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 May 2026.

Benson Middle student Maggie Wood was a February 2026 Character Education Award recipient. A straight-A student and a 3-sport athlete, Maggie is a busy young lady and was unable to attend the February Board of Education meeting. We are happy to recognize her this month.

Maggie Wood

8th Grade - Benson Middle
Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up

Benson Middle nominates Maggie Wood as its February Character Education Award recipient. She demonstrates self-discipline, respect, perseverance, responsibility, compassion, and integrity in both academics and daily interactions.

A straight-A student in advanced classes, Maggie maintains a strong work ethic while balancing a demanding schedule as a three-sport athlete and travel team member.

Kind and encouraging, she leads by example and earns the respect of peers and staff. Maggie represents the best of Benson Middle School.

Congratulations, Maggie, for being recognized as the February 2026 Character Ed Student for Benson Middle!

Rossely Sorcia Flores

12th Grade - Johnston County Early College Academy
Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up

Rossely exemplifies perseverance, consistently showing up and giving her best. A senior at Johnston County Early College Academy, she has balanced college coursework since her freshman year while leading ECA’s First Gen Club and JCC’s Psychology Club.

She will graduate with both her high school diploma and an Associate in Arts. Rossely has earned the NC Teaching Fellows and Transformational scholarships at NC State, where she plans to study elementary education.

Her passion and kindness shine through, and we look forward to her future impact.

Congratulations, Rossely, for being recognized as the May Character Ed Student for Johnston County Early College Academy!

Sarah Doran

8th Grade - Innovation Academy at South Campus
Respect - Understanding that all people have value as human beings

Sarah Doran exemplifies respect through the kindness and warmth she shows everyone. Her uplifting spirit makes others feel seen, valued, and included.

In theatre, her creativity and leadership shine as she encourages others and brings out their best. Sarah creates a positive environment in every class and rehearsal, leading with confidence and compassion.

Loyal and supportive, Sarah stands by her peers through successes and challenges, building trust and unity. She truly reflects the Innovation Academy and JCPS spirit.

Congratulations, Sarah, for being recognized as the May Character Ed Student for Innovation Academy at South Campus!

Natalia Fonseca

8th Grade - Choice Plus Academy
Respect - Understanding that all people have value as human beings

Natalia Fonseca is a respectful, dependable student who brings a positive attitude to all areas of school life. Pleasant and approachable, she helps create a welcoming classroom environment.

At Choice Plus Academy, Natalia sets a high standard through her behavior, work ethic, and commitment to excellence. She advocates for her peers, encouraging responsible choices. Natalia also excels academically, earning straight A’s through strong organization and a desire to learn.

With excellent attendance and natural leadership, Natalia is a trusted, valuable member of the school community.

Congratulations, Natalia, for being recognized as the May Character Ed Student for Choice Plus Academy!

DJ Welch

9th Grade - JCPS Virtual Academy
Integrity - Being honest in all things

DJ Welch was unanimously selected by the Virtual Academy high school faculty for the Character Education Award, reflecting his integrity and strong character.

He shows self-discipline by giving his best effort in every situation and treats others with respect and kindness. DJ demonstrates perseverance and responsibility, working through challenges and holding himself accountable.

His compassion and dependability stand out, as he supports others and follows through on his commitments. DJ is a deserving recipient of this honor and a positive role model in the school community.

Congratulations, DJ, for being recognized as the May Character Ed Student for JCPS Virtual Academy!

Jaxon Blue

11th Grade - Johnston County Career & Technical Leadership Academy
Responsibility - Being accountable for your own actions

Jaxon Blue, a rising 12th grader at CTLA, has been selected for the character trait of responsibility. He consistently demonstrates accountability, dependability, and strong self-discipline in all areas of his school life.

Jaxon takes ownership of his academic responsibilities by completing assignments on time, maintaining a high standard of work, and staying organized without the need for constant reminders.

Beyond the classroom, he can be counted on to follow through on commitments, support his peers, and contribute positively to group efforts. His teachers and classmates recognize him as someone who leads by example, making thoughtful decisions and handling challenges with maturity.

Jaxon’s reliability and commitment to doing what is expected, and often more, make him a deserving representative of responsibility for CTLA at the district level.

Congratulations, Jaxon, for being recognized as the May Character Ed Student for CTLA!