time well, completes her work, and shows perseverance and initiative in her learning.
Beyond academics, Annaleigh is kind, respectful, and encouraging to others. Her leadership, integrity, and compassion make Annaleigh a strong role model and valued member of her school community.
Congratulations, Annaleigh, for being recognized as the April Character Ed Student for Princeton Elementary! 👏
There was so much excitement from the start! Before the games began, the teams paraded around the track to the cheers of the families and friends gathered in the stands.
From 100-meter races and running jump, to tennis ball throw, and bowling, our elementary Special Olympics athletes showed incredible athleticism, determination, and sportsmanship.
Huge thanks to Special Olympics Johnston County for partnering with JCPS to put together this great event at Smithfield-Selma High.
Stay tuned for day two!
Congratulations to Natalia Jaramillo from Cooper Academy, Darby High from Clayton High, Tracy Mitchell from East Clayton Elementary, and Meagan Leas from Archer Lodge Middle for being named a semifinalist for the 2026 Flame For Learning Award! 🎉
This recognition highlights the meaningful impact that these individuals make in their classrooms each and every day, and we are so proud to celebrate them at the annual Flame For Learning Awards on April 21st!
✨ Click here to see their Best Practice that set them apart: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/flameforlearning
Yesterday, we celebrated 18 educators as they signed their early contracts at the 3rd Annual Early Contract Signing Event.
Ready to begin their careers with Johnston County Public Schools, they were treated to remarks from Nicole Riggs, the Outstanding First-Year Teacher of the Year, and JCPS Superintendent Dr. David Pearce. Each provided encouragement and inspiration that supported JCPS’ commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students.
Each teacher signed their contracts in front of family, friends, JCPS administrators, and members of JCPS Leadership. The event marks the beginning of an exciting journey for these educators as they step into their profession and make a positive impact on our students' lives.
Welcome to JCPS!
Read more about this exciting afternoon here: https://bit.ly/4vzT5k7
#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
Johnston County Public Schools hosted Representative Howard Penny today in celebration of Bring Your Legislator to School Day.
Rep. Penny visited McGee’s Crossroads Elementary, accompanied by district leaders and school-based administrators. The visit included a tour of classrooms, the cafeteria, and recreation spaces.
Meaningful conversation regarding funding, educational opportunities, population growth, teacher recruitment and retention, and much more.
Thank you, Rep. Penny, for your continued support of JCPS!
#JCPSFoward
This construction and bond project update showcases the work happening across the district to support students now and into the future.
See what is underway and what is still to come: https://bit.ly/4tj9eJa
#JCPSForward
Congratulations to Loshawndo Brown, head custodian at Princeton Middle/High! She is our Classified Employee of the Month for April! 👏
A Johnston County native and proud graduate of Smithfield-Selma High, Brown values the opportunity her role provides to build relationships and connect with everyone in the school, including students, staff, and the community.
Brown sheds light on the importance of her role and what she has learned in her Spotlight Q&A: bit.ly/3Q3jgj1
#GreatThingsAreHappeningInJCPS
Congratulations to Lena LeBoeuf from Swift Creek Elementary, Moesha Gonzales from Swift Creek Middle, James Johnson from North Johnston High, and Dorothy Holley from West Johnston High for being named a semifinalist for the 2026 Flame For Learning Award! 🎉
This recognition highlights the meaningful impact that these individuals make in their classrooms each and every day, and we are so proud to celebrate them at the annual Flame For Learning Awards on April 21st!
✨ Click here to see their Best Practice that set them apart: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/flameforlearning
Special Olympics Johnston County Spring Games start TOMORROW, and we are so excited!
Come out and support our Special Olympics athletes loud and proud on April 16th, 17th, and 24th at Smithfield-Selma High as they inspire us all! 💪
Taja serves as a member of the Student Government Association and has earned an impressive 4.2 GPA. This reflects her strong commitment to academic excellence and her ability to balance rigorous coursework with leadership responsibilities.
Through the Career and College Promise Program at Johnston Community College, Taja is pursuing studies in Criminal Justice. She has also been accepted into Phi Theta Kappa, the official honor society for two-year colleges, recognizing her academic success and commitment to scholarship.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Taja is a creative and well-rounded individual. She enjoys drawing and expresses her artistic talents. In addition, she has a passion for music and plays multiple instruments, including the guitar and flute.
We are proud to recognize Taja as a member of the 2025-2026 Superintendent Student Leader cohort! 👏
Congratulations to Elma Arquillano, Ana Zuniga, and Carlotta Stillings from Selma Elementary, and Rebecca Reeves and Oscar Anasco Quezada from Smithfield-Selma High, for being named a semifinalist for the 2026 Flame For Learning Award! 🎉
This recognition highlights the meaningful impact that these individuals make in their classrooms each and every day, and we are so proud to celebrate them at the annual Flame For Learning Awards on April 21st!
✨ Click here to see their Best Practice that set them apart: www.johnston.k12.nc.us/flameforlearning
