Nick Rotenberry Receives Flame for Learning
Nick Rotenberry, a fourth grade English Language Arts and Social Studies teacher at Polenta Elementary, was named Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) 2024 Teacher of the Year. In partnership with Triangle East Chamber, the 30th annual Flame for Learning Award celebration was held at The Barn at Broadslab in Benson, honoring all of the 20 semifinalists. As the recipient of the Flame for Learning Mr. Rotenberry will represent Johnston County in the regional competition for North Carolina Teacher of the
JCPS Breaks Ground On Swift Creek Elementary School
SMITHFIELD, NC – On Tuesday, April 9, 2024, Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) broke ground on the school district’s newest project, Swift Creek Elementary, located at 4188 Cleveland Road, Smithfield. The 49th school in the district, Swift Creek Elementary is instrumental in alleviating some of the capacity challenges due to the exponential growth in the central Johnston County area. The state-of-the-art building offers a modern day feel, without sacrificing key aspects. Security and
Johnston County Early College Academy Senior Jara Ashley is Poised for Success
SMITHFIELD, NC – Johnston County Early College Academy (JCECA) senior Ashley Jara was chosen to take part in the North Carolina’s Governor’s Page Program. Jara and around 10 other high school students from around North Carolina earned the opportunity to engage in four days of hands-on participation in state government. Since she was young, Jara has always been fascinated with the government. She remembers seeing Hilary Clinton on television when she was growing up and that inspired her. “There's
Johnston Community College First in State to Offer Truck Driver Training to High School Seniors
JCC is offering the training through the Career and College Promise program to students who turn 18 years of age by April 30th of their senior year. Smithfield, N.C., (March 18 , 2024) – Johnston Community College (JCC) is the first community college in the state to offer truck driver training through the Career and College Promise (CCP) dual-enrollment program for high school students. Students who wish to apply to the truck driver training pathway must be high school seniors who will turn 18 years old
Johnston County Public Schools Wants Your Feedback On Its Next Strategic Plan
Johnston County Public Schools wants your feedback on its next Strategic Plan. In the fall we received input from over 12,000 members of the Johnston County Public Schools community on what we need in our district's next strategic plan. Please plan to join us on Monday, March 18th, from 6:00-7:15 pm at Swift Creek Middle School to learn how we have incorporated community feedback and weigh in on our progress thus far. Participants will preview the district’s new vision, mission, values, and
2024 Flame for Learning Semifinalists Announced
Johnston County's Top Educators Vie for Teacher of the Year at the 30th Annual Flame for Learning Award Ceremony Johnston County's Teacher of the Year is poised to be recognized at the prestigious 30th Annual Flame for Learning Award Ceremony, set to take place on April 23, 2024, at the Barn at Broadslab. This event will not only celebrate the pinnacle of educational excellence but also shine a spotlight on the exceptional achievements of twenty semifinalists vying for this honor. The Flame
Johnston County Public Schools Holds Student Teacher Signing Day
On Tuesday, February 27, 2024 Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) held its second annual teacher signing day. The event, mirrored after a sports contract signing ceremony, recognized and celebrated student teachers who have committed to staying on with JCPS. This year, six JCPS student teachers signed their one-year contracts in front of friends, family, teachers, and school district administrators. “We are so excited for them to begin their journey as a teacher with our district next school
JCC Now Offers Degree in 911 Operations
Richmond Community College’s 911 telecommunications program will now be available to students at Johnston Community College after an official agreement was signed by college leaders earlier this week. Dr. Dale McInnis, president of Richmond CC, and Dr. Vern Lindquist, president of JCC, signed off on the partnership on Monday that will allow JCC students to enroll in the online program and complete an associate degree in 911 Communications & Operations. “We believe in the power of collaboration to
Johnston County’s Own Crowned Miss America’s Teen
SMITHFIELD, NC - Hanley House, a junior at Cleveland High School (CvHS), was crowned Miss America’s Teen 2024 at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando on January 13, 2024. Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) is proud to recently conduct House’s first official in-person interview as Miss America’s Teen. Just over one year ago, on a whim, House decided to step out of her comfort zone and enter her first-ever pageant, Miss Cleveland High. She always watched Miss America on television, never thinking
Linda Van Lassiter Philanthropist of the Year Nominations Open
The JCC Foundation is now accepting nominations for the Linda Vann Lassiter Philanthropist of the Year award, which will be honored on May 2, 2024. For more information, click HERE.
