A graphic that reads March 2026 Character Education Students

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 March 2026.


Alannah Rozar

5th Grade - Powhatan Elementary
Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated

Alannah RozarPowhatan Elementary proudly recognizes Alannah Rozar as its 2025–2026 Character Education Award recipient. Known for her kindness, positivity, and genuine care for others, Alannah encourages classmates, helps those in need, and makes everyone feel included and valued.

Despite being mostly deaf in her right ear, she shows determination and confidence each day. A talented artist and writer, she also earned her Black Belt in karate this year.

Powhatan Elementary is proud to celebrate her exceptional character!


Monroe Purdy

4th Grade - Riverwood Elementary
Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated

A picture of Monroe PurdyMonroe Purdy exemplifies outstanding character in every aspect of school life at Riverwood Elementary. A kind and compassionate fourth-grade student, she consistently gives her best effort on all academic tasks.

Though quiet and reserved, Monroe communicates with excellent manners and respectfully seeks support when needed. She stays focused, works well independently or with others, and is always willing to help classmates.

Monroe lives by the Golden Rule and is known for her humility, respect, and gratitude. Her teachers view her as a model of strong character and work ethic.

Riverwood Elementary is honored to recognize Monroe Purdy for her exemplary character.


Zoey Devine

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

A picture of Zoey DevineOver the past three years at Riverwood Middle, Zoey Devine has grown into a respectful, dependable, and conscientious leader. After facing challenges in sixth grade, she developed the perseverance and character that define her today.

Zoey consistently strives to do the right thing and serves as a positive role model for her peers. She represents herself, her family, and Riverwood Middle School with pride and integrity.

Riverwood Middle School is proud to recognize Zoey for the outstanding character she demonstrates each day.


Aaliyah Elizabeth Rhue

5th Grade - Selma Elementary
Dependability - Keeping your promises

A picture of Aliyah RhueAaliyah Rue, a fifth-grade student at Selma Elementary, exemplifies the character trait of dependability. As a member of the Student Ambassador Team and the Science Olympiad team, she consistently attends meetings and events and gives her best effort.

Aaliyah completes her work on time, follows classroom expectations, and comes to school prepared each day. She also takes initiative by helping classmates and supporting teachers when needed. Her reliability, positive attitude, and strong sense of responsibility make her a great role model for her peers.

Selma Elementary is proud to recognize Aaliyah Rue as the March Character Education Award recipient.


Yaneidy Deno

8th Grade - Selma Middle
Compassion - Treating others as you would like to be treated

A picture of Yaneidy DenoYaneidy Deno, an eighth-grade student at Selma Middle, was selected to represent the character trait of compassion. She treats others with kindness and respect, greeting peers and staff with a smile and helping create a positive school environment.

In the classroom, she participates actively and encourages others to feel included. As a member of the volleyball team, she models strong sportsmanship and helps new players feel welcome. Through her empathy, responsibility, and leadership, Yaneidy shows compassion each day.

Selma Middle excitedly recognizes her for the March Character Education Award.


Tucker Scott

5th Grade - West Smithfield Elementary
Perseverance - Working hard and not giving up

A picture of Tucker ScottTucker Scott consistently demonstrates outstanding perseverance. Whether mastering new math concepts, improving his writing, or tackling challenging reading passages, he approaches each task with determination and a positive attitude.

When work becomes difficult, Tucker stays focused, asks thoughtful questions, and keeps trying until he succeeds. He also encourages classmates and models patience and effort. His resilience, growth mindset, and strong commitment have led to steady academic progress and make him a positive role model at West Smithfield Elementary.

Congratulations to Tucker Scott on being named the March Character Education Student for West Smithfield Elementary.