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 revealed at the event. The other two finalists were Laura Lasater and Justin Lee.

A first year educator, Johnson was thrilled to receive the honor of being named Outstanding First Year Teacher of the Year. “This award means a lot to me, because it is a reflection of my love and hard work that I put towards my students,” Johnson said. “I come in everyday with a positive attitude hoping to leave a lasting impact on them.” In addition to the award, Johnson received $500 from Horace Mann.

Johnson is characterized by her peers as a passionate and interactive teacher who loves what she does, and loves the people she does it for; the children.

Originally from Columbus County, she began working with JCPS at the start of the 2022-2023 school year. Johnson earned a bachelor's degree in political science from North Carolina State University, and a master’s degree in management information systems from North Carolina Central University.

During the event JCPS named two semifinalists, Laura Lasater and Justin Lee. Lasater is a first grade teacher at Four Oaks Elementary and an inspiration to her students and fellow staff. As a Career and Technical Education teacher at Four Oaks Middle, semifinalist Justin Lee positively impacts the lives of all those he comes into contact with on a daily basis, especially the students.

JCPS is proud of every teacher that was nominated, and thanks them for their hard work in the classroom each day. 
 

Madavia Johnson, a teacher at McGee’s Crossroads Elementary, received Johnston County Public Schools Outstanding First Year Teacher of the Year award.  

 

The three finalists for the Outstanding First Year Teacher of the Year are (from left) Justin Lee, Madavia Johnson, and Laura Lasater.