State Superintendent Visits Cleveland Elementary
CLAYTON, NC - North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt visited Cleveland Elementary on Wednesday, December 12, 2023, Accompanied by NC Department of Instruction Regional Coordinator Dr. Kendra King and Special Advisor to Superintendent for Principal Engagement Tabari Wallace. Fifth grader Parker Mortenson welcomed Truitt, Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy, JCPS cabinet members, and several Johnston County Board of Education members to
Smithfield-Selma High Hosts Topping Out Ceremony
SMITHFIELD - Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) held a Topping Out Ceremony at Smithfield-Selma High on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. The Topping Out Ceremony was a celebration of the nearly completed auxiliary gym at Smithfield-Selma High. The gym is the final project of the 2018 Bond Referendum. In addition, the auxiliary gym will include a locker room, weight room, and restrooms for use by students, staff, and the public. Students and staff will have the additional space for educational
JCPS eighth grade students get hands-on experience at JOCO WORKS 2023
SMITHFIELD, NC - Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) eighth grade students attended the JOCO WORKS 2023 Career Expo at Johnston Community College (JCC) November 2-3. Approximately 3,500 eighth-grade students had the opportunity to connect with more than 40 local industries, including Grifols, Caterpillar, and event sponsor, Novo Nordisk. Through hands-on experiences, JOCO WORKS is a groundbreaking initiative that is transforming the way JCPS eighth graders in Johnston County explore
Johnston County Eighth Graders to Attend JOCO WORKS Career Expo at JCC
Thousands of Johnston County eighth graders will attend JOCO WORKS, a collaborative career expo, at Johnston Community College Smithfield, N.C., (October 26, 2023) – JOCO WORKS Career Exposition, presented by Novo Nordisk, is back at Johnston Community College. The event which presents real-world simulations and information about career options will be held November 2-3, 2023. Over three thousand Johnston County eighth graders are expected to attend this industry-led collaborative supported by
JCC's Small Business Center Offering Business Techonology Webinars for Spanish-Speaking Individuals
The Small Business Center at Johnston Community College is organizing webinars on Business Technology topics designed explicitly for Spanish-speaking individuals. These webinars are tailored to empower and equip the Hispanic community with essential knowledge and skills in Business Technology, enhancing their entrepreneurial journey. The sessions will cover various relevant topics, providing valuable insights and practical applications for business development and growth.
JCPS Welcomes Students Back for the 2023-24 School Year
Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) kicked off the 2023-24 school year on Monday, August 28, welcoming tens of thousands of students back to all 48 schools. Although rain showers were moving through Johnston County, the excitement could not be dampened. Families lined up early in anticipation of what the new school year would bring. Students had their new backpacks filled with supplies, and parents snapped those first day of school pictures. Fourth-grade West Clayton Elementary student Jounas Acosta
UMO Hires Dr. Twyla Wells to Lead Advancement Program
MOUNT OLIVE – The University of Mount Olive has announced that Dr. Twyla Wells will head its Office of University Advancement. Wells will begin her role as Vice President for University Advancement on July 10. Prior to joining UMO, she worked at Johnston Community College for 23 years in various roles in the Advancement Division including as Vice President for Advancement and Community Relations and Executive Director of the JCC Foundation, Inc. She continues to serve as President and CEO of
Brian A. Jones selected as the 2023 Administrative Auxiliary Services Employee of the Year
Director of Enrollment and Information Systems, Brian A. Jones was selected as Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) 2023 Administrative Auxiliary Services Employee of the Year. Brian is a graduate of Leadership Johnston. Receiving multiple nominations from his colleagues, Jones’ positive attitude was a recurring theme throughout. One nominator wrote, “Brian has a bright and infectious attitude. His presence is felt in the room, and he has a ‘can do’ attitude.” “I’ve always had that
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JoCo TEACH awards inaugural scholarship to Smithfield-Selma High senior
