Character Education is a priority for Johnston County Public Schools. Through a variety of means, schools in the district promote character education through rewards, bulletin boards, presentations, and interactive lessons. Each month, the Johnston County Board of Education recognizes students who have demonstrated good character. Below are the students recognized for January 2026.
Janiya Hooks
12th Grade - Corinth Holders High
Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up
Janiya is an exceptional and highly respected member of the Corinth Holders High swim team whose perseverance is evident in her daily actions. She consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, determination, and commitment to excellence in every practice and competition.
Even after completing two demanding club practices, Janiya arrives ready to work with a positive attitude and focus. A top point scorer for the Lady Pirates, she earns frequent first- and second-place finishes and contributes valuable relay points.
Through her consistency, leadership, and encouragement, Janiya models perseverance and inspires her teammates, making her a deserving candidate for recognition.
Karrington Hollowell
5th Grade - River Dell Elementary
Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up
Karrington is an excellent example of perseverance. She stands out for her hard work and determination, always giving her best effort, no matter how challenging an assignment may be. Karrington shows up each day ready to push herself, and her persistence is noticed by everyone around her.
She is also known for her kindness, going out of her way to include others and create a positive environment for her classmates. Thoughtful, supportive, and always willing to help, Karrington models good choices, a positive attitude, and determination.
River Dell Elementary is proud of her effort and the care she shows others.
Gabriel Gonzalez
5th Grade - Thanksgiving Elementary
Responsibility - Being accountable for your own actions
Gabriel is a kind, respectful, and bright young man who lives out the ROAM expectations each day. He consistently shows respect to classmates and teachers, offering daily acts of kindness, from encouraging words at recess to warm greetings and thoughtful gestures.
Gabriel acts responsibly by completing assignments diligently, leading his peers, and showing strong self-direction. He takes his role as a student seriously and is accountable for his actions and their impact on others.
As a Thanksgiving Elementary Buffalo, Gabriel makes a positive difference in the classroom and school, and we are proud to celebrate him.
Liam Smith
8th Grade - Archer Lodge Middle
Respect - Understanding that all people have value as human beings
During Liam’s time at Archer Lodge Middle, he has consistently shown respect for teachers and peers. He is a patient, kind, and considerate friend who reflects strong character traits such as compassion, integrity, and fairness.
Liam comes to school each day with a positive attitude and eagerness to learn. He demonstrates respect in the classroom, hallways, and extracurricular activities by listening attentively, valuing others’ opinions, and treating everyone with kindness.
Through his positive actions, responsibility, and care for others, Liam models respect daily and is deserving of this recognition.
Not Pictured:
Tahmil Somers
5th Grade - Corinth-Holders Elementary
Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated
Tahmil is an exceptional fifth-grade student who consistently demonstrates respect, compassion, and dependability. He arrives at school each day with a positive attitude, creating a welcoming environment for others. Tahmil shows kindness through encouragement, helping classmates, returning lost items, and supporting peers without being asked.
He assists a younger student each morning, helps ensure food security by delivering Backpack Buddy bags, and completes tasks carefully and responsibly. A quiet leader, Tahmil supports staff, promotes safety, and gives his best effort at all times.
His kindness and reliability make him a wonderful role model.