Administration

Mr. Darrick McNeill

Mr. Darrick McNeill - Principal

Mr. Darrick McNeill has been involved in education for more than 20 years. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Saint Augustine's College. He later went to North Carolina Central University to obtain a Master's Degree in Special Education with a concentration in Learning Disabilities. Mr. McNeill also holds a Master's Degree in School Administration from North Carolina Central University with a concentration in Education Administration and Supervision.

As a teacher, Mr. McNeill taught exceptional children's classes for eight years at McGee's Crossroads Middle School in Benson, North Carolina. As a first year teacher, Mr. McNeill was voted by his peers as the First Year Teacher of the Year for McGee's Middle. During his tenure at McGee's, Mr. McNeill also served as the Head Boy's Basketball Coach for seven of those years. After earning his second Master's Degree, Mr. McNeill transitioned into his first assistant principal job at Smithfield Middle School, where he also served as the school's Athletic Director. Prior to coming to West Smithfield, Mr. McNeill served as an assistant principal at West View Elementary School, in Garner, North Carolina.

In his spare time, Mr. McNeill enjoys traveling, fishing, coaching, attending sporting events(Go Heels!) and spending time with his family. He and his wife, Tiffany, have two beautiful children, a son named Landon and a daughter named Logan.

Email Mr. Darrick McNeill

Mrs. Carmen Barnes

Mrs. Carmen Barnes - Assistant Principal

Hello Eagle family! I am so happy to be joining the faculty and staff at West Smithfield Elementary. My name is Carmen Barnes, and I will be serving as the Assistant Principal. This year is my 21st in public education, where I have served as an elementary teacher, a middle school teacher, a curriculum coach, and finally, a technology teacher and facilitator.  I have also taught special populations in two residential settings and ESL classes. Most of my educational experience has taken place in Johnston County Public Schools, and I am thrilled to continue my journey at West Smithfield. 

 When I am not at WSE, I can usually be found on the “farm” with my wonderful husband, Chris. Together we have two beautiful, adult children and 14 pets, including dogs, cats, goats, and chickens. In my free time, I like to read, play pickleball, and go camping.

Email Mrs. Carmen Barnes