Carter Clever, a senior at Smithfield-Selma High School (SSS) and a 2023 Johnston Community College graduate was awarded one of the first Johnston County Teaching Educators And Coming Home (JoCo TEACH) program scholarships. Clever received $30,000 to attend the college of his choice through the JoCo TEACH program. Established in 2019, JoCo TEACH is a program designed to invest in and recruit diverse students seeking a degree as educators. It provides a seamless pathway for students to earn their
Appliance Boot Camp National Convention
Appliance Boot Camp is an intense, combination hands on and online training program that will equip you with the confidence and necessary skills to own and operate your own appliance repair business. Join us on June 16, 2023 as we welcome over 100 graduates from our program to Selma, NC. This will be a great time for current high school students, recent graduates and anyone looking for a change in careers to learn about the appliance industry and network with industry leaders. The appliance repair field
Clayton High School Holds Student Appreciation Luncheon Sponsored by Hatley Construction & Repair
Clayton, NC — Hatley Construction & Repair, a leading Clayton-based firm, sponsored the Student Appreciation Luncheon for students participating in the CORE, Carpentry 1, and Carpentry 2 programs at Clayton High School on Friday, May 12. Annually, these programs engage approximately 250 students, providing them with vital, practical skills in construction and repair. “The trade industry is a vital cornerstone of our society, one that is often overlooked, especially on the educational level; the
Melissa Pearce named JCPS 2023 Teacher of the Year
Cleveland High English teacher Melissa Pearce was named the Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) 2023 Teacher of the Year. With the naming Pearce made history, as she is the first person to ever receive the award twice. Pearce received the award for the first time 2007 and was named a finalist for the award in 2022. Pearce has been an educator with JCPS for the past 19 years. She has been teaching for 20 years, spending her first year teaching in Pamlico County. “It wasn’t quite home,” she said.
Madavia Johnson named Outstanding First Year Teacher of the Year
Madavia Johnson, a teacher at McGee’s Crossroads Middle, was crowned Outstanding First Year Teacher of the Year by Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS). Johnson is a seventh grade English language arts and social studies teacher. Nominated by their administrators, each of the 34 candidates went through an interview process. On Thursday, April 20, 2023, all 34 nominees were celebrated with a special ceremony for them and their families at Selma Elementary. Johnson was one of three finalists
Johnston County Public Schools’ Job Fair Is a Huge Success
On Saturday, April 15, 2023, Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) had its annual job fair at West Johnston High. The event welcomed candidates from as close as Johnston County, and many from out of state. “The cafeteria was filled with positive energy, and a steady stream of candidates throughout the morning,” Brian Vetrano, JCPS Chief of Human Resources, said. School administrators from all 48 schools were on hand to greet candidates face-to-face, tell them about their particular school
Johnston Community College Foundation Names Joy Callahan Interim Executive Director
The Johnston Community College Foundation (JCCF) has named Joy Callahan Interim Executive Director. Callahan worked at Johnston Community College (JCC) as the Dean of Economic and Workforce Development until her retirement in 2021, when she started her own consulting company, Callahan Connections. Through her work with Johnston County Economic Development, Callahan has worked with JCC on numerous projects during the past few years. “We are delighted to have Joy join us again until we name a permanent
Smithfield-Selma High Senior Earns Experience of a Lifetime
Smithfield-Selma High senior and Smithfield native Jude Reece was recently among a special group of students invited inside the halls of power in Washington, D.C. through the U.S. Senate Youth Program. He was one of only two delegates from North Carolina, and one of 104 delegates from across the country chosen for this honor. Greer Suggs, Reece’s English teacher, told him about the program, and he immediately jumped at the opportunity. To earn a spot, he wrote an essay about the role of the
Neuse Charter School Holds Family Night to Shine a Spotlight On Elementary Academics and Arts
On Wednesday, March 22, Neuse Charter of Johnston County held a family night to highlight students’ work in music, art, science and more. The lower academy (Kindergarten-5th grade) performed a spring concert. Science fair projects were on display for grades 3-5. 2nd graders were dressed as a famous American of their choice for the famous American Wax Museum. The students researched a famous American and presented information and details to their classes about what they learned from different famous
NEUSE CHARTER SCHOOL WINS DISTRICT BATTLE OF THE BOOKS COMPETITION
On Friday March 24, the Elementary Battle of the Books team at Neuse Charter School of Johnston County won the district competition. Led by staff members Loraine Iaquinto and Tracy Narron, the team consisted of 12 students in 4th and 5th grades. There were 15 novels on the Battle of the Books reading list. While each team member was only required to read 5, many read all 15 books on the reading list. “It was a special honor for this year’s team to win Battle of the Books,” said Lower Academy
Learn About JCPS Summer Camps
DISTRICT C TEAMSHIPAttention Rising Grades 10-12 Looking for a way to enhance your teamwork and leadership skills this summer? In the Leaders at Work District C Teamship experience, students work together to solve real world problems for a real local business. A final pitch event allows students to present their proposal to industry representatives & community members. Check out this video to see last year's JCPS students in action: https://youtu.be/m6PFZ3cb9Js Dates: June 19-22 and June 26-29 (must
How to Overcome the Fear of Starting a New Business in Johnston County, NC
If you're thinking of starting a business in Johnston County, NC, ZenBusiness can help! It’s intimidating to start a new business. You may have doubts about whether your business will be successful or whether you have what it takes to be a successful business owner. If you're thinking of starting a business in Johnston County, NC, here are some tips on how to overcome the fear that comes with starting a new business. Calculating Startup Costs One of the first steps in starting a new business is
JOCO WORKS 2022 Sparks Career Interests for Eighth-Grade Students
Launched in 2019, the event was virtual for the last two years, this being the first year since the pandemic it was held face-to-face again. More than 3,000 eighth-grade students of Johnston County Public Schools attended JOCO WORKS 2022. Students were taken to JCC in Smithfield where students had the opportunity to connect with more than 40 local industries, including Grifols, NC Department of Transportation, and Novo Nordisk. Novo Nordisk, one of the largest employers in Johnston County, was the
Business Owners: Can You Benefit From a Business Coach?
Running a business can be tough! Steering a business successfully through the inevitable challenges and obstacles can feel overwhelming. If you're a business owner who's aware you're in need of some additional support, inspiration, or skills to make your life easier and your business better, have you considered a business coach? Business coaches are experts in the techniques needed to run a business successfully. Ideally, they have sector-specific experience as well as experience in managing significant
Teacher Assistant of the Year rewarded for good works
Johnston County Public Schools Teacher Assistant Chellie Cherry from West Smithfield Elementary was named the 2022 Teacher Assistant of the Year. The reason is crystal clear. A dedicated employee of Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) for nearly 30 years, she has spent twenty-two of those years as a teacher assistant, an amazing feat in and of itself. The cherry on top is that she is a teacher assistant of exceptional students. A native of Johnston County and a graduate of
2022 Johnston County Teacher of the Year is Homegrown Success
Four Oaks Elementary third grade teacher Jennifer Beninate was named the 2022 Johnston County Teacher of the Year at the annual Flame for Learning Award banquet on April 26. Beninate is the epitome of a teacher, which by definition is someone who imparts knowledge and enlightens. It’s immediately obvious that teaching is her calling. She draws inspiration from her idol Mary Poppins and speaks to her students lovingly and calmly. “Teaching is just a way I get to be Mary Poppins every day,” she
JCPS TA of the Year is Chellie Cherry, West Smithfield Elementary
Johnston County Public Schools teacher assistant Chellie Cherry from West Smithfield Elementary was named the 2022 Teacher Assistant of the Year at their organization's annual banquet. Teacher Assistants work alongside teachers to give students additional attention and instruction. Darrick McNeill is the Principal of West Smithfield Elementary. Cherry’s coworkers said that she is beyond deserving of the Teacher Assistant of the Year award, and is an integral part of the West Smithfield Elementary
Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 88 donates 500 book bags to JCPS
Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 88 donates 500 book bags to JCPS Written By: Robin Koppen, JCPS Communication Specialist SMITHFIELD, NC - The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #88 (FOP 88) bought and donated 500 backpacks to help children in Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS). Members of the FOP 88 worked alongside JCPS school social workers, school counselors, student advocates, school nurses, assistant principals, and some central office staff to fill the bags on Thursday, Mar. 17, at the
Celebrating the Voices and Passions of Local FarmHers
Smithfield, N.C. -- The Junior Women's League of Smithfield, in partnership with the Johnston County Farm Bureau Young Farmer & Rancher program and JoCo Grows Agriculture Committee will host Ask A Farm(HER), a local farmer Q&A panel featuring female farmers from Johnston County on Monday, February 7, 2022 from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m at Johnston County Ag Center. The purpose of the Q&A panel is to give Johnston County citizens an opportunity to hear farmers discuss the issues of importance to
LEADERSHIP JOHNSTON LAUNCHES CLASS OF 2022
SMITHFIELD, NORTH CAROLINA, January 15, 2022— A fully engaged Leadership Johnston program returns to Johnston County this year! The eleven-month program is designed for those who want to learn more about the county while developing and refining leadership skills. Through a variety of personal growth opportunities, individuals will gain a more in-depth understanding of the many facets of Johnston County, build crisis leadership and change management skills, and learn the skills necessary for effectively
Popular eBooks and Digital Audiobooks Available Free 24/7 From Johnston County Affiliated Libraries
Readers can use the award-winning Libby app to enjoy digital books on any device! As people increasingly read and listen to books on their smartphone or tablet, they’re discovering one of the best resources is their local public library. The Public Library of Johnston County and Smithfield (PLJCS) and its affiliated branches are excited to announce that starting October 4th, 2021, patrons with an active library card in good standing can borrow a wide selection of popular digital eBooks and audiobooks free
JCC Offering Free Workshop for Underemployed and Unemployed
Johnston County Schools - Selma Middle welcomes 12 new educators
Selma Middle welcomes 12 new educators Selma Middle School has welcomed 12 new educators to its halls for the 2015-2016 school year. Joining the team are Tabitha Ammons, Alexander Burgess, Samantha Determan, Patricia Ann Leitner, Michael Llaury, Cynthia Markham, Shawna Marie Phillips, Emily Shelton, Brandon Sullivan, Aaron Tipping, Chrystal Trammell, and Kimberly Whipple. Kimberly Whipple will be joining the fifth grade team at Selma Middle. She is a graduate of California University and Edinboro University
Breeden and Sawrey join JCC trustees, Daniels is reappointed
Johnston Community College welcomed two new trustees and reappointed another at its July board meeting. Jonathan Breeden of Clayton is an attorney in the Cleveland community and helps clients in the areas of family law, criminal defense, estate matters, and contracts. Breeden earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from N.C. State University and his law degree from Campbell University. He is also a member of the Greater Cleveland Athletic Association Board of Directors and Crossroads
Smithfield-Selma Chamber of Commerce recognizes local SuperStar Teachers
The Education Committee of the Greater Smithfield-Selma Area Chamber of Commerce honored seven local elementary school teachers on November 3 at its semi-annual Semester SuperStars Luncheon at the Sleep Inn & Suites in Smithfield. These teachers were nominated by their principals and recognized as outstanding educators in the Smithfield-Selma area. The teachers were given a plaque and a bag full of items from Chamber members. A similar luncheon will be held in the spring for outstanding middle and high
Johnston Community College Performing Arts announces 25th Anniversary Concert Series
The Performing Arts at Johnston Community College is proud to announce the 25th Anniversary Concert Series line-up. Season tickets are currently on sale and individual tickets will go on sale August 5th. Tickets may be purchased by calling the JCC Box Office at (919) 209-2099 or by visiting www.jccperformingarts.com<http://www.jccperformingarts.com>. Patrons wishing to purchase 3 or more shows may do so as season ticket holders. Discounts are offered for 3+ shows, military personnel, students, and
JCC Medical Office Student is Academic Excellence Winner
After 18 years of working in the airline industry, Margaret Raynor decided to retire in 2005. She tried several different jobs over the next six years, but she still wasn’t fully satisfied. “One day my husband and I were sitting around talking, and he suggested I go back to school and pursue a career in the medical field,” Raynor of Smithfield recalled. “At first, I didn’t think that was a good idea, because of my age. I was thinking someone my age would have a hard time focusing, concentrating on school